A personal reflection by Sanusi Umar, MD on Zeus, Zino, genetics, grief, and the ways love can continue without pretending that what was lost can be replaced.
Most people know me as Dr. U or The Bumpinator. This story is simply me as a man who loved his dog.
Zeus was my first dog. He was beside me through years of life, work, invention, fatigue, and change. Long before I knew I would lose him, I had cells preserved from him. When Zeus died after a long, painful goodbye, I kept his urn, paw prints, and locks of hair. I treasured them, but they could not quiet the emptiness he left behind.
Why I Chose to Clone Zeus
I eventually chose to clone him. Not because I believed I could bring Zeus back. I knew I could not. A life is more than DNA. I made that choice because Zeus had left no offspring, and I wanted his line to continue.
“Then Zino arrived. He did not replace Zeus. He made room for a new kind of love.”
Genetics, Environment, or Both?
I expected the same face, coat, and body. What surprised me were the little things only I would recognize: the way Zino settles beside me in the car, close enough to kiss the back of my head; the same dance when excited; the same fascination with television while my other dogs, Athena and now Idia, watch the door.
For two years I watched and wondered: genetics, environment, or both? I honestly do not know. I only know what it feels like to see a familiar habit return after you thought it was gone forever.
A Line That Continues
Idia recently delivered eight puppies. Seven were healthy and one was stillborn. Joy and loss entered the room together. Zeus never had puppies, but through Zino, the line I thought ended with him now continues.
Looking at Zino, Idia, and those puppies reminds me how lucky we are to have any time at all on this stage called life. I hope my daughter understands that earlier than I did. I hope we all leave something behind that quietly says, we were here.
Zeus was here. And I still miss you, Zeusy boy.
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Medical Disclaimer
This article shares a personal story and is provided for general informational purposes. It is not medical or veterinary advice and should not be used as a substitute for guidance from an appropriately qualified professional.
