In Memory of Kiba


May 1, 1989 - November 14, 2000

Our noble and gentle mascot Shiro y Kiba (which means "white fang" in Japanese), was such an important part of our lives. Kiba's mother was a pure wolf from Bear Country, a wildlife park east of Mount Rushmore. Her father was a friendly Alaskan Malamute.

kibayoung
Kiba was three weeks old when I first met her. Her little eyes had just opened, her ears stood up, she played hard with her siblings and fell asleep in my lap while I bottle fed them all. I knew she was to become my special girl. The image here shows little Kiba at four weeks old.

With a foot in two worlds, she was extremely shy with strangers, but secure and happy with her family members which included us, our parents, Kiska, several cats, two ferrets, and Lightning. In her entire life, she allowed fewer than 10 people to touch her. Many were drawn to her beauty, but she feared them as would a wild creature. Accommodating her secretive nature, we sought out remote destinations where contact with other humans would be minimal. We were honored to be graced with her stewardship during our life together.

kibabeach
Her end came quickly - a massive stroke while she slept. Her final hours were peaceful as her body shut down. When our veterinarian came into our home to administer the fatal dose, she slipped peacefully away while I held her in my arms. She was not afraid, which gave us peace.

For the rest of my life I will miss my sweet special friend. She has become a part of us that will never be forgotten. Walk in peace, my love. There is nothing to fear now. Your ancestors await you, as do your family who have gone ahead. We will meet again.

Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond's glint on snow,
I am the sunlight on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circled flight,
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there, I did not die.

Kiba now runs with her lifelong companion Kiska.