Nikki was heartbroken after the loss of her beloved dog, Trixie.
Trixie, an older American Bully, was adopted by Nikki when she was eight years old. Over the next four years, this sweet senior dog became Nikki’s constant companion and soulmate.
During her golden years, Trixie was showered with love from her family.
When the time came for her to pass on, she sent a message to her family to aid in their healing journey.
This poignant tale revolves around love and recovery.
A Gift from Above
After Trixie’s passing, Nikki and her brother took some supplies back to the shelter where they adopted her.
As they navigated the crowded shelter, one particular dog stood out: she was silent amidst the barking.
This lovely mid-sized chocolate dog, Rena, sat in her kennel waiting for some affection.
“She pressed herself against the cage, eagerly seeking affection,” Nikki shared with GeoBeats Animals. “Trixie was the only dog in the shelter who remained quiet.”
Rena’s resemblance to Trixie was striking, and they felt an immediate bond.
The chocolate dog was in desperate need of care.
As a stray in the DC area, Rena found her way to the shelter. She was adopted but tragically, after a year, her owner passed away.
Her previous owners tried to take her back, but due to housing restrictions, Rena returned to the shelter, where she struggled to find a new home.
Eventually, she was moved to a shelter in New Jersey, where Nikki met her.
“I believe she came into our lives because of Trixie,” Nikki reflected, certain that her departed pet guided Rena into their path.
Initially, they planned to foster Rena temporarily, still in mourning, but they quickly fell for her.
Love Reborn
The moment they introduced Rena into their home, she brought incredible joy.
“She exhibits many traits Trixie had, like her fondness for tennis balls, rolling in the grass, and basking in the sunshine. I truly feel that Trixie led us to this dog and is watching over us. I saw this as a sign to adopt this sweet girl permanently.” Nikki expressed on Instagram.
Rena is a playful three-year-old, a joyful contrast to Trixie’s laid-back nature.
This lively little companion was just what this heartbroken family needed.
She is an adorable “chocolate cow” with the most charming floppy ears.
“It’s curious, Trixie had specific outdoor spots she loved. Occasionally, I see Rena linger near those same places, sniffing about,” Nikki noted.
As a lively pup spreading happiness, Rena naturally draws towards individuals who require her love, just as her family needed her to heal their sadness.
One day, Nikki decided to look up the meaning of Rena’s name, which brought tears to her eyes.
“While Googling this foster pup’s name, I was overjoyed to discover it shared the same meaning as Trixie’s name…’joy’,” Nikki mentioned in her Instagram post.
The astounding parallels between two unconnected dogs, including their names’ meanings, conveyed the message they longed for – Trixie had sent Rena their way.
Dealing with the loss of a cherished pet can be a tough journey through grief.
It’s important to show kindness to yourself as you work through this challenging period, allowing space for healing and acceptance.
