Lightning Bug

2011 – 2026

Remembering Lightning Bug .

Remembrances

Dakota James

Pet Parent

We believe in honoring the lives of pets

Here at Best Friends, animals have such a special place in our lives. We honor those pets we’ve loved and those who need our help today. At Best Friends, we keep pets in our hearts

Remembrances

Leaving a personal story, memory, or words of support for a pet’s family is a heartfelt way to pay tribute and provide comfort. As part of your remembrance, we also invite you to leave a virtual token along with your words — similar to our tradition here at the Sanctuary of leaving stones, beloved items, or small toys on the graves of cherished animals.

Leave Your Remembrance

Lightning Bug may have been a previous mafia giant in a past life, but in this one he was never seen without Dakota! Through thick and thin there have never been a more loyal player one and two duo! Anyone who met Lightning out in the wild knew his kind heart and love of connection was something you could feel as much as his big licks and sinky breath! He was the bestest dog with the most amount of love for his daddo as any dog could have! After a long 9 years of friendship and a chance encounter that made Dakota a dad to this doggo life was made infinitely brighter with Lightning bug in it! I know he'll seek us out in the next one, as much as we will do our best to find him! Love you bug!

Kylie Marie

July 17, 2026

Report Remembrance

Share the memory of your pet

By sharing this pet’s memorial page, you’re helping to keep the memory of a beloved companion close — and you’re helping others understand the place pets forever inhabit in our hearts.

woman at Angel Rest sitting beneath a tree with her dog

Create your own pet memorial

Would you like to create a pet memorial to pay tribute to your special animal companion? We’ll guide you through this simple process.

Create Your Memorial

Watch a memorial blessing

You are invited to join us the last Thursday of each month at 4 p.m. MT as we remember the lives of pets we have loved and lost. For those who are not able to attend in person, a video recording of each blessing is posted soon thereafter online.

Watch a blessing

Show your love and support

You can let someone grieving the loss of a pet know that you care. Whether you send calming wind chimes or a sympathy card, your gift can be a source of light for someone during a difficult time.

Find memorial gifts