Dona came into our family already as an adult girl. Volunteers found her; she was near death. Dona had been in an illegal kennel, and her teeth had been filed down so she couldn’t defend herself, but despite that, she was a kind dog, always kissing everyone. When we were taking Dona, people told us, “Staffords are a dangerous breed, and she lived in such conditions, what if she attacks?” But we took the risk and didn’t regret it — she was very sweet, kind, and obedient. Bite? No. But to lick someone until they faint? Yes. 🙂

She loved riding in the car; as soon as you opened the garage, she was already sitting by the door. In winter, she slept in the warmest spot and constantly followed my mom, because that’s where you could always beg for treats.

She lived with us for about 5–6 years and became the favorite in the family. Then she got sick — cancer. Shots, IVs, medicines, tablets — she endured everything, accepted everything, never resisted. It was as if she understood everything, but the illness was stronger, despite all our efforts. And she left us. Her life hadn’t been very good, but maybe it will be better there. We miss her very much.

I saw about cremation on TikTok and that you could make a little stone from the ashes. And that’s what we did.