“Athena was my beautiful 10-year-old German Shepherd. She was kind, intelligent, protective, courageous, loving, and calm—truly the peace in the middle of our chaos. She was an incredible “nanny dog” and adored her human kids (ages 10, 9, 7, and 6). She loved going to cheer practice with the girls and their dad, and she took her job with our chickens, cats, and other dogs very seriously. Car rides and walks were her absolute favorite.
She never complained about anything. We had no idea she was sick; even at her health visits she was given a clean bill of health. She passed on 10/28/25 from fluid in her lungs and abdomen caused by a mass and possible abdominal cancer.
I pray that her donation brings answers and helps other pups in the future. She was the best and most loyal girl I’ve had in my 32 years—better than any human companion, I joke… but only partially. Our family is heartbroken, but we are grateful that our girl has the chance to teach and help the dogs who come after her.” – Jessika Crooker
We at the Pain Innovations Research Laboratory are deeply grateful for the generosity of Athena’s family and for allowing her legacy to live on through her remarkable contributions to science and education. Her gift will help advance research, inspire learning, and make a lasting difference in the lives of both animals and people. May she rest in peace.
If you are interested in donating to the Rainbow Bridge Memorial (for research and education), please contact April Hardison at ahardison@ufl.edu.