Rest in peace, Homer

He was known to stop traffic along Miami Lakes Drive.
An 80-pound mutt with a golden mane that prompted comparisons to a lion, Homer had the heart of a lamb.
Homer was the beloved pet of Antonieta Kelly.
In recent years the pair could be seen walking around their Lake Martha neighborhood.
“He had charisma,” Kelly said of Homer’s talent for making friends with other dogs and people in town. “I’ve never seen anything like it.”
Homer was suffering from arthritis and heart trouble before he died on Sept. 10, when he was nearly 18-years-old, Kelly said.
The Miami Laker wrote about Homer’s unique look and popularity in 2017, and his death was worth noting.
Kelly was bereft, as were Homer’s fans who sent 10 condolence cards and two emails.
She called the sweet boy -- that she used to spoil with double cheeseburgers from McDonald’s and roast beef from Publix -- “irreplaceable.”
Homer’s DNA profile included Chow Chow, Malamute and Swiss
Shepherd, breeds that may have contributed to his lush coat that was groomed to resemble a great cat.
He helped Kelly cope with the deaths of loved ones, including her two adult children, Susan and Christopher, as well as her husband Christopher who died a year ago, she said.
A retired college mathematician, Kelly said
Homer’s ability to connect with those he met was unique compared to other dogs she has raised and cared for.
She recalled one morning when a little boy was brought by his grandfather to find Homer.
The child had refused to go to school until he could hug his friend.
Kelly said that anyone who wishes to remember Homer may consider making a donation to an animal rescue organization.
--Linda Trischitta