Moki
Date of Passing: 12/25/2025
Message to Moki: Moki's ability to handle some really tough things life handed him and still be able to learn to trust and love and LIVE are absolutely the things we will cherish the most about Moki. He was truly a one-in-a-million dog.
Tell us about Moki: Moki came from Chicago Animal Care and Control. He had a tough start, and was surrendered by his owner. As he was a behavioral risk, he did not have a chance to make it out alive. I volunteered there at the time, and did take him out and handle him (which went very well). I (along with another wonderful volunteer, Monique) advocated for him and were able to find a rescue able to take a chance on working with him (thus his name, a combination of MOnique and KElly, which we switched to KI). When it was finally noted that he could be trained, but not placed safely (he was fearful and liked to protect his food), the options became humane euthanasia or I could adopt him if I signed waivers releasing all liability. Home he came with my husband and I. To say we learned a lot is an understatement. We learned better dog handling skills, patience, and we all (we had 4 dogs at the time) learned to live in a "gated" community. We traveled a lot by car, and Moki became a cross-country traveler with us! Watching Moki blossom knowing he was safe was such a gift. We've mostly had Siberians, and we thought we understood stubborn until our Moki chow chow came to us. And we know that stubbornness and his strong will is what helped him to live to 15! Though we did not get to spend all of his life with him, the life we did (10 years) was a true gift that will never be forgotten. Though I write through tears, I would not be who I am without the gift of Moki in our lives (nor would my husband). I am eternally grateful to his furry little soul. Until we see each other again Moki...