Kaya was an exceptional dog. She was undeniably unique — one that will eternally be remembered as more than just a pet.
Though I never had the pleasure of meeting Kaya, viewing videos and reading her story cultivated a profound respect for her legacy and everything she achieved. Rarely has any canine evoked such feelings in me.
Service animals are indeed capable of transforming lives, and this remarkable dog exemplified that truth.
As her guardian, Cole Lyle, a combat veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps from Dallas, Texas, eloquently expressed: “Kaya’s existence and legacy merit recognition and celebration” – I share with you the tale of this extraordinary being, her incredible journey, and her final voyage home that moved everyone to tears.
A Heartfelt Final Journey Home
“We have a distinguished guest on board today,” the captain of Southwest Air Flight announced over the intercom, capturing the attention of everyone on the aircraft.
“Kaya has flown on Southwest more than 250 times out of 320 trips. Regrettably, Kaya has recently been diagnosed with an incurable cancer, so we have the somber privilege of taking her on what will be her final flight. She is returning home to rest in the place where she was born and first met Cole.”
A video documenting this moment, shared by the airline on their official TikTok account, rapidly went viral, accumulating over 24 million views to date.
This magnificent canine has undeniably stolen the hearts of individuals from all corners of the globe.
“Kaya has been alongside her handler, Cole, since 2014. She was specially educated to assist veterans in managing mental health challenges,” the captain elaborated on Kaya’s story.
Her entire existence was truly inspiring. Not only did she provide support to her owner, Cole, but she also served as the catalyst for the PAWS act, which is the reason for her extensive travels.
“On behalf of Southwest Airlines, your two veterans up front — we express our gratitude to both Kaya and Cole, a Marine Corps veteran, for their service,” the captain concluded, prompting passengers to show their affection for this lovely canine.
A resounding round of applause and cheers erupted throughout the aircraft. And, as if she sensed it was for her, Kaya raised her head slowly and gazed upwards, almost as if she were asking: “Is this applause for me?”
On his Instagram account, Cole shared alongside the video, expressing his gratitude for the support:
“Upon landing, they informed the entire terminal about Kaya, so when they placed her on a cart and escorted her off the plane, we were met by a thunderous crowd. Everyone was thanking her. Everyone was clapping.”
It is truly astonishing to witness how one dog can exert such an influence, and it certainly deepens our appreciation for those furry beings even further.
A Canine Advocate For Veterans
This stunning German Shepherd served as an ambassador for service animals and veterans throughout the U.S., and with her owner, Cole, she made significant contributions to the entire community.
Shortly after returning from his deployment in Afghanistan, Cole was diagnosed with PTSD. Unfortunately, the treatments proved ineffective for him. “I was truly at a very low point in my life, and teetered on becoming a veteran suicide statistic,” he reflected.
The life he had once known had been violently torn away. He was genuinely at rock bottom — devoid of all purpose in life and faith in himself.
Fortunately, in 2014, he made the decision to welcome Kaya into his life: “She was an exceptionally intelligent dog, right from the start… and always remarkably perceptive.” He had Kaya specially trained to assist him with his PTSD symptoms, such as nightmares and anxiety attacks.
Kaya was precisely what he required. With her by his side, Cole managed to reclaim his life. Medication and therapy were ineffective, but this furry angel was paramount. She genuinely salvaged his life and motivated him to help others.
Kaya spurred him to initiate a nonpartisan movement and advocacy organization for veterans, named Mission Roll Call, and to testify before Congress, championing for service dogs for all veterans in need.
Certainly, his furry partner was always by his side. She became a symbol of the endeavor, lobbying for groundbreaking legislation known as Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers (or the PAWS act).
“Kaya’s existence was defined by service,” described Cole, and he was absolutely right. In 2021, president Joe Biden enacted a law, establishing a five-year program to supply service dogs and training to veterans coping with PTSD.
Rest in Peace, Precious Girl
Kaya passed away on February 4, 2023, in Dallas, Texas, her home state, after spending her final hours with Cole in their favored hangout. Unfortunately, cancer proved to be insurmountable for this gentle soul.
Cole expressed on Twitter: “In essence, Kaya endured in silence. Perhaps she, similar to many of the veterans she assisted, believed her condition was typical and learned to coexist with it.”
He continued: “I miss you already, dear girl. My heart is shattered, and I feel numb without you. Yet, I find comfort in knowing you are free from discomfort.”
Throughout her service, she has aided countless veterans, and I am confident that her influence will continue to benefit many in the years to come. She was undoubtedly a remarkable companion.
“Her most significant legacy is — and will always be — the other veterans who were inspired to acquire their own service dogs and admitted they might have taken their own lives had they not done so.”
Numerous people have shared tributes to Kaya across social media, including various politicians. Recently, Cole mentioned that: “Even after her passing, Kaya continues to build connections and foster relationships.”
Her legacy persists.
Rest in peace, dear girl. Thank you for everything!
