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Enjoy scrolling through all of our Frosted Face senior animals who have benefit from our mission at Frosted Faces Foundation. They are listed in order of date of rescue, including those that have passed. If you have been following a certain Frosted Face's story and would like to know how he/she is doing, please email us at friends@frostedfacesfoundation.org.
Please make note of animals still looking for families as their "Family" is listed as "Frosted Faces Foundation." View their biographies and more photos at Available Frosted Faces, learn more about becoming a family and the different programs we offer. You can also help fund their care by registering as their monthly sponsoring Fan.
Huey
Acquired from: Mission Viejo Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: July 31st, 2020
Date of Passing: March 5th, 2024
Family: Rita Dunn
Fans: Shannon Seccombe
Tribute: On March 5th, Rita fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Huey.
She shared,
"Lost my little Huey last week.
It is very hard to look at his favorite hiding spaces around the house that he chose. He liked his privacy so every place he hung out, I put a bed there for him. The house just isn’t the same without him. The hardest to see is where his favorite bed was next to my recliner that he sat in a lot to be near me.
He was a food snob, turning his nose up at regular old dog food. I hate to admit it but I cooked for this little six pound dog. He had me wrapped around his finger. His favorites were chicken, sausage, quiche and of course take out would be devoured. Taco meat, hot dogs and I always had to buy an extra cheeseburger at McDonald’s for him. He lived for food!
Outside, he would wander our large backyard but never sit down anywhere, ever. He didn’t run or play, but seemed to be very business-like covering the same route and checking on the same spots. I had to make sure I didn’t leave him out there too long or his little legs would get tired. Each time he came in he was excited and followed me everywhere because he thought it was dinnertime.
Walks were a challenge because Huey never learned to walk on a leash. He would cross in front of me and trip me up. We both got hurt once landing on the sidewalk. It was me who had to learn how to walk him! He really was the boss of me. Those walks turned into stroller walks eventually. He had the Rolls Royce of strollers and he sat in it like he was proud of it. He loved the wind blowing in his face.
I think his personality was that of a cranky old man at times, and at other times he was my baby. We enjoyed the love and I hope I took care of him as well as he took care of me.
I miss him so much and always will."
Max
Acquired from: Coachella Valley Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: August 1st, 2020
Date of Passing: March 4, 2022
Family: Patrick Wafer & Sandra Candler Wafer
Fans: Kirsten Rutherford
Tribute: On March 4th, Patrick and Sandra fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Max.
Max's case broke my heart. He was known to be a fear biter and have lots of energy, it was a miracle we placed him. Earlier this month he was diagnosed with pancreatitis, causing diabetes, poor kidney and liver values- and he just looked terrible. Max's case was a matter of endurance for us and he would get better. Dogs don't die from pancreatitis around here, maybe cancer or heart failure, but not this. We treat treat treat and they go home. We hospitalized Max at Animal Emergency Clinic of San Diego for 2.5 weeks and spared no expense. The organization spent $13,000 fighting for little Max, and in the end all we had was a lesson learned- sometimes no amount of money will save your little loves, so enjoy the time you have. Max's kidney values were sky high and we had three vets telling us that it wasn't fair to keep going because he was horribly nauseous and painful. I just wanted him to live so badly, you should have seen how his parents looked at him with so much love.
Patrick wrote and shared a beautiful sermon about Max the Sunday after he passed. That was a first, and what a legacy to have live on in your heart about a little rescue dog.
They shared,
"I keep asking my husband that though Max was a rescue.. I can't help but wonder who rescued who?!! Max was no longer alone and greatly loved; my husband had a retirement buddy and me.. well I'm a sucker for a cute and cuddly face!!
He was not one to be held or picked up, but as you see in our Christmas morning picture, he allowed my daughter to pick him up!! First time ever!! It took time when he first arrived but once he trusted me, he looked forward to sitting in my lap and leaning backwards to look at Patrick as if to say 'See daddy.. mama got me!!!' It was so funny!!!
The last weekend he came home, I will never forget, he was laying on his pillow and suddenly looked up at me and stared at me for the longest time. I asked him, "You ok, buddy?" He walked over to me, never lifting his head walking ever so slowly and just stood at my feet. I rubbed his back and he flopped down on his side, so hard it startled me and I had to check that he had not just passed away! He was breathing, but somehow I sensed he was just tired of the pain and ready to go. I've never felt that with a dog before, but Max was definitely different and special!
It took time to build trust and unlike dad, mom set boundaries! But Max graciously abided and waited with great anticipation for that treat he knew was coming for being good!! He even trained me to accept his playing with me when I arrived home from work and quickly learned to point out where the treats where and vocalize that he would like one!!!
He was amazing!! Again, God bless you all for what you do for these beautiful precious creatures. When we were there on Friday, even the dogs in the house seemed to sense something. One by one, each one came over and licked Max and looked at me and Patrick as if to say, "We understand." It's been an amazing experience and we will do it again sometime soon. Thank you, Thank you. Thank you!!!"
Matty
Acquired from: Corona Animal Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: August 4, 2020
Date of Passing: October 29th, 2021
Family: Ann Vertrees
Fans: Ali Manz in memory of Foster Bailey, Leslie Tobias
Tribute: On October 29th, Ann fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Matty after battling kidney disease.
She shared,
“We we’re blessed to be with Matty for over one year. During that time he grew significantly. He started off with us as very shy and scared of everything. We couldn’t pick him up or put on sweaters without fierce tantrums. But slowly, over the months, Matty started to warm up. He loved giving kisses and would approach me for attention. Matty’s favorite things were kisses, naps in the sun and Haagen-Dazs vanilla ice cream. Matty also got along great with his siblings Lucy the chihuahua and Artemis Kit-Cat. He left an indelible mark on our hearts and we miss him terribly.”
Piloto
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: August 5, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Jennifer & Wayne Khoe
Fans: Heather Madsen
Oscar
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: August 5, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Lauren Doone
Fans: Corynn E., Julie Boyles
Flora
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: August 5, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Jennifer & Wayne Khoe
Fans: Vikki & Arnie Medrano, Susan, Marilyn Fouts
Mikey
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: August 5, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Greg Cronin & Shannon Mandich
Fans: George & Shannon
Melody
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: August 5, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Carolyn Harper
Fans: Michelle Dellino
Bella
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: August 5, 2020
Date of Passing: February 13, 2022
Family: Ron & Kerry Ferreirae
Fans: Heidi Ostlund
Tribute: On February 13th, Ron and Kerry fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Bella.
They shared,
"There are two kinds of dogs in this world: those that try to please you and those that don't. Bella was the latter. She lived life by her own rules, unconcerned about the desires of the lowly humans surrounding her. She barked to communicate her desires and was remarkably good at getting her point across.
This kind of dog forces you to bring your own open heart and unconditional love to the relationship. In return, over time, you get the greatest gift of all. You see their trust slowly build, their little body relax, and a glimmer in their eyes of gratitude that finally, after all these years of a very hard life, someone is going to put their needs first.
Bella gave us that gift. When her cranky little spirit crossed the rainbow bridge, we mourned her loss and at the same time felt a deep peace knowing we'd given her the best of safety, love, good food, adventures, and warm beds. She deserved nothing less."
Denver
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Oceanside
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: August 6, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Anne Badgley
Fans: Tembo & Laika
Quest
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Oceanside
Age upon Rescue: 15
Date of Rescue: August 6, 2020
Date of Passing: August 12th, 2020
Family: Frosted Faces Foundation
Fans: Annie Petersen, Patricia Gonzalez-Powell
Tribute: On Wednesday, August 12th, we fulfilled our promise to Quest.
Quest was a stray to San Diego Humane Society-Oceanside and they immediately reached out to us in hopes that we would bring him to Frosted Faces Foundation.
The shelter reported that he was eating, but at FFF he was not and he was frequently vomiting. We took him straight to College Animal Hospital where his kidney values were off the charts. So high that it was likely some kind of cancer and not simple renal failure. We hospitalized him for three days to give him supportive care and his numbers did not improve nor did he want to eat. He also seemed mentally inappropriate. We discharged him to see if he would perk up and brought him to the beach- the healing breeze of the salty sea would surely make him better.
Instead, that is where it became clear. Quest did not need more time, he did not need a new family or to make more memories. He had lived a long life with someone whose feet tread the same ground as us out there somewhere, and we wish they would have been present to say good bye to their boy. We were privileged to be put in the position to try our best for him, and also release him from his failing body.
Teddy
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: August 11, 2020
Date of Passing: October 14th, 2020
Family: Heather Madsen & Derek McCarthy
Fans: Mike & Debbie Coulter, Wilson Family Amy & Kevin Scanlon, Theresa Mulligan, Cuellar Family
Tribute: On October 14th we fulfilled our promise to Teddy after a valiant battle with kidney disease. We hospitalized him three times to help him rally, his mom gave him fluids and supplements at home, but no amount of love and excellent care could keep Teddy in his sweet, soft body we loved to squeeze.
His mom shares,
"We made the heart breaking decision to say goodbye to our sweet Teddy. His body was failing him and he no longer felt well. I could see in his eyes on Monday that he was asking me to help him...and I knew he was ready.
My sweet Teddy (aka Theodore, Teddy Long Legs, Teddy-Betty),
You were something special. We knew that you were “hospice” yet you took a giant leap into our hearts. We fell hard for you and were madly in love. How could we not be? You were the absolute sweetest thing. I spent many days devastated at the thought of you spending much of your last year in a shelter, alone. Who could have looked at that sweet face and left you there. It doesn’t seem fair that I only got 45 days with you. We wanted more. More days, weeks, months....anything, just more. I hope that your only memories were love and that year at the shelter seemed like a distant memory.
Teddy...we will miss everything about you. These are just a few of the things: the way your lips twitches when you slept making it look like you were smiling, your broken tail wagging, the “paw” if we stopped petting you, your little butt waddle as you walked, the “girlie” bark, and most of all your sweet cuddles. You loved love and we loved giving you love.
Thank you for rallying so hard to stay with us. 45 days will never be enough but we are so blessed to have had your sweet love. We love you, and will miss you always. I know I’ll see you again someday and we can eat chicken nuggets together sweet boy. You were a good boy Teddy-Betty!"
Leonard
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: August 11, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Marcia Hoeck
Fans: Shani Rosenzweig
Wizard
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: August 11, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Matthew & AugustinaGazaway
Fans: Patricia Gonzalez-Powell
Kennedy
Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: August 12, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Alexandra Mattera
Fans: Annie Petersen
jenkins
Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: August 12, 2020
Date of Passing: February 9th, 2021
Family: Tiffany Allen
Fans: Patricia Gonzalez-Powell
Tribute: On February 9th, Tiffany fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Jenkins.
Jenkins was adopted and returned because his family could not give him the dignity he deserved. He was in two foster homes who felt the same way. Jenkins did a lot of confused barking, was an on and off eater, and didn't engage much with any of the families. Tiffany helps to clean kennels at FFF on Sunday mornings and has a soft spot for the tough to place dogs.
We hold out for permanent placement, admittedly to a fault, hoping that routine and patience will help any senior thrive. The burden of understanding and placing newly abandoned seniors is heavy, not knowing what to expect and what is best for them. People like Tiffany carry this responsibility with such grace. Time will tell, time of love and accommodation to give dogs like Jenkins every chance to shine. There is reason why it was so hard to help Jenkins adapt in his new homes, and it was because is little body was failing and quality was no more. Tiffany witnessed a lot of wall staring, incontinence, excessive sleeping, and frantic relentless barking. Supplements were not effective, nor was a sleep schedule. Diapers were no problem! In the end, we have to ask, what are we waiting for? Does this make sense to be ushering him through his days?
We owe thanks to Tiffany for loving Jenkins in his final days. It wasn't easy, but it meant the world to little displaced Jenkins who just wanted to be home.
"Jenkins William Allen:
7 weeks & 2 days was not enough time, but I loved you every second of every day of them, & will continue to do so for...forever.
May your good morning kisses as you woke up each day be enough until we’re together again. #mamasboy "
Rutger
Acquired from: Coachella Valley Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: August 14, 2020
Date of Passing: November 16th, 2021
Family: Melissa & Keith Ritchason
Fans: Debra Obrzut, Michelle N Olivier, Bee Pagarigan, Jamie Spotswood
Tribute: On November 16th, the Ritchason Family fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Rutger.
They shared,
"On the morning of Tuesday November 16,2021 we had to give our last hugs and kisses to our best boy Rutz. This might be the hardest thing for me to write.
It has been a week and my heart is still in indescribable pain.
I first laid eyes on Rutger August 2020 in the lobby dog yard. He was quiet and kept to himself most of the time by laying on the big blue chair. When I sat on the couch to pet all the other dogs, he would quietly come over for pets as well. When the area got crowded with dogs getting lovins- Rutger would excuse himself back to the big blue round chair. He had the softest coat and the most loving soulful eyes. I fell in love immediately. My intention was to fling Rutger, but after his big mass removal, it was determined his body was full of mast cell tumors and he needed a hospice home. I don't think I could have responded to Kelly fast enough. I knew I wanted to love him for the rest of his days. Doctors said Rutger had a couple months at best. We started Rutger on the mast cell tumor regimen of benadryl and tagamet 3 x a day with greek yogurt and of course prednisone. Hoping and praying this would slow down the growth of those nasty tumors.
For the next 434 days Rutger was 110% loved and spoiled. So much for a couple months
Rutger had numerous names. Rutz, Rutzy Butzy, pumpkin spice,Rutty boy and fart blossom. Rutger was a foodie at its best. Anything would go. He would make his presence at the dinner table under your arm every day. He was just tall enough to nudge you so hard your food might go flying if it was on the spoon at the right time. He ALWAYS got whatever he wanted. His love was hands down food so anything and everything was on the menu. He wanted for nothing. Not food, not attention, not belly rubs , not scratches behind the ear anytime he wanted them. Luckily for Rutz, he lived with a family of 5 hoomans, so he was never alone in those 434 days. His humans were the most important part of his life, but mostly his mama. Where I went, he went. If he ever found a closed door, he would whine, whine, whine... until it was opened and he could see what was going on. Rutger loved walks in our small neighborhood. He would always race out the front door each morning to beat his non FF brother to the lawn first. An overnight morning peepee could last a full minute plus! We always used to joke that he could just water the grass for us.
On the morning of Tuesday November 16, I woke up to not find Rutz in his bed next to me. Something was wrong. He never left my side at night. My husband and I went downstairs to find Rutz laying on the cool tile floor. I thought to myself "this is weird.. Why would he come down? Was he too hot overnight upstairs?" We called his name and he didnt budge. His eyes opened and he stared right past us. I knew something was wrong. I felt it, but did not want to believe it. We encouraged him to get up and go outside, which he did. He went out, did his morning business, drank some water and came right back to his bed inside. Rutz eats first thing every morning, but he wanted nothing to do with food. Not Roast beef, not whipped cream, not snacks. And that's when I knew. He was struggling to catch his breath with just a simple back and forth from the backyard. His physical body was done. I called Paws into Grace as soon as they opened. I didn't want our boy to suffer and he was definitely struggling.
Dr. Johnson came to the house as soon as he could. I can't say enough about Paws into Grace. They are amazing. Compassionate and Respectful. Our daughter Kelly and I held Rutz tight as he took his last breath. As they carried Rutz from his home, Dr Johnson tipped his hat as a quiet gesture of empathy.
I have heard the saying several times in the past "who rescued who." Well let me tell you that sweet boy of ours definitely rescued our family. We will never be the same.
My heart has indescribable pain and sadness that our boy Rutzy is gone, but extremely thankful he allowed us to shower him with love.. hugs and be his furever hoomans.
Run pain free my pup pup. Mama loves.
Thank you to everyone involved with FFF. We are proud to be part of this incredible foundation."
Kenzie
Acquired from: Mission Viejo Animal Services
Age upon Rescue: 15
Date of Rescue: August 15, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Yoselin Hernandez & Adrian Gonzalez
Fans: Michael Brourman
Frida
Acquired from: Animal Friends of the Valleys
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: August 15, 2020
Date of Passing: February 27, 2024
Family: Joanna Rivera & Tony Lucas
Fans: Kendra Ramada
Tribute: On February 27th, Joanna and Lucas fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Frida after battling heart disease. We really appreciate them taking such good care of her. ❤
Fergus
Acquired from: Animal Friends of the Valleys
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: August 15, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Aaron & Jaclyn Nascimento
Fans: Sonja Ferris, Margo and Pups, Sis
Grandpa Grover
Acquired from: El Cajon Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: August 15, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Jane & Kate Boyle
Fans: Cristina Tello Berumen, Lori and Kelly Smith-Riccardi in memory of Tucker
Tribute: On March 15th, Jane fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Grandpa Grover after battling kidney disease.
She shared,
"I first met Grover on Aug 23, 2020. My daughter Kate talked me into going to FF to meet a new furry baby, who would become MY new furry baby. She and Kelly decided this old, very quiet chug(chihuahua/ pug mix) would be 'the one.' I was sitting on the floor watching dogs running around crazy and she put Grover, as he would be called, on my lap, and we watched all the excitement together, beginning our adventure in life.
To most, we had a rather boring existence, but it was perfect for us. We spent most of our time either resting or napping together. He in one of his three doggie beds and I on the couch trying to read or watch TV. Sometimes we'd actually cuddle up together under a wooby and purposely sleep. He liked visiting Kate, her partner Lee, and her kitty Truffle, even when she'd hiss and swat at him. He really loved his 'spa day' when Kate would give him a bath with lots of bubbles and warm water, then get nice and dry with his own big fluffy towel. He'd even run around afterward...he felt so good.
The only other time he'd run was when he felt like he was outside too long while I'd chat with neighbors. He'd pull on leash, I'd drop it, and he'd run to front door and stare, hoping it would open, as he'd had enough of people and other dogs. The only two canines he'd tolerate were a sweet little Yorkie named Jolee and Milo, a fellow Chihuahua. The only other thing he really loved was eating! He knew when it was time for breakfast and supper, as he'd 'tell' me and 'dance' in front of his bowl.
Last week on March 15, by the way he looked at me, I knew he'd be leaving me. After Dr Russell did his exam and consulted with me, he was put in my arms one last time to say good bye. I truly loved this old puppy and hope he was happy and loved this old lady too. What a privilege it has been to share the last three and a half years with Grover, and I thank FF , including EVERY ONE of you, for this special time."
Misty
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue:9
Date of Rescue: August 15, 2020
Date of Passing: October 24, 2022
Family: Gary & Susan Darnell
Fans: Holly & Rob Mitchell
Tribute: On October 24th, Gary and Susan fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Misty.
Misty was Gary's constant companion for two years when he worked in the yard, watched TV, and ate dinner. She chased the lizard under the wood pile and passed out across the couch at night! When she was diagnosed with cancer that had spread to other organs and lymph nodes, he continued to try to give her every last good day. As she weakened, he carried her and kept her exceptionally clean. Misty trustingly held him in her gaze knowing he was doing his best for her, and neither wanting to leave to go on without the other.
To see a grown man cry about losing his best friend- we couldn't have shared a tighter, more sincere hug. He gave Misty a beautiful like and we let her go a sunset under a palm tree at FFF.
Spanky
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 7
Date of Rescue: August 15, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Timothy Tang & Scarlett Chen
Fans: Spottie
Oxford
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: August 15, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Maricruz & Brian Macz
Fans: Cheryl Bradley
Duke
Acquired from: Chula Vista Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: August 18, 2020
Date of Passing: July 24, 2022
Family: Dave & Kim Steele
Fans: Rita Levi
Tribute: On July 24th, Dave and Kim fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Duke.
They shared,
"Wanted to let you know our fierce little warrior Dukie has crossed the rainbow bridge. He had been having seizures, and they were becoming non-stop. He was also suffering from heart failure, causing him effort to breathe. He was under good medical treatment, but was quickly growing more infirm, and we didn’t want him to struggle.
We loved little Dukie. He was a complete and total dog, loving his family, walks outside, meals and treats, exploring, and being held. He was a handful at first, always a true night owl, and he taught me a lot about being understanding and compassionate. I’m a much better human being now. Thank you, Dukie.
And thank you, Frosted Faces, for saving Dukie from a sure, sad fate at a shelter, for trusting us with him, and for all of the support and kindness over the past two years. We owe you so much.
We’ll never forget our little warrior."
Nachi
Acquired from: El Cajon Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: August 19, 2020
Date of Passing: January 11th, 2022
Family: Anne & Howard Winter
Fans: Scott Dortch
Tribute: On January 11th, Anne fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Nachi after battling insulinoma.
"'I am still reeling from his death despite expecting it for the last 6 months. Nachi (Malloy) spent 17 months of his life with me, and those were a challenging 17 months because of Covid, my inability to travel and some very significant business issues our family was dealing with. His neediness matched my need to take care of him. My husband used to tease me that there was no way on G-d’s green earth I was going to take as good care of any human as I was of this dog in his twilight years. I really don’t know what else to tell you. I will quote what I wrote on the shroud he was tucked inside for his burial.
'Nachi, I will love you forever. You are in my heart and soul. Thank you for teaching me patience and how to take care of something every hour of the day. You helped me as much as I helped you. XOXO'
The intention of the visit was to evaluate his quality of life and find out how large the growth was inside him. Well, it was a shocker. But it also made sense to me because I could see how hard he was trying to shift his body around to find a comfortable position to sleep in and I knew that something was pressing on his windpipe as well as his other organs.
He got to play with three of my grandsons before he died and he had a whole fan club in my neighborhood where his nickname was 'grandpa.'
Thank you again for this opportunity to learn and grow and benefit in so many ways that words cannot describe."
Henry
Acquired from: El Cajon Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: August 19, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Brian & Theresa Wilford
Fans: Sherry Perez
Moe
Acquired from: Animal Friends of the Valleys
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: August 19, 2020
Date of Passing: October 4th, 2020
Family: Ray & Nancy Funderburk
Fans: Jay Kimbler, Diego & Amy Garcia , Andrea Cvitkovich, Kathleen Schmidt, Marilyn Golisch, Deb Barnes, Julienne & Brian, Richard & Elizabeth Howell
Tribute: On Sunday, October 4th, we fulfilled our promise to Moe.
Moe was surrendered to the shelter by his family and we are betting they saw him declining and didn't know what to do or didn't have the resources or courage to help him. Happens all of the time.
Our diagnostics showed that Moe had a large splenic mass and lung cancer, and so we treated him palliatively giving him the best of the rest. We were elated when volunteer Nancy chose to make him her own to give him individualized care.
____________
Nancy kept journal-like entries about her short time with Moe:
DAY 1: 8/30
I am in love! Moe is the sweetest boy and has settled in like he has always lived here. He followed us around today and would often fall asleep wherever he was, so I put dog beds inside and out for him. Eating is a little tricky, he is VERY picky but settled on an egg, cream cheese and a hot dog for dinner! He knows to go outside to pee and has not had any accidents. After dinner he joined us for some TV along with our cat. They have not been nose to nose yet but he is so non-threatening my cat just walks around him.
DAY 2: 8/31
Day two with sweet Moe! He slept thru the nite and seemed so happy to see us in the morning, tail was wagging, I wish I would have videoed it! He follows us around when awake and continues to use outside as his bathroom. This is his favorite dog bed. Still picky about food but have found eggs, hotdogs, chicken and cream cheese are working for now.
DAY 4: 9/3
Moe has been having a fun couple of days! Yesterday was a visit to Kit Carson Park for a little strolling. Today he had a playdate with my son's 9 week old lab/mix puppy. Moe was so good with him and Moe actually ran a little! He has really settled into our home. Still waiting to get a picture of our cat and Moe together, I think it is coming soon.
DAY 11: 9/9
Moe continues to surprise me! He still sleeps a lot but when awake does have a good amount of energy and loves his meals! I've started adding some dog food to his chicken nuggets and hamburger bites! He had another playdate with son's 9 week old lab and was so good about sharing his bully stick. We just love this guy so MUCH!
DAY 17: 9/16
Moe is the sweetest boy! He loves to be close by me all the time but maintains his independence. He does not like to cuddle, if I get on his bed to lie next to him he will get up and move. He is such a funny guy! He likes routine and will spend time with me and Jack (the cat) every morning while I'm on my computer, then he seeks out Ray and goes to his office for a while. Afternoons are all about napping! He continues to be a VERY picky eater and rotates between chicken nuggets, hot dogs, meatballs and shredded chicken. He will be at FF boarding for a few days while we are out of town, please give him a hug and kiss if you see him
DAY 29: 9/28
Update on our sweet Moe. He had a rough week with diarrhea, not eating and just not looking so good. After a trip to the vet and some meds to help his symptoms he rallied to make it to our family BBQ!
DAY 34: 10/3
Sweet Moe is having good days and not so good days. He is moving really slow, not wanting to eat much and sleeping a LOT. What amazes me about this guy is how much he has bonded with us in a short time and just wants to be wherever we are. He has not had an accident in the house! I put a belly band on him at nite but he barks when he's ready to go out and pee (usually 6am) and then comes back in and sleeps until 9ish. Belly band is dry! Today was really hard so I gave him fluids and dinner from McDonalds, one of his favorites! He ate about half and then we cuddled
DAY 35: 10/4
Today we said goodbye to sweet Moe. He tried so hard to hang on (or maybe it was me trying so hard?). I can not say enough good things about this gentle sweet boy! Moe was a very quiet dog, so why does my house seem so quiet when he's gone? He filled the house with his presence not his barking. We spent his last day watching football and just loving on him and telling him what a good boy he is!
I will miss sweet Moe.
_____________________
On Moe's final day Nancy and I talked for a long time. She had done it all from appetite stimulants, to fluids, to fresh air. It was so hard to see the weight of the decision and pain on Nancy's face of the unfairness, "How is it that I just took this dog home, gave him everything he needed, and I am still losing him?" When we deal with loss first hand there is so much unnecessary guilt and heaviness of "the decision" and care, but nonetheless we go through these motions. Helping Nancy made me realize- this was it. This was all little Moe's body could handle and she had done absolutely everything for him that you and I would do.
We put so much pressure on ourselves at a time of loss, but peeping my head out of this cloud of overwhelming sadness lately- I finally saw beauty. The beauty that Nancy stepped up in Moe's last weeks sacrificing her heart and home saying, "I will be his mom." How many people do you know that do something like this? Then the fact that she celebrated the love and adventure of their days together until there was no more joy to be had. Her positivity, the strength, the selflessness-
Thank you, Nancy. Fly high, sweet Moe.
cORNBREAD
Acquired from: Carlsbad Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: August 21, 2020
Date of Passing: August 26th, 2021
Family: Robin Kardon
Fans: Wendy Davis, Denise B.
Tribute: On August 26th, Robin fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Cornbread.
Robin shared:
"To love is to do, to feel, to become. Love is not passive, or still. Love is continual movement and change and growth—continual choice, continual promise..."
- Marisa Donnelly, "Love is a Verb," Thought Catalog
For the last couple of weeks, I’ve watched my foster dog’s quality of life decline. Cornbread, a tiny Miniature Pinscher, was found wandering the streets of Julian, California in the August 2020 heat. Only nine pounds, blind, in kidney failure and with two deformed front paws, he was desperately bouncing from barrier to barrier seeking food, water and shelter.
When Frosted Faces Foundation agreed to rescue him, I volunteered to drive to the shelter and transport him to safety. I found him confused, but energetic, racing around despite his physical limitations. He had no tag or chip, so the shelter named him Cornbread.
“Really? Why?” I asked.
The officer smiled. “When they brought him into the lunchroom, someone was eating cornbread.”
Three weeks went by after I dropped him safely at Frosted Faces, and I couldn’t get Cornbread out of my mind. He was considered a hospice dog, one with a short time to live. His kidneys were failing, which required a special treatment that I knew how to administer. I raised my hand and said I’d take him and keep him for the rest of his few remaining days.
Well, this dog decided early on that he wasn’t going anywhere. He learned the placement of objects in my house so quickly, by one week in he could navigate to and from his outdoor potty spot- which he chose himself- to his food and water bowl and his favorite bed. He ate voraciously, slept a lot, and entertained himself by basking in the sun.
It was odd how he never showed or demanded affection. Never nuzzled against my leg, licked me. He rarely wagged his tail. He kept to himself, occasionally joining my two other dogs under the dining room table while I ate, hoping for scraps.
As what we thought would be simply weeks of life stretched into a year, Little by little, he slowed, stumbled more, and fell victim to that horrific curse of all living things—dementia. He’d cry when he couldn’t find his favorite blanket, which sat in front of him at his feet. He’d circle around and around, bumping into things he’d always avoided before. And his kidney disease marched on.
On August 26th, a trusted at-home euthanasia vet visited my house, not for the first time, sadly, and concurred that it was time for Cornbread to rest. Crying, I told the vet how I had no idea if he’d felt my love, knew how treasured he was. When I stroked his head, did he feel something? Did belly rubs, ear nibbles, chin scratches tell him how much I cared? Pressing his little head against mine so we could dance to music cheek-to-cheek-- did that say "love" to him?
She sighed. “We don’t know his history. If his past was full of being hit, or yelled at, or bullied, he would never have learned how to give and receive love. Maybe love to him was just not being abused.”
Never learned how to give or receive love.
As the vet injected the solution that would stop his heart, I lay down next to Cornbread, who was all tucked into his favorite bed, and I quietly felt his soul leave his body. When he was gone, I saw a look on his face I had not ever seen before, not once in my year of loving him.
Peace.
The greatest act of love I could perform didn't involve pets, or treats or toys, changing his diaper or giving him his meds.
I let him go."
Emmett
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Oceanside
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: August 26, 2020
Date of Passing: June 6, 2022
Family: Krista & Jeff Pennal
Fans: RZ
Tribute: On June 6th, Kristin and Jeff fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Emmett.
They shared, "Emmett came into our lives at a time when my daughter needed a cuddly companion and he became her best friend, the two were inseparable. Emmett loved everything that my daughter loves: road-trips, naps, the beach, pizza, the Poway 4-H goat barn and all the animals. We had nearly two years and created so many amazing memories. Emmett will be missed but we know he is at peace."
Tootsie
Acquired from: Chula Vista Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: August 26, 2020
Date of Passing: September 4th, 2020
Family: Frosted Faces Foundation
Fans: Joni Duke
Tribute: Yesterday we fulfilled our promise to Tootsie.
“Fulfilled” will have to mean we tried our damnedest for Tootsie, because we didn’t deliver the promise of family or lifesaving medical care.
Tootsie entered the shelter as a stray, but when they went in to spay her they found a large mass so they requested a rescue exit.
On August 26th we rescued Tootsie from Chula Vista Animal Care Facility with the help of volunteer, Megan Wilson. It was their first freedom ride and the kids were ecstatic to help! They got to take freedom selfies and even give her a freedom bath!
Dr. Hoard reviewed the X-rays and we decided to do surgery yesterday. What she discovered was a 2 pound mass attached to Tootsie’s uterus that we sent out for a biopsy. It was gigantic and photos are enclosed.
She started waking up okay from surgery and then arrested. They did CPR, injections, and intubated her to bring her back. Dr. Hoard called to let us know that things were not going well and we should plan to move her to an ER for overnight recovery and monitoring.
Andy and I headed down to College Animal Hospital for the transfer where we were allowed to be at Tootsie’s bedside as they monitored her pulses, weaned her off of oxygen, and gave her a blood transfusion because her hematocrit was dropping. We talked to her and kissed her little feet telling her to be a tough girl.
When Tootsie was breathing independently, showing signs of light sensitivity, and getting nice and pink- we loaded her up and flew! I laid in back back of my Prius outstretched against Tootsie keeping her warm with additional heat support. Andy drove like he had a siren on the top of the vehicle.
We made it to Animal Emergency Clinic of San Diego and Tootsie was still alive! They brought her in quickly and let us know her pulses and temperature were good. WE could finally breathe!
Just hours later they let us know that she had stopped breathing. I talked to both Dr. Hoard and Dr. Ferenstein that night to make sure we were doing absolutely everything we could for Tootsie. They breathed for her manually for about 10 more minutes and we decided to let her go.
Shock is what we are all feeling today. And just that raw ache of, “What the hell just happened?” Like Andy said, 100% of the time we would have gone after that 2-lb mass in a dog. You can’t say we shouldn’t have done the surgery (although I’ve said it to myself 100x today). You just can’t predict an outcome like this. Tootsie was young, her diagnostics were great, this was an easy surgery by all accounts by just popping out a clean mass attached to a uterus that is already coming out. Guesses about Tootsie’s decline range from her body going into shock and adjusting to losing such an enormous mass and compensating, to a possible embolism. We literally fought for this dog until her last dying death and beyond.
Before surgery Tootsie was a much loved Frosted Face who already had two adoption applications. She went to a winery with us on Sunday and hiking. Several volunteers appreciated Tootsie’s silliness by recording her rolling around like a gremlin in the play yard on multiple occasions.
I’m most sad because this isn’t fair or planned. I can’t justify it and say she was suffering prior to this surgery and I can’t say it was anyone’s fault. It just was not meant to be and Tootsie no longer gets to live.
Thank you to all the FFF volunteers who loved Tootsie. I’m so sorry. Thank you to the vets who included us in Tootsie’s care, and tried so hard to help her rally.
Tessa
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Oceanside
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: August 29, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Sheryl Adams
Fans: Barbara Roblin Mirza, Mama In Memory of Sammy
Trixie
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Escondido
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: August 29, 2020
Date of Passing: October 18th, 2021
Family: Martine Moran
Fans: Carol Diaz-Zubieta, Elizabeth Gray
Tribute: On October 18th, Martine fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Trixie.
Martine shared,
"She's my second FF, and I drove out there from Wisconsin to get her...I'd do that again tomorrow to have her back, and to have the last year again with her. She made the trip back home with her nFF brother Hans, who was really ever the only one of the pups who connected with her. Maybe that's why I gave her so much attention, why she spent so much time in my lap or being carried around in the sling I'd made for her. Although the two other nFFs never fussed over her a lot, the four of them often slept together, with her nice and warm in the middle of them.
You know from my post a couple of weeks ago that she had travelled extensively in the last year, logging over 5000 miles, and going from coast to coast. No one knows if she was a camping girl in her prior life, but I can tell you that she was the best little traveler, the best! She'd be snoozing in the bed I put on the front seat of Mimi (my Sorento) before I even left the neighborhood, and adjusted easily to the camping routine...being carried around the campground, meeting new people, and sitting with me at campfires.
At home, she mostly slept with her nFFs and, at night, she'd snuggle next to me. In the morning, she was usually within a foot or two of that spot...that she was not that morning got my attention instantly.
In her last couple of weeks, she didn't circle around then walk towards me when she woke up from a nap, and I had the sense she really didn't know what was going on. I remember thinking that time was getting short, but was happy to have her hang out as long as she seemed pain-free, and had a good appetite...and she *really* did have a good appetite, even with her last dinner.
She passed away a week ago now, and the routine has changed, but I think about her so often! I know she was loved, not just by me, but my many others! I've gotten cards from FFF (thank you for that and absolutely everything else you do!), from friends and, of course, from my vet clinic. Trixie was well-known there, too, because I work there, and sometimes brought her in with me. Never mind that she just napped on those days, but we could all check in on her and admire her cuteness, and I could sneak in smooches here and there
I've been told many times this week that I'm so special because I'll adopt a sweetheart that I know won't be with me too long. I've been quick to point out that maybe I am special, but it's not just me, that I have a whole "family" who gets it, and who's special, too. You gave Trixie and me such an outpouring of love last week and, although I didn't respond to each message, I read them all a couple of times, and I appreciate that you took the time to reach out. I may have loved her the most fiercely, but many others did, too, and my tiny tribe and I thank you so much. I'll have a hug for whoever wants one when I'm out there next "
Pablo
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Oceanside
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: August 29, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Clifford & Ali Skelton
Fans: Denise B.
Punkin
Acquired from: Final Wish Program
Age upon Rescue: 15
Date of Rescue: August 30th, 2020
Date of Passing: May 12th, 2022
Family: Lynda Donato
Fans: Stephanie Purifoy, Jerrie, Lori Stansal
Tribute: On May 12th, Lynda fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Punkin.
She shared,
"Punkin caught my eye the minute I saw pictures of him when I was away for the summer in Colorado . I headed home and went right to FF to meet him but….. I chickened out because I had just lost a doggie and adopting a 15 yr old frightened the heck out of me. He was then adopted and returned a week later. This was my sign. I went back and scooped him up.
He was skinny and funny looking with a big long tongue that hung out and a hysterical poop dance. He was deaf, had trouble eating and couldn’t make any noises at all because he had been debarked. The first month was incredibly difficult. I had to rush him to emergency a few times. Once, on my way to College Animal Hospital, I called Kelly and said I thought he died and pulled over to give him mouth to mouth resuscitation. He made it after an operation and did pretty well with a few hiccups over the next year and half.
Punkin was an amazing little guy. I wish I had know him when he was younger. He had spunk and hopped and bounced around the house, especially at dinner time. When you held him, he put his head back and stared into your eyes. He never licked me or snuggled but oh those looks. He stared right into my soul. That’s how he “spoke” to me. He traveled with us all last summer and he would lean back in his car seat and look at me for hours. It’s like he was telling me this was OUR journey and we were totally in this adventure together.
Sometime during his first few months with me he blossomed into a beautiful little Papillon with butterfly ears and long silky hair. I couldn’t believe it. I had no idea. He was only about 3 1/2 lbs but he changed me and how I look at older handicapped dogs forever. His fire may have been dim at times but it stayed lit and his life was important and meaningful. I fought doctors opinions that he was “just a poor old skinny dog” without much hope.
At the end I knew it was time because his fire was out and his eyes had lost their search for mine.
I’d like to thank Mika Sumner for advocating that he be brought to FF when she learned he’d been living in a kennel for 8 years after his mom died. He so deserved a mom and a home again. And thank you Kelly for telling that emergency doc not to let him go that very first time he got so sick so that we could have this time together. I really really loved you, my Punky."
Dandelion
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Escondido
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: September 2nd, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Erica & Tom Zanetti
Fans: Vicky
Cassy
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Escondido
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: September 2nd, 2020
Date of Passing: February 24, 2022
Family: Nina Nguyen
Fans: Morgan Kleiderlein
Tribute: On February 24th, Nina fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Cassy.
Nina shared,
"My little sweet kind gentle love of my life, Cassy passed away last night around 1045pm at VCA Emergency Hospital on Hotel Circle.
Cassy has been seeing Dr. Garcia with VCA since last May (literally) every few weeks, after her internal bleeding that happened last April. There were no signs of heart failure being soon.
We were at her vet appointment yesterday at 4pm. She had x-rays done because lately she's been slowing down so much during her walks. The concern was for her heart murmur and he found that her spine was hurting when touched.
We left around 5:30 and once home, she was given some medicine for her pain and I thought that was the reason why she was excessively drooling.
I took her to the ER around 1015 because the fluid didn't stop and she started to have a runny nose. She passed away right after we got there.
It appears her heart gave out and her lungs was full. It was such a short amount of time that there wasn't a full check on exactly what happened. Dr. Garcia is going to talk to the ER to see if they can figure out more on what happened. She will be cremated and her ashes returned to me.
I want to thank you all so much for allowing this precious creature to be part of my life since Sept 2020. While my heart aches, it is full of beautiful moments with Cassy. She was my little Sassy Cassy and I loved her with everything I had in me.
She loved to go out for walks, run around the yard and take long naps on her back. I do hope I can eventually give another FFF a loving home to give them the best days left."
Nina
Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: September 3, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Stephanie & Eric Donely
Fans: Karyn Kim
Little Bear
Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: September 3, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Gary & Kelly Ravens
Fans: Cori Higley
Bunny
Acquired from: Animal Friends of the Valleys
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: September 3, 2020
Date of Passing: December 5, 2022
Family: Laurel Boyer
Fans: Nishant Bhajaria
Tribute: Frosted Face Bunny sadly passed away on December 5th.
Her family shared,
"We miss our little girl more than words can say. Every night we look for her in our nightly routine. There’s a hole in our household that only her big personality could fill. Rest easy little girl. We love you and miss you more than words could possibly express."
TOFU
Acquired from: Animal Friends of the Valleys
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: September 3, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Melanie Granfors & Jim Ito
Fans: The Holliday Family
Benji
Acquired from: Animal Friends of the Valleys
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: September 3, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Andreas & Bianca Lara Amann
Fans: Denise & Dwaine
Romeo
Acquired from: Animal Friends of the Valleys
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: September 3, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Anne Badgely
Fans: Dr. Mary Elizabeth Thorsby
Armada
Acquired from: East Valley Shelter-LA
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: September 3, 2020
Date of Passing: March 3rd, 2021
Family: Steven Lona
Fans: Sami Paterson
Tribute: On March 3rd, Steven fulfilled his promise to Frosted Face Armada.
Armada came to us with a very loud heart murmur and giant mammary masses. We did an echo to be sure she was safe to be anesthetized and performed the surgery to remove them. The cancer came back with a vengeance and left us few options.
Steven shares, "We saw Armada off to the next life around 11:18AM this morning. My dearly departed Nikki was on hand to pick her up, of that I'm certain.
I did my very best. I loved her so much and I'll miss her.
Thank you for the opportunity to not only give her a wonderful home but for her to give me another angel."
Jackman
Acquired from: East Valley Shelter-LA
Age upon Rescue: 6
Date of Rescue: September 3, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Laura Hopkins & Aziz Fathy
Fans: Karyn Kim
sprout
Acquired from: East Valley Shelter-LA
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: September 3, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Cheryl Aubry & Peter Lee
Fans: Michael Brourman
Crumpet
Acquired from: East Valley Shelter-LA
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: September 3, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Jacqueline Clegg
Fans: Jeremiah Evans
Fritz
Acquired from: East Valley Shelter-LA
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: September 3, 2020
Date of Passing: September 16th, 2021
Family: Gena Salorino & Kyle Vannoy
Fans: Carol, Mike & Debbie Coulter
Tribute: On September 28th, Gena and Kyle fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Fritz.
Gena shared,
"I'm so sad to tell you all that yesterday we made the very tough decision to let Fritz go. His condition worsened significantly over the past few days and I just knew it was time.
Thanks so much for taking such excellent care of him this past weekend. Thanks also for giving so much support and advice throughout our all too brief time with our favorite dog.
He was such a great guy. He slept in bed with us on his last night (something he never wanted to do before). We shared some french fries, his favorite. I miss him a lot.
Anyways, just wanted to let you all know. Thanks for bringing Fritz and I together we had a short time together but it was very very special."
ROMEO
Acquired from: East Valley Shelter-LA
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: September 3, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Kathy & Rich Lenhart
Fans: Sandra Buechner
Buddy
Acquired from: South LA Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 6
Date of Rescue: September 3, 2020
Date of Passing: April 27, 2023
Family: Shelley & Steven Flores
Fans: Sandra Buechner
Tribute: On April 27th, Shelley and Steven fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Buddy.
They shared,
"Last week we said goodbye to our Buddy. We found this beautiful boy at FFF 2 ½ years ago and brought him right home with us.
Buddy was such a stoic old gentleman – I never once saw him wag his tail or whine or even growl. But I knew that he loved me.
For the first three months we thought that he was mute – and then he started to bark, a textbook “woof“ and never stopped. He used his “woof” to demand things. Attention, food, a carry up the stairs – even fresh water as he would demand fresh water for every drink. Buddy was not affectionate at all. A nose bump on the leg was about as “touchy feely” as he got. But I knew that he loved me.
He was most content being with me up in my office all day – laying with his ears or paws wedged under my chair wheels so that I could not scoot and sneak away without alerting him. He was not able towards the end to navigate the stairs at all so we would carry him up and down on our laps, scooting up and down the stairs with him. I fixed a bedroom downstairs and my husband and I would take turns having sleep overs with our Buddy as he could not do the midnight bathroom break from upstairs.
I will miss my black and white shadow so much.
Buddy was a funny old guy, I knew when I would look into his eyes that he loved me.
I loved him more."