Churro went to be with Sam this morning. Churro was a beautiful black miniature Dachshund and was easily the most laid-back, affectionate dog you’ve ever met. Churro loved Sam and wrote him each summer when he went to Alaska. He sent him pictures of him being on a boat and fishing for the big ones! He was a source of entertainment and comfort and saw himself as a threat (albeit a mild one) to the bunnies on Whidbey Island, (in his dreams). Like the rest of his family, he loved to fish in Alaska, excited to welcome salmon (or even at the site of herring as bait). He was a well-traveled hound dog, logging 42 flights in one summer alone. Churro was loved not just by his family, but also by friends and thousands of strangers traveling through countless airports.

Churro loved to do therapy. He faithfully served with GT Dog in TX as the longest-serving therapy dog. He graduated from Therapy Pals in October of 2008 and faithfully served UBH (University Behavioral Hospital) until this year. In addition to his serving Therapy Pals, he also flew many times with his American Airline Pilot dad and entertained many people in the airports. One season, he made over forty-five trips with his dad. He was loved not just by family and friends, but also by thousands of strangers traveling through countless airports. When he wasn’t with his dad, Ken, he was with his mom, Nadine, who he adored. Churro was fifteen and a half years old when he joined Sam. His last visit to UBH was one where he could no longer hear people but he never stopped wagging his tail. Churro made close to three hundred visits during his tenure with Therapy Pals. Churro was also well known at the USCGA attending every Parents Weekend, rugby games, and such. 

He was loved by many and he gave joy to many, many more. Churro, you go play with Sam as you earned your wings and you made your mark on this world. There will be many who will never forget you. You did a good job! You rest and play now knowing you will be loved forever.