Losing a cherished pet can leave an emotional void. This is especially true when they’ve been by your side during key stages of life. Supermodel Taylor Hill understands this all too well after losing her “soul dog” Tate in 2023. However, with the help of Salem, a rescued German shepherd, Hill is now healing from the heartbreak and finding solace.
A Life Shared with Tate
Taylor Hill has had an impressive career as a model and former Victoria’s Secret Angel. She adopted Tate, a Labradoodle when she was 18. The timing was perfect because Hill was entering adulthood. Tate’s companionship helped her through some of her loneliest moments. At that time, she had just begun her career in modeling, living independently, which left her feeling isolated.
“I was so lonely,” Hill recalls. “I associated dogs with companionship and love, and I thought getting a dog might help with that.” Tate became her faithful companion throughout her 20s, teaching her responsibility, patience, and unconditional love. He was more than just a pet—he was a part of Hill’s world, her constant source of comfort, and inspiration.
The Birth of Tate & Taylor Hill
Tate inspired Hill to create a platform for pet lovers called Tate & Taylor. It offers guides and expert advice. The platform also provides curated pet products, focusing on small businesses. Hill wanted to create the site with Tate beside her. Together, they would guide pet parents in making thoughtful choices for their fur babies. “I wanted to help people take better care of their pets, just as I did for Tate,” she said.
Unfortunately, Tate’s life was cut short when he was diagnosed with lymphoma. He passed away in 2023 at the age of nine. His untimely death shattered Hill, as she had always imagined they would continue their journey together. “Losing Tate felt like losing a part of everything I built,” Hill shared.
Healing Through Philanthropy
In the wake of her loss, Hill channeled her grief into giving back. She launched a special collection through Tate & Taylor called F*ck Cancer. All of the proceeds go to the Buddy Fund at the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center. Tate was treated there. This effort allowed Hill to honor Tate’s legacy while helping other pets and their owners navigate the same struggles.
Enter Salem: The Unexpected Healer
Hill never expected to open her heart to another dog so soon after losing Tate. However, fate had different plans when she met Salem, a black German shepherd rescued from a difficult situation. “I never thought I’d get another dog so quickly, but Salem was exactly what I needed,” she said. Salem had never experienced love or care. He was timid and shy when Hill first adopted him from Animal Aid USA.
Watching Salem blossom into a happy, playful dog became a healing experience for Hill. “Helping Salem learn to be a dog helped me grieve,” Hill explained. Salem had never played with toys or known a life of comfort. However, under Hill’s care, he slowly learned to trust. He opened his heart as Hill mended hers.
Tailor Hill’s Advice for Aspiring Pet Parents
Taylor Hill’s journey with Tate and Salem has taught her many lessons. She offers two key pieces of advice to those considering adopting a pet.
Adopt, Don’t Shop
Both of Hill’s dogs, Tate and Salem, were adopted. She believes that adopting from shelters is a compassionate choice. It can also lead to finding your perfect companion. “You can find any breed at a shelter if you look,” she says. Hill was lucky enough to find Salem, a rare black German shepherd, through Animal Aid USA. This proves that there are countless pets waiting for loving homes.
Patience is Key
Bonding with a new dog takes time, and Hill emphasizes that patience and understanding are crucial. “Building a relationship with a dog is just like building one with a person,” Hill notes. “You have to give them time to trust you. In return, they’ll give you all the love and companionship you could ever ask for.”
More about Taylor Hill: Conclusion
Nothing can replace the bond Hill had with Tate. However, adopting Salem has given her an unexpected source of healing and love. Hill continues to build her platform, Tate & Taylor. She honors the memory of Tate. At the same time, she embarks on a new chapter of her life with Salem by her side.
Hill’s journey shows how pets have the power to heal and enrich our lives. This happens in many beautiful and surprising ways. It can occur through adopting a pet. It may also happen by giving back or simply spending time with a pet.
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