How Losing My Cats Led to a Hike That Saves Lives

Hey Golden Whiskers family,This week’s podcast episode is a little different. It’s just me—no guests, no AI voices—just my voice, sharing something really personal and close to my heart.With our Tails on Trails event coming up in just a couple of weeks, I wanted to share the real reason I created it. Yes, it’s a community hike and festival with live music, vendors, and adoptable pets. But at its core, it’s a tribute. A sacred way to honor the two cats who changed my life—Nomar and Mia—and to make something beautiful out of the grief I’ve carried since they passed.If you’ve ever lost a pet or struggled with how to move forward after a loss, I hope this short solo episode helps you feel less alone—and maybe even sparks your own ritual of remembrance.Thank you for being here.With gratitude,Scottgoldenwhiskerslove.com | tributehikes.com🎧 Episode Snapshot:In this rare solo episode, I share the emotional story behind Tails on Trails, our annual hike and festival happening on October 25th in Knoxville. This event isn’t just about bringing pet lovers together—it’s about healing through action, and creating something beautiful and lasting in the names of the two cats who walked beside me for 20 years: Nomar and Mia.You’ll hear:* 🐾 Why losing Mia and Nomar shattered me—and how I began to heal* 🥾 How Tails on Trails became my guiding light during the darkest days* 💛 The mission behind the Nomar & Mia Compassion Fund and how it’s helping other pet parents* 🌲 What to expect at this year’s event—from the memory wall and gentle memorial walk, to food trucks, live music, and the new Golden Paw Awards* 🕯️ An invitation to honor your own pets through action, even if you can’t attend in personWhether you’re grieving a pet, supporting someone who is, or simply want to help save lives—you’ll understand why this hike is so much more than just a walk in the woods.📣 How You Can Help or Get Involved:🎟️ Join us in Knoxville on October 25th:Visit tributehikes.com to sign up or donate.💸 Make a Donation to the Nomar & Mia Compassion Fund:Every dollar helps a pet parent avoid the heartbreaking choice between care and cost.Give at tributehikes.com.📸 Share a memory of your pet:Tag @goldenwhiskerslove or use #TailsOnTrails so we can honor your pet too.💬 Final Thought:Creating this event gave me a reason to keep going—and a way to transform heartbreak into legacy. You don’t have to do something big. Even a small ritual, a quiet hike, or a single candle lit in memory of your pet can be enough.And if you ever need a trail to walk beside others who understand—this is it. Get full access to Golden Whiskers at www.goldenwhiskerslove.com/subscribe