Zipper Pine

19 June, 2010 – 31 January, 2026

Zipper was born in June 2010 in Fairfield, Pennsylvania and was brought home to our family in August 2010. I remember carrying a computer printed photo of him for weeks before picking him up—a sweet lab/collie mix with the biggest brown eyes. Although his name was inspired by a carnival ride, friends often thought his name came from how fast he sped around the yard, always eager to play and run.  

Zipper could most often be found romping the yard or lounging in the sun, always sporting a spiffy bow tie or bandana (but never a sweater). He equally loved to run and relax; one of his favorite places was sitting with the family around a nighttime fire. His goal in life, which he did every day to his best, was to protect the family from delivery drivers, runners, and squirrels. His greatest fear, funnily enough, was a 2.5-foot-tall inflatable horse. Zipper loved to play tug and fetch, and only the most durable toys could withstand his play. He loved sprinting around the yard with his green rubber stick, not to mention real sticks, too. As he grew older, though, he developed a soft spot for the cuddlier toys—his stuffed blue squid was often tussled with and held with love. He enjoyed sprawling in patches of sun both indoors and out.  

A food connoisseur, Zipper loved bits of chicken, spoonfuls of peanut butter, cheese, and every kind of treat. His nose could sniff out any vegetable, which he would carefully eat around no matter how well mixed in they were. Zipper enjoyed going on walks, especially an occasional run, and was always busy sniffing anything and everything in his path. After a long walk, Zipper enjoyed lying in bed, where he would sometimes rest his head the pillow and snuggle under the covers. Each night, he would make his rounds to every member of the family, patrolling to make sure we were all safe before settling into one of his own cozy spots. He had a love-hate relationship with being brushed. His strengths included being a swift sprinter, a gentle friend, and a master protector. He was known for being unable to walk backwards, causing daily traffic jams that we will look back on fondly. Above all, however, Zipper is remembered for being an enthusiastic companion and gentle friend.  

Zipper, you will be remembered in so many ways, big and small. We will miss your midnight visits, big smiles, and sweet face. We will miss your handshakes, your long snout, and the way the hair on your neck rose when you were on high alert. When we think of you, we will remember the best days with the best boy, and we will know you are safe and warm in the sunshine again. You have been the most wonderful friend, protector, and part of the family. There are no number of words for how meaningful you have been in our lives and we are forever grateful. We love you, sweet boy—until we meet again