Today In Dog Love: Short Film "Denali"

Denali with photographer Ben Moon

“Denali,” a beautiful and touching short film, told from the point of view of a dog, would seem to be everything we'd love to hear our furry family members say if they could speak.

It was unexpected love at first sight when surfer/photographer Ben Moon met Denali. Traveling the western United States together, Moon and Denali shared a life full of adventure, freedom, and joy.

In June 2004, tragedy struck. Ben was diagnosed with stage 3 cancer. Denali stood faithfully by his side, refusing to leave the hospital room. Throughout Moon's entire treatment, there was Denali, resting gently beside Ben. The dog’s healing power played a huge role in Ben’s recovery.

Denali had been a big part of Ben’s photography, even taking his rightful place on magazine covers throughout the years.

In early 2014, Denali himself endured cancer, and Ben promised to never let him suffer.

According to Ruffwear, he told him it was okay to let go. But after production began for the “Denali” film a week later — the very video you’re about to see — Ben asked Denali if he could stick around for another month. Exactly one month later, at midnight, Denali developed a bad cough. Moon and Denali played on the beach the next day. The following morning he gave Ben the look — it was time to go.

“When someone you love walks through the door, even if it happens five times a day, you should go totally insane with joy.”