Honoring Caesar's Life: Support for His Final Journey

Words have so much power. In this moment the depth of feelings and emotions are overwhelming. Instead of dwelling on the current pain being felt, I want to tell you all about the little magical being that is Caesar.

Caesar was born late August 2008. I was 19. My roommate at the time found an add in the paper for two puppies (Caesar and his brother) that were for sale as long as we drove 3 hours out of the cities to pick them up. From the moment we met, it was love at first sight. That night he laid inside my sweatshirt pocket the whole ride home. I can still remember the warmth and love I felt from him. Once we got to our apartment and let him into the grass he bound like a little bunny because the cut grass was too long for his tiny legs to walk in.

Although he never grew to be much bigger physically we soon came to find out how large his spirit was and the depth of his love and loyalty. He loved running through the grass, chasing squirrels, and getting into mischief—whether it was somehow climbing onto the kitchen island to eat just the toppings off a pizza (leaving the rest behind for us to find) or learning to tip over the trash can by using his body and the wall for leverage (until we had to weigh it down with bricks). He has always been on the edge of too smart for his own good.

From the moment our lives intertwined, we were inseparable. For 16 ½ years, Caesar has been by my side, filling my world with adventure, companionship, and boundless love. Together, we traveled, explored, and discovered new ways to take care of each other. He loved to stick his head out the car window and feel the air on his face. When we found him a doggie backpack, I would strap him facing forward on my chest during bike rides, letting the wind blow through his hair—something he absolutely loved. He has been part of every decision I’ve made, woven into the fabric of my life in ways I can’t begin to describe.

To those who had the joy of meeting Caesar, you know his personality is far bigger than his tiny body. His love for turkey and hamburgers is unmatched, and if you spent time with him, you undoubtedly felt the depth of love and loyalty he shared with those lucky enough to earn his trust (what an absolute blessing and honor to be able to connect with the wee lad in that way). From the bottom of our hearts, deep gratitude to all of you that loved and cared for Caesar. There were so many of you that were beautiful caretakers, guides and friends to this little guy. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

It breaks my heart to write this, but Caesar’s body is beginning to fail him. His arthritis has worsened over the past few years, and though CBD and other treatments helped extend his life and ease his pain, his condition has recently declined. Over the last six months, we introduced stronger pain medications, regular chiropractic visits, and herbal remedies, all of which gave him more time to enjoy his days with comfort.

Today, we had to rush to the veterinary ER. The vets believe he has a neurological disease causing severe pain in his neck and lower back, and he can no longer control his back legs. We knew this day was coming and have prayed and loved our way through it. Until now, his good days still outweighed the difficult ones, but the pendulum has shifted. He is in pain, and his body is telling us it’s time to let go so he can find peace.

Tomorrow at 10:30 AM, Caesar will be laid to rest at home, in front of the fire, surrounded by love. His body will then be cremated, and his urn will be returned to us, so he can remain with us at the altar. Though he will no longer be physically here, I know his spirit will always be with us.

This GoFundMe is to help cover the costs of his procedure, cremation, and today’s ER visit. Any support is deeply appreciated, but please do not feel obligated—Caesar wouldn’t want anyone to experience financial stress on his behalf. More than anything, we ask for your thoughts, prayers, and loving energy as Caesar transitions into his next great adventure. And for those of us still here, may we carry his love with us always.

Anything we raise over the amount asked will be donated to Mission Animal Hospital in Eden Prairie (they are a sliding scale vet that have been of great help during this process). The extra donations will help others in similar situations be able to get aid for their loved ones.

With love and gratitude,

Dan & Caesar