Topaz Pickering

1995? – 2012

“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.”
– Josh Billings

On December 13, 2012, after 17+ long years of life, we finally said goodbye to our family dog. Although it was a rocky start after rescuing him from the streets of Queens, he quickly became a true member of the family, bringing countless memories of joy and laughter to our home! He was there for my graduations from middle and high school, to watch me grow up, and stood by us during my grandparents’ passings and the loss of countless cats and other pets. When I went off to college, he stuck by my mom’s side, keeping her company as her constant, trusted companion for many years to come. He was even there to approve of my husband and join in our wedding rehearsal!

Though Topaz wasn’t actually a Brussels Griffon himself, he was a true lover of monkeys. When my husband and I adopted our griffs, he readily accepted them into the family, playing with them on family gatherings whenever we were back in town. Then in May of this year, my mom decided to adopt a monkey of her own (Bo). Even though Topi was by now getting up there in years, he willingly took Bo on as his own brother, and in turn, Bo loved Topi as well.

While Topi has now departed this earth, I know that his spirit will live on in our hearts, as well as with the many lives he touched in his years with us. He was a cherished pet and he will be missed.

Sarah Cleary