"Every Decision I Made, Every Effort, Was Driven by My Love and Dedication to Khan"

Kaori and Khan's story

Dear Nancy and Ken, 

My name is Kaori, and I live in Georgia. I started listening to your podcast shortly after we helped our beloved dog, Khan, cross the rainbow bridge on January 17, 2024. I’ve also read your book, which helped me a lot as I go through this journey called grief. Hearing the stories of others who’ve experienced pet loss, along with your insightful commentary, provided a comforting space to grieve. Khan’s story is one I’d love to share, hoping it resonates with others navigating similar heartbreak. You are more than welcome to share his story on your show.

Forever in Our Hearts: A Story of Love and Loss with Our Mastiff, Khan 

Meeting Khan: 

Khan’s story begins months before his arrival on this earth, a time when my husband and I were residing in Japan. As a native of the country, I had made a home there with my American husband, who was stationed for his work as a military contractor. We had married in Japan a couple of years prior and found contentment in each other’s company. In early 2016, as my husband’s contract neared its end, he expressed an unwavering desire p to welcome a BIG dog into our lives. A giant dog, akin to a horse in size, one that could serve as our guardian, confidant and cherished family member. 

In May of that year, my husband returned to the US while I awaited my visa. One day, he excitedly called to announce that he had acquired a puppy! A Mastiff puppy, to be exact. Having never heard of Mastiffs before, I searched the breed on Google. Accustomed to the charm of Labradors or Golden Retrievers with their endearing “cute” faces, the images of adult Mastiffs that filled my screen did not align with my expectations. Furthermore, my husband had bestowed upon him the name “Khan,” inspired by the formidable Shere Khan from the Jungle Book, I couldn’t shake the notion that this dog would exude a strong masculine presence, appealing to individuals who embody traditional masculine traits.