Bella Masucci-Benevides

2009 - 2025

It is with profound sadness that we say goodbye to our dear Bella as she has crossed the rainbow bridge on Saturday April 26, 2025. Bella would have been 16 years old in a few months' time. Bella had many nicknames over the years including Fouffers, Boneca, Bellzie, Cuddle-monster, and French-fry to a name a few. She was the daughter to proud dog-daddy's Jon and Alex.

Bella was more than “just a dog” to our family. She was there by our side for every milestone, special event, and every quiet moment in between. Bella was full of life, love, and never hurt a fly her entire life as she always got along well with every animal she was introduced to over the years. She was an incredibly playful, intelligent, and social puppy who somehow morphed into a diva-like snob as she aged. Despite this however, everyone who met her met always commented on her sweet disposition, cute face, and femininity (as well as her huge appetite despite being a little french-fry!). Bella brought so much joy to our lives and made even the hardest days feel a bit brighter with her adorable features, loud whines for attention, passionate kisses and determination to sit on someone’s lap -she gave a new meaning to the word ‘lapdog’. Bella was also very photogenic and was always a good sport in front of the camera as there are literally thousands of pictures of her that were taken over the years.

Bella had a deep connection with both of her dads, though she followed her daddy Alex around like a mini shadow as he was known to spoil and baby her much more often and she knew how to work the system to get extra treats and attention. They shared a deep bond that was evident to everyone around them. Bella was incredibly cuddly with her other dad Jon and would always seek him out when she wanted to feel safe, warm or be sung to.

Bella had very expressive and large eyes- one of her most endearing traits. Sadly, those beautiful eyes started to become foggy, tired, and revealed the weight of the years that had eventually caught up to her. Our family dedicated the last bit of her life to provide her the most comfortable, healthy, and lengthy life possible- but time always catches up despite even the best efforts and medical care. Bella bounced back from what would have potentially killed many other dogs half her age and surprised everyone (including the vet team) by her tenacity and drive to survive. Despite her petite frame, she was a fighter until the very end and defied all the odds stacked against her as she lived comfortably for 7 months after being deemed palliative.

Though every part of us wanted to hold on to Bella forever- the day we dreaded since we had first laid eyes on her unfortunately arrived this past weekend- it was time to let her go. Despite knowing this day was looming over the horizon, it is the day every dog owner dreads and is never prepared for.

We will miss Bella beyond what words can express. She has taken a piece of our heart and soul with her over the rainbow bridge. Though we are filled with grief and sadness over her passing, we are extremely grateful and full of pride to have experienced being bella's doggy dads for the last almost 16 years. We wouldn’t trade our time with her for anything. It has been an honour and a privilege to have her as our daughter.

A big thank you to our friends and family who took the time to come visit Bella during her last days, dog-sit, support primary caregiver Alex while balancing her end-of-life care, and for those who have showed support during this difficult time. A big thank you to the staff at Embleton Vet Hospital who saved Bella’s life numerous times by providing Bella prompt medical attention and bent over backwards to always be available for her. The Masucci and Benevides families (and friends) will cherish the memories we have shared with Bella and take solace knowing she was surrounded by unconditional love until the very end.

Rest easy sweet girl. You were the best thing that ever happened to us and our bond will transcend time and space. Your paw has left a permanent imprint on our heart and soul forever. You are now our guardian angel from afar and have already showed signs that you’re still nearby. We love you always and forever our sweet baby girl and will miss you dearly. Until we meet again...<3