In Memoriam: Dr. Keith de la Cruz

I saw him less than two weeks ago. My Border Collie/Springer Spaniel mix, Jib, was having some GI issues. Keith was his usual self — funny, thorough, caring. On June 30, he’d helped us say goodbye to Jack, who had suffered an increasing series of neurological issues that were beyond anyone’s ability to roll back. And it was in our maximum moment of pain that Keith was at his very best — and he knew what we were going through, because he’d recently lost his own beloved furry friend as well.

Earlier this week, Keith left this world. I don’t have all of the details yet, but one thing I do know: I loved this man like a brother. He wasn’t simply the vet who cared for my dogs. He was my friend, and I treasured every interaction I had with him because he was one of the warmest, kindest and most caring human beings I’ve known in my life. This world is a better place for Keith de la Cruz having lived in it, and I cannot get my mind around the fact that I will not see him again alive in this life.

My deepest condolences to the staff of AtlasVet, Keith’s family and loved ones. My wife Robin and I are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.