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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 info@frostedfacesfoundation.org.

Please make note of animals still looking for families do not have anyone listed beside “Family.” View 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 the care of Frosted Faces by registering as their monthly sponsoring Fan.  

Hemi

Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: December 7, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Stephen & Katie Wagner
Fans: Miya, Donor in memory of Buster

Shea

Acquired from: OC Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 15
Date of Rescue: December 7, 2020
Date of Passing: December 2oth, 2020
Family: Camille Andreasen & Cody Edgington
Fans: Kathy R.
Tribute: On December 20th, Camille fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Shea.

She was surrendered to the shelter when her guardian passed away. We exited her and diagnostics showed she was in end stage renal failure, so we knew we had to give her lots of love. One evening her temperature spiked so we took her to the vet where her CPL was abnormal, which means she had pancreatitis, but her liver values had sky rocketed from the previous week. Her chest was also wheezy, so we hit her hard with antibiotics and fluids. She started a turned corner to eat better and her temperature came down, so she left on a holiday Frosted Fling for special attention- as this would likely be her last. Unfortunately, Camille woke up to Shea feeling chilled one morning, so she went to the ER where we hospitalized her, but our most valiant efforts could not save our girl. Camille had only had Shea for days, but when our vets let us know we were losing Shea, Camille rushed to be at her side to let her go.

This is not what rescue looks like for us, as we had just taken responsibility of Shea and felt she deserved so much more. Perhaps the stress of significant change exacerbated her condition, and if so, she was destined to be with her mom in heaven.

Beau

Acquired from: OC Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: December 7, 2020
Date of Passing: June 3rd, 2022
Family: Joan Reif
Fans: Pamela Aikman
Tribute: On June 3rd, Joan fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Beau.

Beau was Joan's constant companion who rode in the basket on her walker to go on errands. He recently was not feeling well and was a frequent flyer to see Dr. Russell at FFF. Bloodwork and x-rays pointed to pancreatitis, which we treated, but he continued to decline. On Friday afternoon, Joan rushed Beau up to FFF where x-rays discovered his lungs suddenly filled with blood and we lost him.

Joan was just telling us that because she doesn't have any family or friends nearby, Beau was her little baby who she talked to daily and he was a good listener. He loved food and he was her best friend who could do no wrong.

Brioche

Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: December 7, 2020
Date of Passing: August 23rd, 2021
Family: Mai Cao
Fans: Stephanie Tillman
Tribute: "Dear baby:

I know you are darting around in the clouds right now barking at everything in sight. Did heaven give back your vision and missing eye that some bully took from you? Can you toss your toys up in the air again? Who’s leg are you hugging now? How’s life without your parents around? I bet my little cherub is tearing it up in heaven and learning to love her independence

For some reason, I think your separation anxiety is gone but it seems like I have it now. I hate walking out my door without you and I’d give back this new “freedom” in a second to have my favorite road dog and coworker back. Your Service Human is not the same without you.

From the moment you came home with me, we went on ADVENTURES! Joshua Tree, Solvang, San Francisco, Sonoma, Santa Barbara, Mexico, Las Vegas, Zion, Horseshoe Bend, Sedona, Palm Springs, Lake Tahoe, Paso Robles, Julian, Orange County...baby we did it all!!!! We went to more than 15 places in just 7 months together and girrrl I’ll remember our trips for the rest of my life.

You taught me to never give up and never make excuses no matter what life throws at you. And life threw a lot at you. At 10 yrs old, you were surrendered with an eye injury so bad from a dog fight that the shelter had to remove it...not to mention your one “good eye” was actually blind too. You had surgery to get a mummified fetus and mammary masses removed, spayed, and later learned that the tumor on your neck was malignant thyroid cancer. On top of the physical pain, you searched helplessly for love and it took you some time to find a forever family. Regardless of a broken heart and body, you soldiered through each day like a champion. I remember the day I picked you up at Frosted Faces just 1 day after surgery and you came FLYING down the hall at Frosted Faces to say hello. I was expecting a bed-ridden dog but it’s safe to say you always exceeded expectations since day 1. That’s why you’re Joss the Boss.

Life is what we make if it and you made life extraordinary. With your lead, we checked off more bucket-list items in 7 months than I’d done in 7 years. Thank you for changing my life. On my next road trip, I’ll play “a thousand years” for you and remember the love we had for each other. I love you baby.

After many weeks of declining health, Brioche passed away in her sleep the morning of August 23 at home on her favorite spot on the couch. We listened to music and “a thousand years” was playing when her belly never rose up again. That spot on the couch is hers. Forever and always.

Brodie

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: December 7, 2020
Date of Passing: March 14, 2023
Family: Jennifer Tran & Juan Teran
Fans: Little Hawk

Tribute: On March 14th, Jennifer fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Brodie after battling kidney disease.

Brodie loved sleeping in small spaces, he went to work with his mom, and especially loved playing fetch with his ball. Over the last month, he was not eating as much, seemed overly tired, and did not want to play. On Tuesday night he started vomiting and had what seemed like syncopal episodes of falling over. Poor Brodie was suffering, not breathing independently, and treatment was not working. Jennifer had to let him go. She relayed how heartbroken she was, as he was part of their little family.

Walter

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: December 8, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Tessia Summers
Fans: Sukman Chui

Lola

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 5
Date of Rescue: December 8, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Debbie DeLaCruz
Fans: RZ

Lily

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Escondido
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: December 8, 2020
Date of Passing: March 21, 2022
Family: Kimberly & Andreas Cadd
Fans: Kathy R.

Tribute: On March 21st, Kimberly and Andreas fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Lily after battling heart failure and kidney disease.

"We had to say goodbye to Lily. We miss her every hour of every day. It is the hardest decision we have ever made. Lily was our 3rd senior rescue, she was with us for the shortest time, but made the biggest impression on us. We thought we were prepared, but really had no idea how much of an impact she had on us until she was gone.

It's hard to sum up in a few paragraphs what life was like with Lily. She was the most loving dog we have ever met. She thought everyone was her friend. Lily would cross the street to go say hi to a 'stranger.'

She'd get happy when food was being cooked. She would start chasing her tail and yapping at it and then bring her bone in and set it in the kitchen for trade. She never begged though, she just stayed close by in case you wanted to share.

She came on pretty strong when other dogs were around. At first we thought she was dog aggressive, but then we realized that she was just really happy to meet them. She would get so excited, she would run at them barking, only to want to play once she got close to them.

She absolutely loved Cardiff Beach. It was her favorite place. If she wasn't climbing all over the boulders exploring, she was sniffing around trying to make new friends.

Lily was extremely camera shy. We had to get very creative in hiding the camera when taking her picture. I wish we had more selfies with her...

Whomever said you can't teach an old dog new tricks never owned a dog. We tought her to sit, shake, lay down etc. We bought a treadmill for ourselves and she let us know she wanted to walk on it. I heard her tapping her paws on it one day, and turned it on for her and she started walking.

I don't know what happens when it's our time to leave this planet, but I hope with every cell in my body that we get to be with our dogs.

Until we meet again Lily the Lover. 💗"

Pippa

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Escondido
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: December 8, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Diane Thomas
Fans: RZ

Travis

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Escondido
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: December 8, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Mary Widener
Fans: RZ

JAZZY

Acquired from: Chula Vista Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: December 8, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Diane Silva
Fans: Puchina

Mister ROSE

Acquired from: Baldwin Park Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: December 12, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Lyric Cox
Fans: Belisa & Chris Grefe, Kate Shelleu , Paige Tyley , Grace

Tribute: On October 18th, Lyric fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Mister Rose as a result of kidney disease.

Lyric shared,

"He crossed the bridge peacefully at home snuggled up to me 💔🌈🐾 I will miss him forever! Thanks for giving us 2 years 8.5 months together. He was loved by so many and gifted plants, flowers, donations to organizations, sympathy cards, and this candle."

Lola

Acquired from: Tijuana
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: December 13, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Gabriela Moreno
Fans: Taryn

Penny

Acquired from: Carlsbad Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: December 16, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Anne Provinzino & Jacob Schneider
Fans: Teasha Hutcheson

Anya

Acquired from: Chula Vista Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 15
Date of Rescue: December 16, 2020
Date of Passing: July 12th, 2021
Family: Erica & Andre Brousseau
Fans: Ingrid Romauch, Janelle Yonkovitch
Tribute: On July 12th, Andre and Erica fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Anya.

She shared,

"With a very heavy heart, I am letting you know that little Anya crossed the rainbow bridge this morning. She peacefully passed by euthanasia at our vets office, in my arms while I petted her and thanked her for everything.

The last couple of weeks we noticed some changes and she quickly started to slip away this past week. She started pacing at night, barking in fear, panting while not exerting herself, drinking unusual amounts of water, not being able to make it into her little bed, not wanting to eat (I never thought she would lose interest in food - especially peanut butter), stepping in her water bowl, not letting me clean her up, and forgetting who I am. It was obvious she was having a hard time remembering she was in a safe place and with safe people and feeling fearful and stressed. No combination of medicines and holistic treatments seemed to be making her comfortable any more.

She didn’t seem to be enjoying walks as much anymore, and would stop shortly after leaving our home. She spent almost her entire days sleeping.

I took her to the park the last two days and she got In and Out. We weren’t able to be at the park as long as in the past, and spent some time sitting instead of walking - however she had a moment or two of pure happiness.

I am so incredibly grateful for her. I only wish I could’ve met her 15 years sooner."

Abbie

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Escondido
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: December 16, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Jeanette Malanga
Fans: Scott & Kathy Ligman

Lucky

Acquired from:Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue:8
Date of Rescue:December 16, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Pat Gout
Fans: RZ

Baxter

Acquired from: OC Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: December 20, 2020
Date of Passing: October 25, 2021
Family: Madeline Farren
Fans: Millicent Townsend
Tribute: On October 25th, Madeline fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Baxter.

She shared, "He was a dear, sweet boy and I will miss him. Totally unresponsive to me or anyone, but I still loved him. He walked in circles and did like his food. He was a hospice dog from the day I adopted him but it was my pleasure to take care of him."

Although his adopter had few words, Baxter's long time foster, Carleen, had these sentiments to share, "Baxter was my very first foster and I just adored him. He was a very sweet and precious boy. He brought so much joy to my life to be able to help him.

He was my first introduction into fostering for Frosted Faces and I became hooked into fostering after my fling with Baxter that lasted 2 months until he was adopted. l am very grateful he was saved and I loved this guy. He totally stole my heart.

On Monday Madeline told me Baxter passed away. Very sad news to hear from her.

My heart is very sad, he was a beautiful, sweet boy. I’m Happy he got a forever home to be loved in his short time."

Okra

Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: December 21, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Stephany & Jesse Allen
Fans: Jennifer M.

Charlie

Acquired from: Carlsbad Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: December 29, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Harry & Barbara Southron
Fans: Coppelia Kuramata-Eder

Franky

Acquired from: Carlsbad Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: December 29, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Harry & Barbara Southron
Fans: Renata Santeli

Darling

Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: December 31, 2020
Date of Passing: January 12th, 2021
Family: Courtney Sanchez & Owen Olson
Fans: Kelly & Kyra Tripp
Tribute: On January 12th, Owen and Courtney fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Darling.

Everything was going according to plan. We were able to exit her from the shelter prematurely as a foster until her owners claimed her so that she would not have to sit in a kennel. She was getting all the loving from a foster family, and sat for a low dose dex test last week to affirm Cushing's disease. At the completion of the test, Courtney brought Darling home from the vet, who seemed wobbly on her feet a few hours later. Darling collapsed and Courtney rushed her to the ER, Animal Emergency Clinic of San Diego. We did ask for a necropsy, and they said she very likely passed from heart failure. We are all devastated.

Here, it had felt as if she had been dropped from the sky in need of help when I discovered her on my run on the side of the road. It was a promise we could make and keep. Darling was magnetizing and we wanted all good things for her for a long long time.

Courtney shares in memory,

"Thank you for the honor of being Darling’s family for the short time she was with us. She was truly the sweetest little dog, and it was impossible not to love her. Even our cranky anti-social cat was a fan. We gave her so much love, a ton of treats (maybe too many, but now I wish I’d given her more), and scratches, watched her enjoy the sun in her own backyard, and taught her about snuggling on furniture.

Her last night was a ride home from the vet while I scratched her ears the whole way, a special dinner of eggs, chicken, and her favorite treats with some yogurt mixed in (a reward for her long day at the vet), tail wagging, and cuddles. I held her the whole way to the emergency vet in Poway, so I hope she felt safe and loved as she left this world.

I wish we’d had more time with her, but we were so glad to be her family. I will miss her little tippy-taps, grunts of excitement, and blur of a tail."

Ysabel

Acquired from: Carlsbad Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 5 months
Date of Rescue: December 31, 2020
Date of Passing:
Family: Nuria Haro
Fans: Sandra Buechner, Lynn Petolicchio

Petey

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: January 5, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Charline Nickeson
Fans: Brenda Hisel

Leia

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: January 5, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Doric Buffington
Fans: Karen Schaffner

Roux

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: January 5, 2021
Date of Passing: November 18, 2022
Family: Billie Derrick
Fans: Angela Battle

Tribute: On November 18th, Billie fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Roux.

Billie was part of our Seniors for Seniors Program, and her daughter was very helpful getting her to appointments and keeping both ladies happy!

Unfortunately, Billie discovered her sweet girl had passed away during the night. She was curled up right beside her in bed and breathless.

She relayed,

"My mom loved taking Roux to the groomer to get all dolled up!

My mom is definitely having a hard time with the empty apartment and feeling the loss of Roux. When Roux had things her way, mom and her were never separated!

Mom always said Roux was such a sweet girl and Roux was a favorite of many people at mom's senior apartment complex. Roux is missed!"

meg

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 15
Date of Rescue: January 5, 2021
Date of Passing: July 31, 2022
Family: Gloria Talbert
Fans: Denise & Mike Reeves, Lisa Knuth, Lita Payne
Tribute: On July 31st, Gloria fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Meg.

"I am writing this on behalf of my mother, Gloria Talbert who is Meg’s adopted mama. On July 31, 2022, after being sick off and on, with her failing kidneys, we had to say goodbye to little Meg. My mom felt it best because Meg’s little body kept going through so many ups and downs.

My mom picked Meg out from the FFF adoption page. Funny because I picked her out too, without even discussing with my mom. We both knew she was the one! Meg, it seems, was passed up a few times by potential adopters. Meg was blind and her back legs were stiff. She wasn’t active or playful. She was just a little old lady who needed some love.

She quickly fit in with my mom. She sometimes wore diapers and always had on cute little outfits. The girl was always on the hunt for food. She’d wake up from a heavy snooze, if she smelled food. She’d eat like there was no tomorrow if she could. My mom figured out that several small meals a day would satisfy her, without getting her sick. She’s eat (even trying to eat the bowl a couple of times ) and fall right to sleep.

For being old and stiff, she could really get moving. Sometimes you’d turn away for a few seconds and she’d be so far away from where you just saw her! We were always amazed at her get-up-and-go! Stubborn too. If she was walking into a no-no zone, my mom would pick her up and turn her back to the direction she came from. Do you think Meg cared? Nope! She’d turn right back around and keep going to the No-no zone. This could happen 2 or 3 times until mom gave in and let Meg win. But no worries: Mom was always was there with her and kept her safe.

Mom would call Meg the Pez dispenser, because she could be carrying Meg and Meg would just poop and her little pebbles would come flying out like, well, a Pez dispenser.

Meg loved visiting my house. She loved her nice, quiet home, but I think she really loved the energy my house had. I have many dogs and cats and she went off of their energy. Plus, I have tile floors so she didn’t have to wear her diapers and could roam around as she pleased. I loved having her here too!

Meg was with my mom for a year and 4 months. My mom loved her so very much. She is thankful to FF for the opportunity to love this little girl. Meg had a strong will. She did very well for a dog who was “hospice” as 2 separate vets said. My mom knew when it was time. She knew her girl.

Rest now, sweet Meg. You will always be our family."

Piper

Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: January 5, 2021
Date of Passing: April 2, 2024
Family: Melanie & John Kopacz
Fans: Anne Morando, Heather, Tina

Tribute: On April 2nd, Melanie and John fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Piper.

They shared,

"We had to say “see you later” to our sweet girl baby, Mama Piper, yesterday morning. She fought hard to stay with us and we fought hard to keep her with us. We had just arrived at our new home in Colorado on Sunday. We are so grateful she was with us and knows exactly where we are. We love you and will miss you terribly, Piper. Life will not be the same without you here. 💔🐾"

Scotch Bonnet

Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 0
Born: January 23rd, 2021
Date of Passing: January 29th, 2021
Family: Frosted Face Foundation
Fans: RZ
Tribute: Piper's puppies have been doing so well, but two days ago it looked like the runt, Scotch Bonnet, was failing to thrive. She was not eating well and crying sad little constant cries. Piper tried desperately to help her.

We took her and the rest of the Pack of Piper's Peppers to the vet for check ups. Scotch Bonnet was examined and got a convenia injection. They administered some fluids and Dr. Hoard taught us how to tube feed her while also providing us with the supplies. Yesterday afternoon Dr. Lipman came by and also examined her and gave us more tools for success.

While Scotch Bonnet seemed to be adequately warmed again and tube feeding was going well, this morning it was clear she was suffering. Volunteer, Rick Hoffman, responded to an early morning text to please come grab our girl and get her to the vet where we could have her seen again.

Dr. Hoard let us know that she was dying and helped her cross. While we understand loss is typical in the first week, we are sad to see this innocent girl lose a chance at life.

We loved you, Scotch Bonnet.

Harper

Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 0
Born: January 23rd, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Jo & Rand Reed
Fans: RZ

Ancho

Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 0
Born: January 23rd, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Heather Osswald & Isaac Marks
Fans: In Memory of Cooper Beard

fINN

Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 0
Born: January 23rd, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Kristi & Rowdy Torrence
Fans: Nanette

Manny

Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 0
Born: January 23rd, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Shanna Keller
Fans: Barbara VanHorne

Phoenix

Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: January 5, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Liberty Zabala
Fans: Lita Payne, The Choi-Finn Family in loving memory of our beloved Rose Kennedy

Dublin

Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue:10
Date of Rescue: January 5, 2021
Date of Passing: January 6, 2022
Family: Judith & Stewart Pickell
Fans: Barbara VanHorne

Tribute: On January 6th, Judy and Stewart fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Dublin.

They shared,"With a very sad heart Our boy Dublin passed away. We picked him up from Frosted faces one year ago. When we picked up a this little boy he was in very sad shape. He had dementia, his back legs were out of joint so he was having a hard time walking. We think Dublin had been hit by car and FFF did FHO surgery on him. He couldn’t see or hear, but his heart was so big and warm. My husband and I fell in love with him at FF and we immediately adopted him.

For people that don’t know Dublin, he was an albino poodle and was so handsome. Dublin never met a dog he didn’t like or a human. My husband taught him how to walk up and down stairs to come into the house and he mastered them in no time. My husband also taught him how to use the dog door and even though he was blind he found a way to get in and out of the dog door, no problems. He was a true joy at dinner time he would trot into the kitchen and get all excited about his meal that he was about to have. Dublin wasn’t much for holding, he didn’t care for it too much and he really did have a independent disposition. That was my husband‘s boy, he was so proud of him and the accomplishments that he had made in the over a year.

As time went on, Dublin's dementia got worse. He used to be able to walk the two stairs, however now he couldn’t even find them. He would try to find his food and water but we had to help him. Dublin got where he would sleep all the time, when we needed to wake him up he would just walk in circles. He began to really have a hard time at everything he had enjoyed doing. This was so heartbreaking we knew that God would take him because his little heart was tired. This has been a very hard time for us he will always hold a special place in my heart and, above all, in my husband‘s. He was one of a kind and we loved him so much. I hope my Dublin has finally found peace and that he knows that his mom and dad loved him so much and we will never forget him. Rest in peace my beautiful baby boy."

OBI

Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 5
Date of Rescue: January 5, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: David Thompson-Stein
Fans: Mary Smith

winky

Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: January 5, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Richard & Karen Sherman
Fans: Holly N.

JOanne

Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 15
Date of Rescue: January 5, 2021
Date of Passing: October 12th, 2021
Family: Kery Shaw & Terran Baylor
Fans: Aurora , Sophie's Mom, Maria Scali, In memory of Sister Mercedes, Anais Langley
Tribute: On Tuesday October 12th Terran and Kery fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Joanne.

They shared,

"Where do I even begin. This is something I’ve been avoiding. In doing so is to admit the reality of Joanne being gone. The very thought of it breaks my heart. Even as I write this the tears fall down my face.

Mid August I honestly thought we were going to lose Joanne. Having a dog with kidney issues can be challenging, especially when they are older. She had become difficult to feed. Nothing seemed appealing to her. Terran and I would go through different foods. Since she was so underweight already, every meal counted. I would sit on the floor, holding Jo in my lap, stressed and begging her to eat. She never missed a meal during that time and we were able to find the right food for her. We brought her into our incredible doctor and to no surprise her levels were slightly elevated, after they had been stable for so long. Our vet assured us that it wasn’t anything too alarming and the numbers could be a lot worse. He said that we’ll just let Joanne lead the way and when she started showing symptoms, he can help us with a plan. At that point Joanne had made it very clear it wasn’t her time. For now we were advised to increase her fluids and do a recheck in a few weeks.

During those weeks Joanne also fell, hitting her face on the floor. It’s not a typical fall. Joanne would lay down in a position and at times would struggle getting up. If you didn’t catch it right away her body could flail. In addition, she was starting to lose grip in her feet. It didn’t happen all the time but it was alarming enough to us, when you have floors without carpeting. Having Gerald, our senior blind dog, we thought our house was pretty special needs proof . So when Joanne injured her face, it was pretty upsetting. Terran and I immediately had to reprioritize our lives, because her safety was key to us. We put padding and throw carpets around. It got to the point where out of fear we never left Joanne alone. If we ran an errand we would bring her with us or one of us would stay home with her. We even bought a pen for her, which we only had to use towards the end. At night she slept in between us. She wore bells so we could hear her movement.

Everything was going well and Joanne was getting better. I was hopeful that we would be able to celebrate some holidays with her. Thursday, October 7th we took her out to get doggy ice cream. She was having such a great day and was so happy. Then Saturday night I was up with her, throwing up all night. I thought maybe she drank too much water, but this seemed different. I contacted our doctor who would come to our house to evaluate her in the next couple of days. In the meantime we kept watching Joanne. It got to the point where I was syringe feeding her, she was very unstable and diapers would no longer stay on her. In a matter of days it was as though physically she was a different dog. Still, Joanne was very vibrant and happy. She was holding on strong. Tuesday, though we saw the light leaving from Joanne and knew it was time. As I handed her to our doctor we saw her let go. He then helped Joanne crossed peacefully.

I remember standing in the kitchen that day while Terran was holding me, as the tears poured down. He said, “This is what we signed up for.” I told him I know. We've lost six seniors in the last couple of years. It never gets easier. We talked about how different and even how much “easier” they would be. Inside I knew I didn’t want it to be easier, if it meant a life without Joanne. We only had Jo nine and half months but what a huge part of our lives she was. Terran and I fell in love with Joanne from the very start. She was so affectionate and easy to love. Joanne loved fuzzy blankets, sun bathing, stroller walks, cuddles, treats and lots of attention. Towards the end she even enjoyed watching television. When she was happy, you knew it. Her whole face would light up and she would give you this big smile. Joanne was funny. I wish people got to see that side of her. She would make biscuits on Mister Rogers. Joanne also loved Gerald, our senior blind dog. She would follow him, which he didn’t love. If he was in a bed she wanted, Joanne would bother him until he moved. She had such a big personality. The house feels very empty without Joanne and there isn’t a day that our hearts don’t ache for her. Terran and I can not thank Kelly, Andy and the rest of the FF Family for their love and support. It was a privilege and an honor being her family and being with her until her final days. We’ll be forever grateful to Frosted Faces for their dedication, compassion and mission."

Jules

Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: January 5, 2021
Date of Passing: June 29, 2022
Family: Lori Woodward & Joe Palomina
Fans: Vanessa Bernal, Donna Beinfeld, Dana Triolo, Rachele Williams

Tribute: On June 29th, Lori and Joe fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Jules.

They shared,

"Some of you may remember that Jules came to Frosted Faces as a very sick girl, she was struggling to breathe and had no hair on her back or her tail. Staff and volunteers worried that she may pass at any point. Thankfully she was able to pull through with proper veterinary care and tons of love from Frosted Faces.

We brought Jules home 15 months ago. She was the perfect house guest. She was very polite to people and dogs and we never once heard her bark, growl, or whine. Our main health challenge was her advanced arthritis, but we worked with our vet to relieve her pain as much as we could. She got acupuncture regularly. She began to thrive and grew a very thick coat of fur.

About a year later Jules requested a boyfriend so we returned to Frosted Faces and brought home Waylon, formerly known as Duke. Jules and Waylon were quite the pair and it was great fun seeing them together. They moved at the same pace and were together most of the time.

Our daily family ritual is to go out for coffee and to get the dogs an egg and cheese sandwich. Jules and Waylon both learned this routine quickly and our morning call for ‘Who’s ready for egg and cheese???’ would get them both moving toward the door. We estimate that Julesie got to go for egg and cheese about 450 times. The best part of her day. And ours.

Less than 3 weeks ago, we had to say goodbye to Waylon. And this week our sweet Jules. Her decline was gradual and we kept adjusting to her new normal. There was no definitive urgent moment. But taking a step back, she was in pain more than she was happy. Still she still had those moments where she would look at me with those bright eyes. Ugh, we just miss her. The house feels very strange now with no seniors.

We were happy to be her family for 15 months. It’s never enough time. We miss you baby girl."

clyde

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society- Oceanside
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: January 6, 2021
Date of Passing: July 3, 2023
Family: Homero Sanchez & Karen Gustafson
Fans: Stephanie Tillman

Tribute: On July 3rd, Homero and Karen fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Clyde. He battled heart disease and a collapsing trachea. They will miss him dearly.

oREO

Acquired from: Ramona Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 6
Date of Rescue: January 7, 2021
Date of Passing: April 28, 2023
Family: Seema Varma & Anuj Kashyap
Fans: Marnee Carpenter & Nic Harvard, Gail Shirley, Lina Leslie

Tribute: On April 28th, Seema and Anuj fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Oreo. Unfortunately they noticed him coughing, escalating to respiratory distress. X-rays showed his entire abdomen filled with air like he must have suffered a perforation from something. We sent his x-rays to a couple surgeons and they all shared that he had a grave prognosis and advised we let him go.

Seema shared,

"We still are in shock over his abrupt passing. We miss him a lot, especially his beautiful big brown eyes. He wasn’t demanding or loud but the house seems so quiet and big without him. We loved him fiercely and 2 years was not enough time.

We’d like to thank everyone at FFF and Oreo’s Fans. Thank you everyone at FFF for everything you did for him and us. We are lost and heart broken."

Nugget

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Escondido
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: January 7, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Susan Batterman
Fans: Felicita Trueblood

Cardi B

Acquired from: Coachella Valley Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: January 7, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Kennon & Sheri Kwok
Fans: Barbara Ann Hoff

Buster

Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: January 9, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Charla & Jeremy De la Cuadra
Fans: Dawn Cummings

Tribute: On October 26th, Charla and Jeremy fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Buster.

They shared,

"Our Buster crossed the Rainbow Bridge this past weekend. We are so gutted that he is gone. We thought we would have several more years of his spicy, loving, silly, joyous presence in our lives, but it seems his heart was just too big. He went into heart failure and just wasn’t responding to meds. Run free, little love. We miss you so, so much.

Buster was a euth-listed fear biter who spent a year at Frosted Faces after he was pulled from the shelter system. I saw his goofy, smiley photo from the first and was immediately rooting for him. I watched his progress at FFF and hoped so hard for a forever home for him, and as his one year anniversary came and went, I showed his photos to my husband more and more, wondering if maybe a third member of our pack might be feasible after all. We finally met with Kelly, met Buster, and tentatively agreed to a two week trial. We were uncertain if we could handle his aggression but were wholeheartedly willing to try.

By the second day he was asking for pets - very surprising! - and although the first few weeks were rough with our cat and our smallest dog, Finn, we pushed through and came out on the other side with the loyalest love bug you ever did see.

Buster had such a happy, purposeful little trot. He always seemed busy, looking for a sock, then hiding it in one place or another, lunging after the cat if she seemed too relaxed, relocating the aforementioned sock, scratching a blanket into a good napping spot, etc. He loved us fiercely and was always licking our faces or nudging our hands for more pets and scritches. It was such a joy to see him blossom. His fur was so soft and smooth. He loved walks but he loved coming home even more. He was not a cuddler, per se, but he preferred to lay down so he was close enough to touch my hip when I was sitting on the bed, or be nested in a blanket nearby if I was sitting on the couch. Or he’d climb up onto Jeremy’s lap like it was Pride Rock to come lick his chin. Buster was also super smart. His dachshund body and short stature did not deter him from trying to get food off the dining room table. He’d jump up onto a dining chair and then wriggle his way up onto the table. Once or twice I came home to him standing on the table, wagging his tail so hard with accomplishment that his whole body was wriggling.

Buster, our bold, brave, always wagging, spicy little sausage. We love you more than words can ever say. Thank you for blessing our lives with so much love and joy and laughter. Thank you to everyone at FFF who loved him so, especially to all his “aunties” who got him through that first year. Run free, little love, and we’ll see you at the Rainbow Bridge."

Admiral

Acquired from: South LA Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 7
Date of Rescue: January 10, 2021
Date of Passing: July 19, 2022
Family: Andy & Kelly Smisek
Fans: Jill Wagner, Kathryn and Tom Iannucci; Jeff & Sam Marxen

Tribute: On July 19th, we fulfilled our promise to Frosted Face Admiral.

Admiral lived at FFF for months, a bully breed big boy going nowhere fast, until he was lucky enough to be chosen as a foster by Christina Santos. She loved him as her own for nearly a year, carting him to and from adoption appointments. Every time Andy and I hosted those appointments, we discussed how much we loved him and how we should keep him for ourselves.

In March, we decided to bite the bullet and move him in with the Smíšeks. Christina immediately chose a new foster, adoptable Frosted Face Forest, and still has the pleasure of loving on him in his golden age. It was a beautiful transfer that benefited two lucky pits.

Admiral had stage 3 kidney disease that progressively got worse. He was on medication for blood pressure, epakitin, and daily subQ fluids. We knew we needed to pack a lot of love into a small amount of time. We did ALL the beach days, brunches, a concert in the park, a handful of hikes, and oh so many cuddles on the tiny orange couch! He was such a giant gentleman with our other fosters and blended perfectly into our pack.

Two months ago we discovered a giant hemangiosarcoma where is scrotum used to be which quickly developed into significant hemangio masses all over his back, up his neck, and down his legs. We had never seen anything like it. We diapered him to cover the mess and prevent further rupture, and he thought that was A-okay! An ultrasound identified a mass on his spleen and when we heard coughing, we found blood in Admiral's lungs. Still, resilient Admiral wanted to live on and so we continued supportive care with Yunnan Baiyao and antibiotics.

It was when we could not get Admiral to eat for a series of days, and his coughing became significantly worse, that we were warned to let him go before he would endure more suffering.

As any person who adopts a senior dog will tell you, I wish we would have known him his whole life and committed to him far earlier. Andy and I were sitting together last night, when he turned to me to say he felt this heavy, quieting, unshakable grief that he didn't know how to discuss or lessen; and so we wade in it as time passes.

I know our tagline is usually, "If not you, then who?", other than the pain of losing him, choosing Admiral to be part of our lives and having the privilege of loving him for even just a short while was no sacrifice. Admiral gives life to a new tagline for senior pet adoption,

“If not now, then when?"

I wish we would've leapt for Ads sooner, had more good time with him- we could've loved him forever. He was one of the greats. At the same time, he was so lucky to be loved by FFF volunteers and Christina while we sat back and waited for someone else to adopt him. We have included several photos of his time with them!

Thank you to Jill Wagner, Kathryn and Tom Iannucci, and Jeff and Sam Marxen for being Admiral's Fan to help cover his lifelong care. Taking care of senior after senior is certainly something that compels us, but it's a costly calling. Thank you for empowering us to continue welcoming the seniors into our home, knowing they can receive ongoing quality veterinary care without the personal financial burden. Your contributions make this program possible and see seniors into homes.

Monroe

Acquired from: South LA Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: January 10, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: RoyalFriedly
Fans: Karen Billington, Lynn Petolicchio

Kola

Acquired from: South LA Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: January 10, 2021
Date of Passing: July 15th, 2021
Family: Jen Burrell
Fans:@Love.You.Manu, Marty Russell
Tribute: On July 15th, Jen fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Kola.

Jen shared,

"Kola bear was small but mighty, judging by the space I feel she has left behind. Even though she was only with me 10 weeks, I know a lot of us loved her since January. When she came home, I made her my shadow, by my side most of the day and night except for once or twice a week when she could be checked on by my partner. I regret not taking her home sooner.

From the start, she brightened with one on one attention, from the many volunteers who took her on outings and fed her yummy treats to her loving physical therapy and acupuncture treatments. At home, we had daily walks, explored San Diego, hung on the couch or in the yard with her brother and sister and snuggled in bed. I scratched her chin as much as possible and she chomped her teeth at me every morning when I picked her up to remind me who was boss.

Kolas frail body gained strength over her 7 months with frosted faces and she did laps in our yard at night. Unfortunately, it was always a challenge for her to move how she needed. Recently she struggled more throughout the day and night and couldn’t walk without support. Whether it was frustration or CCD-related, I saw her increasing discomfort and tried to support her dignity as long as I could.

I pray my precious, feisty girl is running free with her frosted friends and that I will see her again some day. Thank you Frosted Faces for saving her and entrusting her to me. Thank you to everyone who loved her and spent time with her this year to help give her a peaceful final chapter."

Lumpia

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Escondido
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: January 12, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Louis & David Bonsangue
Fans: Leah Richardson

Brees

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Escondido
Age upon Rescue: 7
Date of Rescue: January 12, 2021
Date of Passing: August 8, 2022
Family: Louis & David Bonsangue
Fans: Rosemary Luna

Tribute: On August 8th, David and Louis fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Brees.

"Our beloved rescue dog, Brees, was put to sleep August 8th at Veterinary Specialty Hospital. Last year he developed lymphoma cancer, but with chemotherapy he was cancer free for six months.

Then about five weeks ago he started to snort up blood. Our local vet diagnosed that he had four bad teeth which were removed. After two weeks he eat occasionally and started again to snort up blood. We took him again to VSH and they advised that he should have an MRI. After the MRI they found cancer had spread to his brain. Also cancer had spread to his nose and eye. With no hope for him we had him euthanized.

He now rests with the angels. He is buried with all of our other babies at West Coast Pet Memorial Park. We miss him terribly. His sister, Lumpia, misses him very much. We give her all the love we have."

Stewie

Acquired from: Final Wish
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: January 12, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Carleen Blandin
Fans: Susan Thomas

Chip

Acquired from: Final Wish
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: January 12, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Megumi Canup
Fans: Vikki and Arnie Medrano

Molly Moo

Acquired from: OC Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 7
Date of Rescue: January 13, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Lois & Barry Grigg
Fans: Caryn & Michael Rosenstein

teddy

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: January 13, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Debbie & Ric Bartlett
Fans: Sally Grosset-Killmar, Bermond Critters

Bella

Acquired from: Final Wish
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: January 13, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Sherley Monroig & Charles Viana
Fans: Shani Rosenzweig

Cider

Acquired from: Animal Friends of the Valleys
Age upon Rescue: 7
Date of Rescue: January 15, 2021
Date of Passing: March 23rd, 2021
Family: Lauren Wigen & Max Herberg
Fans: Candace Frederick, Debbie R
Tribute: On March 23rd, Lauren and Max fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Cider.

Cider came to us with mast cell tumors all over his back end. One was ugly and ulcerated, bleeding all over his leg so we decided to remove that one for comfort. The biopsy came back as a grade 3 aggressive mast cell tumor and we knew time was ticking. The cancer spread rapidly, and we tried all kinds of medications to keep infection and inflammation at bay. There was no way to even amputate Cider's leg to rid him of the cancer, or we very well may have done it!

Cider was bright-eyed and ready for adventure. I mean, gawd, he couldn't have possibly sparkled any more making the decision as to whether it was fair to let him keep on with his back end pretty much falling apart painfully difficult. His poor mom even came by FFF with tears stinging her face as if she was betraying Cider, asking what to do and a second opinion.

In the end, on Cider's last two days, he was very lethargic and not eating. We knew we didn't need to "wait and see" with more diagnostics as we typically do. It was Cider's gift to us as if to say, "I am ready."

Lauren writes, "Cider passed peacefully at the vet this afternoon. He had a burger and milkshake for lunch and then passed with his head in Max’s lap. I’m comforted knowing that we knew it was his time and didn’t have to guess.

Max said to include his love of double doubles from In N Out. And he loved to snack on carrots (and ice cream, and chicken, and tacos, and really any snacks he could get his paws on).

He never met a person he didn’t like, but Max was always his favorite. He would follow Max around the house and barked if he left the room. I’m glad he felt such a connection despite not being here for long.

Other than that, he was just such a tough dog who showed no pain. Despite this, he was just such a happy and sweet boy. We miss our big ol’ hippo.

Thanks for letting us love this sweet boy."