This week’s episode is a little different.
Normally on Golden Whiskers, I’m talking feline wellness. Interviewing experts. Sharing tips to help your cat live a longer, healthier, happier life.
Today… it’s just me.
And I’m talking about a dog.
My sister Jill’s golden retriever, Biscuit, unexpectedly passed away at the beginning of February. He was almost 13 years old.
Even though he wasn’t my dog, the grief has hit me harder than I expected.
So this episode is a celebration.
A reflection.
And a thank-you to a dog who lived with what I swear was a permanent smile.
🐾 Episode Snapshot
Why grief doesn’t follow “ownership rules”
What made Biscuit so unforgettable
The contagious power of joy
Why you should never age out of play
How animals model the way we could live
Biscuit had what felt like 24/7 joy.
He was almost 13, but still had full puppy energy. Running. Playing. Smiling. Getting excited over Christmas gifts like it was the greatest day ever (because to him, it was).
He instantly loved everyone he met.
Not just tolerated.
Loved.
If he saw a human and a dog, he gravitated toward the human. He made strangers feel special. He made rooms lighter. He made everyone smile.
And he did it without trying.
He didn’t overthink.
He didn’t hold grudges.
He didn’t wake up wondering if he was enough.
He just showed up… and loved.
📘 Recommendations for Cat Owners (and Dog Lovers)
Even though this episode centers on Biscuit, the lessons apply to every animal in our lives — including our cats.
Here are a few takeaways I’m personally reflecting on:
1. Joy is a decision.
Animals don’t fake joy — they embody it. What would it look like to lean into joy more intentionally?
2. Energy is contagious.
The way you show up affects the room. Biscuit proved that daily.
3. Love fast.
Don’t hesitate. Don’t overthink it. Lead with warmth.
4. Don’t age out of play.
Whether you’re 3 or 13 — or 53 — play keeps you young. Play keeps your pets young too.
5. Grief doesn’t require ownership.
You don’t have to be the primary pet parent to feel loss deeply. If you’re hurting over someone else’s pet, that’s valid.
🐱 What I’m Trying With Niko and Milo
After recording this episode, I found myself watching Niko and Milo a little more closely.
They play constantly. They love each other without conditions. They greet me like I’ve been gone for a year even if I just took the trash out.
I’m trying to pause more.
Be present when they’re playful instead of distracted.
Lean into gratitude instead of rushing past it.
I’m trying to embody a little more of Biscuit’s energy in my own life…
Permanent smile.
Full-body tail wag.
Love first. Ask questions later.
❤️ Final Thought
My sister Jill and her husband Dennis gave Biscuit an incredible life. Every time I saw them together, I thought: They are amazing dog parents.
And he gave it right back.
They were perfect for each other.
I was lucky to be Uncle Scott.
If there’s an animal in your life right now, hug them. Kiss them. Take the extra walk.
And if you’ve lost one, thank them for what they taught you.
They leave the lessons behind.
And sometimes, those lessons are exactly what we need.
