It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of the most beloved dog, Boomer TheDog Huffman (aka Boomer T Dog, Boomie, Boomerlicious, Boom Boom). Boomer is survived by her heart-broken mother, Lara, and her sister, Mal, who is probably happy that she is now an only dog. Her mom, however, is devastated, and will forever have a Boomer-shaped hole in her heart.

Boomer enjoyed de-squeaking and de-fluffing toys, playing keep-away because nothing made her happier than having a toy she thought YOU wanted, modeling for her photographer Mom, patrolling her backyard with her sister, and making sure nobody had fun without her present (aka the Fun Police).

Boomer wasn’t just any ordinary dog. She was a life saver. Boomer was a Christmas gift to her Mom from her now Ex. Boomer arrived in her Mom’s life when she was going through treatment for Stage 1 breast cancer and thyroid cancer. She kept her Mom company during chemotherapy, radiation, and multiple surgeries. There were many naps together.

After treatment ended for Stage 1 breast cancer, her Mom ended up suffering from debilitating depression. Boomer was her Mom’s anchor when life seemed hopeless and void of any happiness. When her Mom finally sought help, a therapist asked her what’s kept her from making a plan, the response was: “Boomer. I have to stick around for Boomer.” When nothing in life seemed worth living, her Mom had Boomer. 

Boomer’s greatest love was people. She absolutely loved everybody and everyone. Boomer had many honorary aunties who loved her fiercely. She never met another human being that she didn’t immediately love. Not once was she ever scared of going to the vet because all the vets and vet techs were her BFFs.

Her Mom is going to miss her dog shadow and canine garbage disposal when she cooked. Boomer loved cucumbers, bell peppers, bananas, everything. She was part lab, after all. She was the Goodest girl, the best. The fact that a large breed dog like Boomer made it to 13 is amazing and for that, her Mom will always be grateful but still believe there should have been more time.

If you feel inclined to honor Boomer, please make a donation to Senior Pet and Animal Rescue, a local non-profit in Pittsburgh dedicated to helping senior pets.

Until we meet again, Boomer. I will be running full speed toward you and Mom when it’s my time. My heart is broken.