Harley

March 15, 2012 - February 24, 2022

Dear Harley,

We love you. We will love you forever.

You’ve lived a life most dogs would envy. Though, we were the lucky ones. You started your life in Miami, FL where you caught they eye of Fabio and Greg. They didn’t stand a chance, you stole their hearts instantly. When Maria saw you, that is what love at first sight is all about. You became a Fiorentino. 

Then, you moved to Canada, already a world traveller at such a young age! You barely weighed enough to pee in the grass, Fabio had to flatten areas for you. Your paws were so little and your fur was soft. You even had a nose job to help you breathe better. You were loved, you were family. 

You loved playing with your skateboard, and your favourite, the soccer ball; even the pros couldn’t keep up with you! You loved going in the pool but only to the second step at most to drink some water. But we got you a kiddy pool to enjoy and you liked that very much. 

We have to mention all your cousins, furry and human, that you were so lucky to have, Kash (Uncle Tom), Kilo & K-Lo (Aunty Sherry), Winston (Uncle Joe & Aunty Raffaella, Mario & Sabina), Zeus (Aunty Carina, who gives the best cuddles btw) and Theo (Ariana & Steven). Then there’s Sophie, your BFF and girlfriend. You two had a special bond, spending the most time together. You shared so many memories together and good times at the dog park, car rides, beach, romantic dinners and cuddles. She will miss you so much.

You ate like a king, fresh ground turkey, sweet potatoes and peas. You loved bacon. Maria’s Kitchen was your favourite spot to eat. It was always nothing but the best for you. You loved sweet potatoes, liver treats, cheese and dulce de leche ice cream. Maria and Greg would let you lick their bowls and you were always so excited. 

Speaking of excited, you always have the best welcome tap dances when you saw anyone you loved or heard the words “car ride”, “dog park” or “bed time”. You would wiggle your butt and toss your head from side to side and pick your feet up and your nails would tap the floor. And when you’d lay on your back for rubs, all we have to say is, ”Sherry”.

You were fortunate to be blessed with your cousins by Father Sam on October 4, 2020. That’s what you were, blessed, and us for knowing you. 

You had two homes, your primary residence at Kinkora and your second with Fabio and Kate. You loved being close to Kate, especially through her work day, following her around the house and sleeping in your office bed. On sunny days you’d follow the sun through the house, your fur golden and bright.  

You had a big personality, we’re very stubborn and a silly guy. We will never forget your barks and endless cries sounding like Chewbacca from Star Wars. Or how you would always goat Sophie into barking and causing a ruckus in the house.

Difficult doesn’t describe having to let you go. Our hearts are broken, but the cracks are how the light gets in. You will forever light up our lives. 

You were so lucky to have Dr. Wawryk at Southglen Veterinary Hospital who loved and cared about you so much. We will all take great comfort knowing you’ll be free from your pain. Thank you to Sunset Veterinary Care, and Dr. Liz for being so loving and kind to our sweet boy. The whole experience was respectful and comforting. 

As you walk over the rainbow bridge know we all love you. Your paw prints are forever on our hearts. Gone but never forgotten. You’ll always be our baby. We love you Harley, you’ve been so brave. Safe travels buddy. 

Love always,

Your family, The Fiorentino’s and extended family and friends, human and furry. 

(March 15, 2012-February 24, 2022. Harley would have been 10 this March so we celebrated with an early photo shoot to make him feel special.)