10/19/2026
On October 7, 2026, Taz Venzor-Cooper, left this earthly plane on his porch during a gentle breeze with his parents at his side, as the sun warmed his face, welcoming him into the next life.
Though not much is known specifically about his earliest childhood, Taz came into our lives on Mother’s Day 2014, a foster who quickly became an adoptee by way of his intense loyalty, loving nature, and radiant silliness. In his approximate 14 years of life, the truest way to describe Taz was “The Most.” He was the most loving, the most loyal, the most protective, the most persnickety, and the absolute most spoiled, pampered dog to ever live. It was the honor and joy of our lives to witness all the seasons of his.
Taz was a symphony – from his sighs and harumphing, or his whining (specifically to signal the burning desire for more treats), to the tippy tapping sounds of his excited feet on the floor – the music he made became the soundtrack of our everyday life.
As an only child, Taz accumulated a kingdom of toys, blankets, and beds that a pharaoh would envy. When he received a new toy, he would carry it around in circles throughout the house, then indicate that he wanted to take the toy outside, as if to show the neighborhood his newest offering. He would repeat this with whichever toy was his favorite at the time anytime a guest would enter the home as if to say, “Welcome to my house, behold one of my many things.”
Taz never met a snack he didn’t want, apart from the tragic time he stole a piece of cauliflower off his mother’s snack plate, or his parents’ foolish attempt to replace his treats with celery and carrots (short-lived). He was fastidious regarding the timely collection of his much-coveted “cheese tax,” and welcomed all food-related offerings with a regalness befitting his station as the King of our lives.
It’s impossible to find the exact words to honor this beautiful soul, though the best way to honor Taz would be to live as he did:
• Love loudly, openly, and with complete abandon
• Fiercely protect those you love
• Eat ALL the cheese…seriously…all of it
• Hog every blanket and pillow you can get your paws on
• Headbutt everyone, as a treat
The family would like to thank Dr. Jan Weiher with Redbud Veterinary, as well as the team at All Pets Cremation Center, whose care and kindness eased such a difficult and heartbreaking time and allowed us to give Taz the best, most peaceful sendoff we could’ve possibly hoped for. We also want to thank Stephens City Animal Hospital for the many years of wonderful care you provided Taz.
Finally, until we meet again, thank you Taz for the years of laughs, smiles, side eyes, and immeasurable love. We will love you forever.