As we head into Thanksgiving, there’s so much to be grateful for — our health, our families, the comfort of a safe place to call home. This year, what I’m most grateful for is something far more personal, something that has shaped my heart for nearly 17 years: my dog, Cookie.
Cookie wasn’t just a pet. She was the sweetest, most loyal companion, the one who arrived in my life exactly when I needed someone the most. Through every chapter — the heartbreaks, the late nights, the photo shoots, the creative moments, empty nest period when my daughter, Sophie went off to college- on the west coast no less! Cookie — she was right there, at my side, every single day. Unconditionally loving and easy going with other dogs and people. She was the best traveler too! I am seriously, this dog was so well-trained and behaved. Better than any human or dog I know! I was lucky to have her for so long.
I never really thought about what it would mean to take care of an elderly dog, or a dog with an illness. During COVID, Cookie was diagnosed with renal cancer so I took a risk with the most amazing team of vets in New York and Florida, had her kidney removed and she was treated with IV fluids 2x week for 4 years. The only elder-care I was familiar with, was watching my mother take care of my father who suffered from Alzheimers. Cookie, was a lot of work but, I know that you take care of the ones you love as best as you can, and Cookie made that easy. She gave me more love, joy, and devotion that I never could have imagined, she was an emotional support dog to my family as well. The only day she ever disappointed me was the day she left — and even then, she let me know she was done, just like her, in her well behaved manor she waited for me to return from a trip to NY.
Cookie was a little Gerber model, she would pose for the camera, especially after a visit to the groomers. She'd wink and cock her head, she was a dog with a human soul. She inspired so much of what I do — including the Dog Tag Collection at Kelly Gerber Jewelry. I created those pieces so we can keep the ones we love close to our hearts, always. And I’ll keep Cookie close forever. My sweet Cookie Jar Gerber, you’ll be with me every day.
So this Thanksgiving, for all of you who are lucky enough to have your dogs beside you, give them an extra pat, an extra treat, and an extra kiss from me. Our time with them is never long enough, but it is always a gift. Treat yourself to a "Cookie" Tag.
Happy Thanksgiving!