Mya Pyper Mason

On November 20, 2015, my life changed forever when Mya came into this world, and it changed forever again on October 14, 2025 when she left it. Mya crossed over unexpectedly, and life hasn't been the same since. She was my sunshine, my best friend, my companion, my constant, my protector, my heart and my soul dog. There aren't words big enough for the love she gave or for the space her absence has left behind.

Every morning began with our ritual: I'd ask her if she had good dreams and then sing You Are My Sunshine. I always changed the last lyric to "please don't take my Mya away," and she'd thump her tail, lean in close, and ask for belly rubs and snuggles. The lyrics to that song, our bond, connection, and love are transcendent. I look for her signs, the little reminders that her energy is still wrapped around me. Mya carried me through so much as my service dog and I know she's still doing it, just in a different way.

Mya had a personality that was impossible not to adore. She had a little fake sneeze she would do whenever she wanted a baby carrot. It was her favorite 'treat'. She would pause, point her head to the fridge, then look at me and sneeze as to say, "Let's go mom, you know what I want."

She knew exactly, down to the minute, when it was time for her meals. She would tap her bowl with her nose, stare at me, and tilt her head in a little “come over here” motion. She would also nudge my hand every night at 9 o'clock sharp to tell me it was time for bed. She always rode in the front seat when we would get in the car. Rolling down the window with her paw so she could stick her head and right arm out. She truly thought she was human, and everyone else seemed to think so too. People constantly took photos and videos, smiling at the pure joy she radiated. Mya loved to place her paw on my arm as I drove, waiting for me to look at her, just so she could look right back.

When we'd go for coffee, she'd hop to the back seat and roll down that window too, staring at the barista to make sure her pup cup and dog bone were on their way. That same coffee shop gave me treats to leave on Mya's grave when they learned she had passed as she had left an impression on them as she did with everyone she met.

Even in passing, Mya brings smiles and helps others. We donated her medications, food, and supplies to Best Friends Animal Society so that other dogs could feel her love and generosity through the life she lived. Mya was and is the absolute best girl. My girl. My forever sunshine.

Mya… my love, losing you has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever felt. My heart still aches without you here.
Thank you for saving me, for loving me in the quiet ways only you could, and for the signs you still send. I think of you every day.

It’s hard to put into words what you meant to me — how you understood me, how you curled up beside me in the mornings while I drank my coffee on the front porch. I miss you resting yourself against my chest, reminding me I wasn’t alone, that I was safe.

You were never just a dog. You were light. You brought comfort, warmth, and understanding to everyone around you.

It’s been the privilege of my life to know and love you, Mya. I miss you so much and want you to know that my life was infinitely better because you existed. Until we meet again shine my love, shine. ✨️