Ms. Opu, one of our morning dog regulars for years, died last month as a result of kidney, liver, and pancreatic organ failure. Although she was an elderly dog at 13 years, she went into a steep decline and, in just a couple of weeks, went from apparently healthy to passing away.

Just after she died, Costco issued a recall of its Kirkland Premium dog food, which had been part of her diet.

Whether this was a cause, a factor, or just a coincidence remains unknown but an unsettling possibility for Opu’s people and those of us who also loved her.

Aloha, Ms. Opu.