Farewell, Smiley: A Triumph of Joy and Resilience, Inspiring Us All

Sadly, one of the happiest and most beloved faces in Canada has passed the rainbow bridge. After a three-month battle with cancer, Smiley, a blind golden retriever who spent the most of his 15 years working as a therapy  dog, was put to sleep.

The day before she said farewell to her friend, Smiley’s owner Joanne George said on Instagram, “It’s the only way to repay all he’s done for us all.” “We’ll release him tomorrow. He’s had it with it.

According to Global News, Smiley had consoled patients of all ages at the hospitals close to his home in Stouffville, Ontario, including elderly people in nursing homes, autistic youngsters, and patients of all ages. However, his supporters hail from all around the world.
Just ask his 200,000 Instagram followers.

Shepard, George’s son, will miss his “real-life stuffed animal” the most out of all of Smiley’s friends. Shepard visiting Smiley’s final burial site was one of the final pictures George shared after her dog passed away.

“A boy and his dog must part ways eventually,” she wrote. “Shepherd knows this pain he’s feeling is the result of loving another with all your heart. Like myself, he has no regrets. The pain is worth all he gave us.”

George had announced Smiley’s cancer diagnosis months prior on Facebook.

“Not easy to type this out … they found a mass/tumour on Smiley’s stomach and one on his liver,” she posted. “The dog who I thought would live forever doesn’t have much time left with us. We are obviously shocked and devastated. He has been so happy lately with extra pep in his step, so this is so hard to comprehend.”

CBC Toronto produced a film honoring the life of this remarkably kind dog, and thousands of Smiley admirers all across the world found it moving.

“With the passing of Smiley and so many people sending love and giving so much attention to this beautiful boy, it makes me believe that there are still some wonderful caring people in this world,” one commenter posted.

Smiley the dog wouldn’t want his friends to be depressed. To read a heartwarming rescue story that will make you smile again, click the icon below!