A Tribute To Shane

A Tribute to Shane: A Master Teacher in Emotional Intelligence

When Shane came into my life he was 14 years old, I had no idea he would become one of my greatest teachers. Shane was no ordinary dog—he was a shih tzu with a personality as bizarre and complex as any human I’ve ever met. His journey from animal control, where he had faced physical and emotional struggles, to the comfort of my home was one of resilience, trust, and profound lessons in connection.

I took the leap and put myself forward to bring Shane home. Little did I know that in doing so, I would also have to dismantle my own emotional barriers. Shane didn’t make it easy—he didn’t like to be messed with which when right from the go he needed eye drops everyday was not easy. His tough exterior required me to be unguarded and sincere. I had to trust that he would sense my intentions and know I only wanted the best for him.

Shane taught me to meet him on his terms. He wasn’t looking for pity—his resilience made that clear. Instead, he wanted to be understood and respected for who he was. I nicknamed him "Master Shen" because he truly embodied the wisdom of a teacher if you had the patience and openness to care, Shane would guide you in the art of emotional intelligence. The knowing of when to embrace and when to give space. Which areas are sensitive, how to try and be clearheaded in conveying you were on his side when it came time for difficult things like grooming. 

As the years went on, Shane came to fully know he was loved and cared for. He found joy in the simple routines of life, knowing that providing consistency for him would help with trust. The yard became his haven, and no matter the weather, he embraced it wholeheartedly. Whether it was sunny or flooded, Shane was in his element, splashing through puddles or performing his “old man hopping zoomies” with a spirit that defied his age.

Shane’s eccentricity was part of his charm. He didn’t always fit the mold of typical dog behavior, sometimes he seemed more cat like, but that only made him more special. He loved sitting by my feet while I painted, quietly sharing in my creative moments. That time together became our thing, a quiet ritual that brought us closer.

For the last four to five years of his life, it was my honor and privilege to be Shane’s guardian. Watching him find peace, joy, and trust in his later years was one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. He gave as much as he received, teaching me invaluable lessons in compassion, patience, and the beauty of connection across species. Lessons I take forward and use with other species I interact with. 

Rest easy, Master Shen. You were, and always will be, a furry, funny enigma. Thank you for everything.