Remembering Sadie Jane Fromhold-Knox-Cunningham

Sadie Jane Fromhold-Knox-Cunningham (SayP, Sadie P Nut, PNut Butt, James, Sadie James, Toofless gurl, Toofies, and many more nicknames), a spirited and loving rescue pup passed away peacefully on October 20, 2024 at 12:20pm EST in her home in Cincinnati, Ohio surrounded by her parents and fur siblings with the assistance of Angel's Paws.

She is survived by her parents, Stephanie Knox and Derek Cunningham, fur siblings Pink Floyd, Penny Lane, Chadwick T'Challa and Leon Pearl, her Aunt Jenna and Uncle David, fur cousins Loki, River, Winston and Slim Jim, beloved Papaw Steve (Val) and Papa Marc (Kelly). She is preceded in death by her fur brothers Leo Hamilton and PeeWee.

Born on or around June 14, 2010, Sadie lived 4 years of life that remain unknown to her parents. She was found as stay dog #461 in Walnut Hills on May 30, 2014 and after many attempts to find her family were made, was put up for adoption at the SPCA in Cincinnati (now known as Cincinnati Animal Care) and adopted by her mom and their soul bond was established.

Sadie lived a full and adventurous life. Her early days were spent going everywhere her mom went, whether it was work, the store or a friend or family member's home, Sadie was always by her side. She had the ability to unite dog and cat lovers alike, with many cat lovers saying how they'd love to have a dog like Sadie.

Sadie was well traveled, visiting 10 states and taking many road trips to vacation with her parents in the mountains, at the beach or the woods. She loved to go "bye-bye" and was always alert, awake and standing on the center console acting as the navigator for all adventures, even a 14 ½ hour drive to Florida. Just the day before her passing, she enjoyed a long ride around the city with her parents and stood strong on that center console, even though she had grown weak.

Her 10 ½ years recused can be characterized by her vivacious energy, resilient nature, and deep empathy for those around her. Known for her boundless affection and her ability to connect with everyone she met. Sadie rarely knew a stranger and when she did, there was always a reason. Her discernment of people was impeccable, which kept her mom safe for many years.

Sadie enjoyed all foods, especially baked broccoli, frozen raspberries, pretzel sticks and anything the nearest human was snacking on. She was known for mischievous moments, including but not limited to digging in trash cans, breaking into the dog food container and chewing socks and underwear. Her favorite hobbies included sleepovers with her Papaw, having her hair blown dry, chasing squirrels, long walks to sniff everything she could possibly find, chewing her beloved blue ball or an antler, and following her parents closely around the house. Her role in her family was the protector, always on guard, watching and listening so her fur siblings and parents could rest. It was not uncommon for her to be the last one to fall asleep at night, as she always made sure her family was resting before she could sleep peacefully.

Sadie was a true friend and companion. Her presence brought joy and comfort to all who knew her, and her memory will be cherished forever. Sadie's legacy of love and companionship will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

Her family would like to take the time to thank a few special people who were crucial in Sadie thriving till her very last day.

To Dr. Caitlin Lawrence with Dearborn County Animal Clinic who first noted an abnormality in Sadie's heart, diagnosing her with a heart murmur that required specialty evaluation. Her care, concern and dedication to her craft with quick action saved Sadie's life and gave her nearly 6 years of full, happy and healthy years with her family. Dr. Lawrence loved and treated Sadie as her own and was always finding ways to keep her as healthy and happy as possible. Thank you, Dr. Lawrence for all you have done and continue to do for all animals.

To Dr. Wright and the Cardiology team at MedVet Cincinnati who provided 5 ½ years of personalized and targeted care for Sadie's many conditions (mitral and tricuspid valve endocardiosis with recurrent congestive heart failure, atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, pulmonary hypertension, first degree atrioventricular block and complete nasopharyngeal collapse, the latter which was the primary cause of her drastic change in health). Dr. Wright loved Sadie as her own and always advised and guided her parents to make decisions based on her comfort rather than their own convenience. Her dedication to Sadie inspired her parents to rise to the occasion and be full-time caregivers in a hospice setting to Sadie in her final 6 months. Thank you, Dr. Wright and team for all you do to give ailing animals a chance at a quality life.

To Liesl, Sadie's honorary Aunt and personal vet tech on call. From day 1, Liesl helped Sadie's mom adjust to being a first time dog parent, giving advice, feedback and encouragement when the days felt long and difficult. Liesl provided Sadie's parents constant support and a perspective that was both clinical and personal, to assist in making every decision related to her care, right down to her passing. It is her parents wish that everyone have a friend and support system like Liesl, as she made the highs that much higher and the lows more bearable. Thank you Liesl for the unwavering support and love you gave to Sadie and her family.

To Corinne, honorary Aunt, roommate, pet sitter and friend. She provided Sadie with love as if she were her own and took her role as a caregiver seriously. Corinne acted quickly when Sadie showed distress and was able to facilitate her receiving palliative care until her parents could return home and make the difficult choice to let her pass in peace. It is a gift in and of itself to have someone you know will stand in the gap for your pet and their needs when you are away. Thank you, Corinne, for the gift you gave to Sadie and her family.

In lieu of flowers, gifts or cards, her family kindly asks that you use your time, talents and resources to change the life of an animal in need through the links below:

Donate, foster or adopt with Cincinnati Animal Care: https://cincinnatianimalcare.org/

Donate to Angel's Paws ministry Angel's Watch to allow families with financial burdens to say goodbye to their loved ones from the comfort of their own home: https://www.angelspaws.com/ways-to-help

Donate to AVMF REACH Program to support families in being able to afford access to specialty care at places such as MedVet: https://www.avmf.org/grants-and-scholarships/reach-animal-care-program/