No person can replace a dog’s owner, and that day – Tonka and Little P were left shattered.
These two remarkable Pitties lost their best friend, their human, Kris, in a tragic hiking accident in Colorado. After losing his footing on a cliff, Kris and his dogs fell to the bottom of the canyon.
Miraculously, the dogs survived the fall, but their hearts were crushed upon realizing that Kris would not return. For the first time in years, Tonka and his brother, Little P, found themselves alone, comforting each other and clinging to hope.
Tragic Loss
For Kris, his dogs, Tonka and Little P, were more than pets—they were his family. The trio was inseparable, filling their days with adventures and laughter. However, a fateful hiking trip altered their lives forever.
Joined by Kris’s friend Mark, they embarked on what was meant to be an invigorating hike in Colorado. After losing their way and spending two desperate days in the wilderness, they tried to descend a canyon to access water. It was during this descent that Kris tragically slipped, causing him and his dogs to plummet to the bottom. Kris died upon impact, while the dogs sustained severe fractures and injuries.
“During the descent, Kris was trying to ensure his dogs’ safety, holding onto Tonka with Little P by his side. Unfortunately, he lost his footing, and all three fell to the canyon’s base,” reported Mr. Bones & Co. on Facebook.
After the accident, the dogs were initially taken to a local shelter in Colorado. Unable to bear the thought of leaving them, Mark intervened, doing everything within his power to transport Tonka and Little P to Kris’s family in New York.
Upon hearing their heart-wrenching story, the organization Mr. Bones & Co. stepped in to assist. Kris’s parents were overwhelmed by the situation and could not manage the dogs’ medical expenses on their own. The organization quickly took charge, ensuring that Tonka and Little P received the best possible care.
The Road to Recovery
It was a challenging journey filled with numerous obstacles, but Tonka and Little P proved to be resilient. Despite their age, they made remarkable progress in their recovery.
Gradually, they regained their ability to walk, though their hearts remained heavy with grief. They profoundly missed Kris and the life they once shared.
Tonka, particularly expressive, communicated his emotions through howling. It seemed as though he was attempting to reach out to his late owner whenever he felt lonely and in need of comfort.
Separated for the first time ever, Tonka and Little P were placed in different foster homes to facilitate their recovery. Crysti, Kris’s cousin, and her family took in Little P post-surgery, while Tonka was cared for elsewhere. Although the separation was difficult, it was necessary for their healing.
Off to a Pawfect Home
After a lengthy recovery, Mr. Bones & Co. declared that Tonka and Little P were ready for adoption. The news of their availability spread quickly, and within days, they received over 200 applications from prospective adopters nationwide, demonstrating the profound impact of their story.
The selection process was rigorous, but ultimately, a perfect home was found for the brothers. Brandon and Heilea, a couple who were first in line to adopt, were chosen to be their new parents.
On the day of their adoption, Tonka and Little P were reunited, and their joy was palpable. “We are ecstatic to announce that Tonka and Little P are home with their wonderful new parents, Heilea and Brandon,” celebrated the team at Mr. Bones & Co. on Facebook.
Friends and family gathered to witness their departure to the new home. During the farewell, a magical moment occurred: Tonka began howling, and Little P joined in. The scene was touching, as if both dogs were singing in honor of Kris, signaling to him that they would be alright forever.
A New Chapter Begins
With their new family, Tonka and Little P started a new chapter filled with love and adventures, mirroring the life they had with Kris. Brandon and Heilea ensured that the dogs continued to enjoy hikes and travels, creating countless new memories.
Sadly, after enjoying a wonderful life in their new home, Tonka passed away. The family mourned the loss of their beloved pet, grateful for the joyous years they shared. “You were a loving big brother. If dogs held Broadway musicals, your name would be in flashing lights. Cheeky and full of theatrics. Most importantly, you were family,” his owners expressed in a touching Instagram post.
Though his presence is missed, Tonka’s spirit remains alive in the hearts of Little P and the family. And for Little P, the memories of his older brother will forever be cherished.
