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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.  

Corky Lee

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: February 9, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Norma & Ed Price
Fans: RZ

Jello

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: February 9, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Anna Shipley & Tom Russell
Fans: Shelli Perez, Daniela & Andrew Matassa

Fraggle

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: February 9, 2021
Date of Passing: January 3, 2023
Family: Pat & Mihoko Zaun
Fans: Joni Duke, Jane Nguyen

Tribute: On January 3rd, Pat and Mihoko fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Fraggle.

They shared,

"He didn't play with the other two dogs, but they were always next each other. His skin was a little dry, we had to cut his hair very short in the end. He had his own way, but he made me happy.

He passed away peacefully on January 3rd and we cremated him. My family and our two dogs miss him, but we have a great memory of Fraggle."

Nora

Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 18
Date of Rescue: February 11, 2021
Date of Passing: December 15, 2022
Family: Brittany & Travis Saam
Fans: Lidia Meze, Shannon Linch, Sherri Shaw

Tribute: On December 15th, Brittany and Travis fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Nora.

They shared,

"I have found it very difficult to come up with words to express the amount sadness since the passing of our princess Nora. I have gone back and forth on how I wanted to write her tribute. Instead of telling you all how sad I am and how much my heart aches, I've decided to share with you all how wonderful it is to adopt a senior dog.

When I first saw you Nora, I knew I wanted to be your mom, your caretaker, your servant. When I found out you were completely blind, I'll admit I was nervous and had no idea how you would adapt. Little did I know you would have no problem, finding all the comfy and fluffy beds, blankets and pillows laid out on the floor for you. Oh, how your bed collection grew and grew. You navigated yourself around the house and knew how to get outside to go potty in no time.

I'll miss your little grunts and groans you made when you were hungry, I'll miss you bossing me around until you got the attention you wanted, I'll miss watching you rub your face in the grass, I'll miss watching you nap in one of the many beds you had. Nora, you made mamma and pappa smile every single day. We will forever cherish the wonderful 664 days we had with you. We loved you with all we had, and I think you knew and for that we are grateful."

Grandma

Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 15
Date of Rescue: February 11, 2021
Date of Passing: August 19, 2022
Family: Raquel & Marcus David
Fans: Donor In Memory of Ruby

Tribute: On August 19th, Raquel and Marcus fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Grandma.

"Our girl, Grandma! We said good bye to her on August 19, 2022 and it's been very hard to write this memorial. I feel like she had so much life in the little time that we had her. We learned that she was really good at making a bed out of anything, she loved looking at herself in the mirror, she hated when other dogs barked and she always got spicy at the vet. Her personality came out as soon as we brought her home and it felt like we've had her for years. The way she got the little zoomies after pooping and right before having a treat or the way she always shared a bed with Panko and any other dog that came over to our house showed that she really chose us as her people. She's the kind of dog you want to squeeze and hug because she looks so cute but she would rather you keep your distance and was ok with soft kisses to her forehead.

Panko chose her when we met her at Frosted Faces and he always knew what was wrong with her before we did. A few months after adopting her, Grandma developed seizures after a long road trip. Those seizures were full body and took her days to recover and get back to normal. The best we could do was provide her medication that made the seizures less frequent and a comfortable home so she was always safe.

She didn't recover from her last seizure and we knew that her little body just couldn't handle it anymore. Panko would lay with her when he knew she wasn't feeling well and during her last days, he never left her side. We miss our girl so much and miss seeing her sleeping on every bed in the house. It brings tears writing this memorial but I'm so glad we were able have her in our lives and that she is no longer in pain.

Thank you to Frosted Faces for taking her in and bringing her into our family. She will always have a special place in our home and in our hearts."

Olive

Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: February 11, 2021
Date of Passing: June 4, 2024
Family: Steve & Doreen Smith
Fans: Carolyn Evans

Tribute: On June 4th, Steve and Doreen fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Olive.

They shared,

"Run free sweet olive . We are heartbroken by the loss of our beloved sweet baby olive . Something happened and she was mentally in distress and it was hard to witness that. Her quality of life was gone and she was unaware of where she was. We are thankful to Frosted Faces Foundation for rescuing her so we could have over 4 years with our sweet girl . I know Cocoa, Cinna and Molly were there to greet her. She will be forever in our hearts. Be at peace sweet girl . As Steve Smith says about our girl : Olive was a special little girl. When God made her he put extra cuteness in the mix. She went through so much just in the fours years we were blessed to have her. We always said she was one tough old lady. We will miss her greatly.We all know this is what we agree to when we live in the senior dog adoption world.But we know she is at peace now. Our comfort is we know we gave her and all the others we have lost the best life possible in whatever time they had left."

Biscuit

Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: February 11, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Donald & Shirley Lovitt
Fans: Rob and Stephanie Lamoureux

Fritz

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: February 12, 2021
Date of Passing: April 27, 2024
Family: Jenny Shultz
Fans: Stacy LaFrance, Jane Nguyen

Tribute: On April 27th, Jenny fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Fritz.

Jenny shared,

"Fritz (FKA Brobie) also known as Fritzie, Fritzie Ditzie, Fritzalicious, Fritzie Ritzie, Sir, Bubba, Buddy, and Old Man, passed away on April 27th.

Fritz had a Vestibular episode in April which I thought was a stroke, but VD was confirmed by our vet. During a follow up visit the vet felt and heard something in his chest, which turned out to be a lot of fluid. Diagnostics and the radiologist confirmed that Fritzie didn’t have long. After about a week he could no longer get up to go potty on his own, and although he let me use a Help Em Up harness to get him out to the yard, he was no longer interested in eating or drinking and I knew it was time.

In the 3 years he was with me he provided comfort and companionship to my sweet Effie in her final days, he was a nanny dog and “raised” 4 very sweet, very dog-friendly hens, he welcomed 4 other senior dogs into his home and showed them “the ropes”, and he made sure that I knew I was loved every single second of every day.

As a 14yo GSD, Fritzie was quite impressive - mentally he was all there, he could see and hear perfectly, but in the end his body betrayed him. Rest in Paradise Fritzie - I’ll meet you on the other side."

Auggie

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: February 12, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Wendy Lipman & Richard Burg
Fans: Mike & Yovie H

Archi

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: February 12, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Danielle & Simon Yee
Fans: Brandon & Valarie Goodwin

Honey Buns

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: February 12, 2021
Date of Passing: May 6th, 2021
Family: Robert & Elaine Marcoux
Fans: Bonnie Sposato
Tribute: On May 6th, Robert and Elaine fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Honey Buns.

We had done a cystotomy just three day prior because he had bladder stones in his urethra preventing him from urinating comfortably. So many "what ifs" here, but we all are just doing the best we can for these guys mounted on hope. His family was the most hopeful of all, which is terribly refreshing to witness for these once abandoned senior dogs, miss him so very much and the loss stings.

They share,

"Elaine and I feel blessed that Frosted Faces allowed us to care for Honey Buns during the twilight of his years. We spent many happy hours in bed with Honey Buns between us. We may only have had 3 months with Honey Buns, but we will never forget the love and laughter he brought to our home."

Louie

Acquired from: SPCA LA Long Beach
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: February 12, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Melissa Goral
Fans: Karol Holman, Stacey Simmons

Sir Duke

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Escondido
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: February 14, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Nicole Kerns
Fans: Pamela Oosterhuis

Bethany

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Escondido
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: February 14, 2021
Date of Passing: June 13th, 2021
Family: Candace & Joshua Frederick
Fans: Sami Peterson
Tribute: On June 13th, Candace and Joshua fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Bethany after battling kidney failure.

They shared,

"Yesterday we said goodbye to our beautiful girl, Beth.

Our hearts are broken.

We were so very lucky to have her in our lives, even if not for long. Thank you Frosted Faces Foundation for making it possible. We would do it all again a million times over.

We love you little girl. We miss you terribly. Thank you for letting us love you."

MollyAna

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Escondido
Age upon Rescue: 6
Date of Rescue: February 14, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Nancy Lewis
Fans: Jennifer P., Renna, Lois Chisholm, Mama In Memory of Sammy

aBby

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 7
Date of Rescue: February 15, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Lauren Weiss
Fans: Lisa Lind

Bazil

Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: February 16, 2021
Date of Passing: June 25, 2022
Family: Sarah & Matt Bredel
Fans: Brandon & Valarie Goodwin

Tribute: On June 25th, Sarah and Matt fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Bazil after battling cancer.

We rescued Bazil when his guardian had passed away. He had dental surgery and a splenectomy right away, and found a big loving family!

He was a constant companion, especially to their kids! He went to the park, helped with homework, always got to ride along in the car, and was the best napping buddy!

Fly high, Bazil! ❤

Buffalo

Acquired from: Rancho Cucamonga Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: February 16, 2021
Date of Passing: August 26, 2021
Family: Audette & Mike Morales
Fans: Otto & Leah
Tribute: On August 26th, Michael and Audette fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Buffalo.

"When our previous dog, Dirk, passed away 2 years ago, we knew nothing could replace him. Although we subsequently got a cat, our family still felt like it was missing something. In talking with our delivery person earlier this year, we found out about an elderly boxer that was good with cats. That is when we were introduced to Buffalo.

Buffalo was essentially everything good about a dog for our family: Loving, affectionate, playful, although not so playful as to scare our cat. He loved going for long walks around our neighborhood, and especially loved all the other dogs we got to meet. Buffalo was one of those dogs that was immediately friendly with every person he encountered. He made lasting impressions, not just with his exceptional personality, but also with his amazingly soft fur coat (it was the thing people remarked on the most when meeting him!).

Buffalo was good about making his feelings known. If you were not paying enough attention to him, he would crawl up on the couch with you and stare at you until he received the pat on the head. Then he would sleep on you, frequently barking at what I assume were rabbits he was chasing in his dreams.

Although his time with our family was short, he has made a lasting impression on all of us. We are glad to have known him and to have provided a loving, caring place for him to call home. We will miss him, and we are thankful to Frosted Faces for giving us the opportunity to get to know our wonderful dog."

Tess

Acquired from: Rancho Cucamonga Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: February 16, 2021
Date of Passing: November 30, 2022
Family: Bob Martin & Diane Baily
Fans: Shauna Ianni

Tribute: On November 30th, Bob and Diane fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Tess after battling bone cancer.

They shared,

"As you know, this is the worst part about having a pet. But the joy of having one, far exceeds the pain.

Every animal deserves to be treated with love, they are truly a gift.

Your organization is amazing and I tell everyone.

Thanks for all that you do for all the fur babies."

Hera

Acquired from: Riverside Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: February 16, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Shelby & Edward Smock
Fans: Kimm Reed, Snoopy’s Mom

Archer

Acquired from: Downey Los Angeles County Animal Care Control
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: February 17, 2021
Date of Passing: September 23, 2022
Family: Susan Salinas
Fans: Jane Nguyen, Jeri O’Donnell

Tribute: On September 23rd, Susan fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Archer.

"Archer”, 15-1/2 year old, had his last breath this morning.

Our history:

Sometime in March 2021, he allowed me to foster him during the hospice. Eventually, he became stable with medications for his collapsed trachea, lung infection, heart disease and anxiety.

Five months later, both Frosted Faces & College Hospital gave us the "okay” to drive cross country, nearly 3,000 miles trek in 2 weeks period.

Archer never stop letting me know his loud opinion about the SUV whenever the motor was running; he absolutely hated it. He loved snuggled inside shoulder sling carrier and loved the attention from strangers. I used to tease that Archer loved shopping and didn't spend any money. In Auburn, Massachusetts, he loved living with me and my two roommates in a small cozy house with a huge backyard. He managed to survive the winter season but with a great dislike for the bitter cold weather. Personally, I think the driving was the worst for him. Archer loved sunbathing as long as I was within sight. As his vision worsened, his radar ears were always waiting for my claps so he could find his way to me or just know where I was before returning to the highlight of his day: his lengthy naps.

Last night, he slept with me which he hasn’t done since we left San Diego. This morning we had our last eye contact and within the hour, he passed.

Archer lived much longer than I expected! No matter how prepared I was, it was with a heavy heart to lose him.

Archer, thank you for teaching me how to love a small creature like yourself. Thank you for your paw prints imprinted in my heart."

Miranda

Acquired from: Downey Los Angeles County Animal Care Control
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: February 17, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Andrew Listvinsky
Fans: William Kim

Brenda

Acquired from: Chula Vista Animal Care Facility
Age upon Rescue: 7
Date of Rescue: February 17, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Annette & Richard Price
Fans: Autumn

Pico

Acquired from: Chula Vista Animal Care Facility
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: February 17, 2021
Date of Passing: February 7, 2022
Family: Mi Linda & Craig Tolson
Fans: Donor in memory of Wally Tolson, Jane Nguyen

Tribute: On February 7th, Mi Linda and Craig fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Pico.

They shared,

"A good friend told me; "Some little spirits have a way of changing us forever simply with their existence."

Almost one year ago, We met Pico through the Frosted Faces website and would visit Pico during the weekends. Then one day, Pico followed us to the exit gate at the Frosted Faces Foundation home. Days rolled on... I was counting my days anticipating the weekend. We took Pico in as a foster. Three days later we knew his home was with us. I truly feel (I know) we were meant to find each other and knew this the moment I saw him.

Our bed is going to feel empty...Today we held, cried and kissed Pico goodnight one last time. This morning, Pico collapsed in our back garden with labored breathing. At 2:04 PM, Pico peacefully crossed over to the Rainbow Bridge while sleeping on mine and Craig Tolson lap with Nana by his side.

His health issues always came in waves, but we would always find a way to spring back . Pico's cough eventually faded and we were so relieved knowing we will have this guy a little longer. And we did..

Pico is such a bright light in our hearts. We have never met another animal like him, he is special. Gentle and loving with all around him. He welcomed all. He loved BIG for being so small and sometimes not feeling his best, Pico would make an effort to run towards us. He spent most of his days in the kitchen playing sous-chef. Nothing caught his attention more than (dog) ice cream. He enjoyed cuddles, early mornings and being with family. He loved his Nana and Tata, often checking in their room making sure they were there. He was never kept on his own and always traveled with us; Palm Springs where folk at the Shag Store loved up on him, Solvang, Arizona Santa Barbara, (Disneyland) California Grand and Hollywood... he was even spotted by another Frosted Faces Family member at Marshall's shopping! He loved shopping with us.

Thank you, Frosted Faces Foundation and Frosted Faces family for being part of his life providing love, comfort and a home. Thank you for your support, trust and kindness with us. We are heartbroken, tired and thankful having such an amazing soul in our lives.

Pico will always be forever in our hearts. We love you more than we can express into words and miss you enormously.

Copper

Acquired from: Ramona Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: February 18, 2021
Date of Passing: October 26, 2022
Family: Karess Nguyen & Quyen Lieu
Fans: Chris & Anne-Marie Coman

Tribute: On October 26th. Karess fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Copper.

She shared,

"Copper was such a good boy. He was always so happy, even up until the very last second of his life. I’d like to thank everyone who made it possible for him to have another chance at a forever family with me. Thank you Lina Leslie for advocating him across social media outlets. Thank you Kelly for allowing him to be a Frosted Face and to all his foster families (Julia & Stacy) as well. Thank you to all the volunteers that spent time with him on site and to all his fans who supported him monthly. Thank you to everyone and anyone who has made an impact on his life.

When I adopted him I knew I wouldn’t have all the time in the world with him and at the time I was okay with that. I had wanted to get another senior because his sister, Butter (non FF) was too easy. It was expected he’d be with me anywhere from 6 months to 1 year. I ended up getting about a year and a half with him. It wouldn’t matter if I had more time with him. No amount of time would ever be enough. Nevertheless It’s been a honor being able to be his mom.

Going on car rides and going to the beach were some of his most favorite activities. If he saw a car door open, he’d give me the “are we going for a ride look?” Sometimes he’d wait outside a car door and would give me a “come on, open the door!!!” sort of look. He’d take up the entire back seat of the car while his sister took the front passenger seat. He and his sister didn’t get along but they knew how to respect one another.

Copper was lovable guy. It wouldn’t take long for people and other dogs to like him. They loved how calm, sweet, and gentle he was. My niece and nephew had been scared of dogs because of his sister (Butter) for having a spicier personality. If it weren’t for Copper, they would still be hesitant to approach dogs. They loved playing fetch and dressing him up in outfits. My niece especially loved making up dates to celebrate “Copper’s birthday” so she could buy a cake in honor of him.

Copper is the biggest dog I’ve ever had. It’s strange not having him around anymore. He followed me everywhere I’d go. It didn’t matter if I left for a minute to go to grab a snack from the kitchen — he’d go down and back up the stairs with me. I’m also notorious for falling asleep in the bathtub for hours and he’d wait outside the door the entire time as well. No one would ever be able to get him to budge from the bathroom door. I was the only person he’d fully listen to. The first few months, he’d cry and howl for me even when there were other family members around to keep him company. There were other times I’d pull all-nighters and he’d randomly get vocal and demand I go to bed.

It’s been difficult for me to drive back home and face the fact that I won’t be seeing him there. I’ve caught his sister sniffing out some of his spots and the toys he’d play with as well. She never seemed to care for him too much but I think she misses him too.

Copper was so strong and loyal. During his last month, he never wanted to let anyone know that he was in pain. He would never stop fetching, playing with toys, going up and down the stairs, and getting up on couches and beds. He made it seem like he needed to guard and protect myself and his sister more than ever when we went on walks later at night. It was extremely difficult for me to assess his quality of life. Everyone who didn’t see him on a daily basis would tell me he looked fine but I knew he wasn’t. I wanted to be like everyone and believe he was fine, but I knew. Kelly, Dr. Russell, Jennifer Rothman and everyone at Frosted Faces had been amazing to work and communicate with. Despite the support I’ve gotten, I still find myself going back and forth from feeling like the worst person in the world to feeling relieved that he no longer has to pretend he’s not in pain anymore. It’s hard to believe I gave him everything I could. I can only hope that I did. When the time is right, I hope to be able to rescue another Frosted Face or senior. Seniors are truly the best and have so much to give in the little time they have left."

Lucy

Acquired from: Animal Friends of the Valleys
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: February 18, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Cori Tomkiel
Fans: Yael Meyer, Carolyn Evan

Brussels

Acquired from: OC Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: February 18, 2021
Date of Passing: November 29, 2023
Family: Gary Lindahl & Julie Allen
Fans: Sarah

Tribute: On November 29th, Julie and Gary fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Brussels.

He was loved dearly and they will never forget him. ❤

geno

Acquired from: Long Beach Animal Care Services
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: February 19, 2021
Date of Passing: February 7, 2022
Family: Tiffany Allen
Fans: Brandon & Valarie Goodwin, Renna, In memory of Winston

Tribute: On February 7th, Tiffany fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Geno.

She shared, " It is through a broken heart and puffy eyes, that I write this post.

Yesterday we had to let our baby boy, Geno McNugget Allen, go after eight months and one week together.

I brought (Geno) McNugget home after Kelly put out the call for hospice families. I don’t know why, exactly, I chose McNugget, but I’m oh so glad I did.

My baby boy was the goodest boy around. His gentle, sweet, unassuming nature was incredible to be around. But! He was also my Carl Fredricksen (from Pixar’s Up!). His grumbly, grumpy attitude every. single. time. I changed his belly band-or washed his face after each meal-pushing my hand away with his paws to let me know he was NOT happy with me- made me laugh each and every day.

Meal time was his favorite sport. And each night, after dinner and until bed time, we would cuddle. Oh how I’ll miss that time together.

It’s true that I had no idea how long we’d have together and I considered each day with him the ultimate gift. In the end, he declined rapidly and it was clear that his body was shutting down. If only love could’ve kept him alive…

My baby boy crossed the Bridge yesterday afternoon in the arms of his two mamas who adored him beyond all measure.

We will miss you forever, sweet boy. "

Alice

Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: February 22, 2021
Date of Passing: December 25, 2023
Family: Mary & Mark Donnelly
Fans: Shelli Perez, Donor in memory of Bubba, Curby, In Memory of Boomer, Leticia Beltran

Tribute: On December 25th, Mary and Mark fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Alice.

They shared,

"Our journey with Alice started when we brought her home September 2021. Little did I know then that my heart would forever be changed. She is so missed especially at night as I still expect her to jump onto my lap to snuggle.

When we first brought Alice home, we had to learn how to give her sub Q fluids and that scared the daylights out of me to do, but everyone at Frosted Faces patiently taught us all we needed to know and made sure we had all the supplies and support we needed. Then came the time when that was no longer needed, and Alice did very well on her KD diet. Actually so well that we kinda forgot that she had kidney disease.

Alice was such a sweetheart! Some of her favorite sleeping spots were in any splash of sunlight streaming thru the windows, or on my bed, pillow, and anywhere on my person! She loved looking out the window and the neighbors got such a kick out of seeing her watching out like the neighborhood watch police! She was my faithful support while I recovered from a total knee replacement, and would supervise our home improvement projects and gardening activities!

She was the queen of the castle and even tho we tried to open our home to another FF feline, Alice quickly let us know that she wasn't sharing. (Luckily he did find another perfect place of his own!)

We had to learn to keep grocery bags out of her reach, especially if there was bread inside. We couldn't figure out where the mysterious rustling sounds were coming from but later would find a suspicious pile of chewed off bits of plastic...She loved her food puzzles and would always beg for chicken from our plates!

We are so grateful for the time we had together and as always it never seems like enough. Late Christmas eve, early Christmas morning we had to say goodbye. She had been letting us know that the time was coming, but I kept hoping. But when she started being unable to take more than a few steps without collapsing, we knew it was time to bring her in, still hoping and thinking that she would get treatment and come home with us. However her body was shutting down, her heart and kidneys had fought the good fight and it was time to say goodbye. Even though I am sobbing my heart out now, I am so grateful that we were able to hold her, thank her, and give her some final snuggles as we helped her peacefully pass onward. I trust she is curled up contently with our previously loved and lost non FF senior cats, enjoying those sunlit and catnip fields while eating all the chicken and bread she wants!!

Thank you again Frosted Faces for all you do."

Sunny

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Escondido
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: February 22, 2021
Date of Passing: October 13, 2024
Family: Lorelei Taylor
Fans: Kathy & Scott Ligman, Jenny & Sachi Aleksich

Tribute: On October 13th, Lorelei fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Sunny.

She shared,

"-Only heard her bark like twice - seriously

-Super sniffer! I always called her “Sniffy Snifferton” and we didn’t go on walks, we went on sniffs. No rock, blade of grass or dirt clod was left unsniffed. She was very thorough and purposeful.

-LOVED to sit out on the corner of the deck and watch all of the birdies fly around. She had a little pillow under the deck chair and spent many hours there, no matter what the weather. She loved watching all of the action in the air.

-Was not a lap dog. Once in a great while she would sidle up to me and lay against my leg, but that was it.

-Didn’t really respond to belly rubs or ear rubs or the like. Sometimes, I’d pick her up, hold her upward, sitting on her little cute bum, and rub her belly to see if she liked it. She’d wiggle till I let her down and walk away with a harumph.

-Sunny loved to go "bye bye car car" and go to work with me. No matter what I was doing, and where, she was along, being a great helper. Most of the time she'd snooze away in her little buggy, but she was always ready to go along, no matter the adventure!

-She did, however, like being in the same room as I was. When she could still do stairs, she’d follow me around the house and plop down wherever she could see me. Sometimes she’d just sit in the hallway if I was puttering and going from room to room. She always kept an eye on me and went where I went.

-Sunny was just that. A sunny little sweet disposition who was quiet, kind, loving and seemed to always look after me. I am really not sure who rescued who. I had lost my dad and my other two Westies when I found Sunny on the Frosted Faces website after about a year of being on my own. I saw her little face in the photos and felt she was looking for me too after her Mom had died of COVID and she landed at Frosted Faces.

-Sunny was 14-1/2 years old when she rescued me in 2021. She was 18 when she went over the bridge. What a legacy of love she gave to me. I am so thankful and grateful to Frosted Faces for having her for me and for all of the years of care for her. Gosh, I sure miss her so very much.

-And much love and thanks to Diana and Chris Heise for being her “step-Mom & Dad” when I was travelling. And to Jenny & Sachi Aleksich and Kathy & Scott Ligman as Sunny’s very devoted Fans! Sunny had some serious medical needs the last few months, and wow, the support she received for everything to be provided is so very appreciated and we are so grateful.

Fly high little precious Sunny! I hope you find Grandpa, Peabo, Lucy, and your first Momma and hang out together till I get there."

Lil moNKEY

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-Escondido
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: February 23, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Tyler Abron
Fans: Julie Logie, Carolyn Evans

McGraw

Acquired from: San Bernardino City Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: February 23, 2021
Date of Passing: August 26th, 2021
Family: Frosted Faces Foundation
Fans: Maria Metts, Jane Nguyen, Renna, Lauranlisa Ponsor in Memory of Outlaw
Tribute: Yesterday we fulfilled our promise to Frosted Face McGraw.

I don't know when euthanasia will stop feeling like defeat; Defeat that we can no longer keep a dog walking, no longer keep him clean, no longer solve his frustration.

At the same time, I also know that McGraw had the best from FFF staff and volunteers. He was poorly socialized with dogs and his joints were stiff. We knew asking for a family was a tall order, so we moved him into the lobby to be part of the FFF family.

A mess was a mop away, while baths and diapers were routine. He enjoyed stroller rides and was helped with a harness, booties, and toe grips. We did constant med adjustments until we maxed out the benefits of steroids, gabapentin, and adequan. McGraw received weekly acupuncture and PT on-site, and he even got to try a swim class! McGraw was the first to greet anyone in the lobby by accepting pets and he was the king of cleaning up leftovers.

We loved McGraw like family, especially the Kennel Managers. Man they made his care look easy and no one pleaded surrender, except for the very last days on McGraw's behalf when we collectively made the same comments in varying tunes when his struggle was consistent, "Who was going to have the courage to let him go?"

Andy, Maira, Alicia, Lexi, and I choked on ugly tears, cursing euthanasia's finality, trying to physically hold McGraw's spirit here on earth with us as he passed.

___________

"I'd do anything, that you wanted me to

When all is said and done

I'd never count the cost

It's worth all that's lost

Just to see you smile."

~Tim McGraw

___________

Jonas

Acquired from: San Bernardino City Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: February 23, 2021
Date of Passing: May 6th, 2021
Family: Frosted Faces Foundation
Fans: Teresa Petro, Mama Cari, Jane Nguyen
Tribute: Yesterday we fulfilled our promise to Frosted Face Jonas.

Jonas was brought to the shelter as a stray who may have been hit by a car with a severe limp. Diagnostics showed that he had terrible elbow arthritis, but more significantly, he was in renal failure and he didn't quite seem mentally appropriate.

You know, he loved to eat, be pet, strolled around, and he had no idea how lost he was, so we just let him keep on a-livin'! We gave him a phosphate binder and subcutaneous fluids every other day along with pain medication. He was the fluffy handsome male amidst the grandma elderbulls in the lobby: the grandmas and Jonas! When his back legs began to not place quite properly, we fitted him in a Help 'em Up Harness and he welcomed the help.

As you may know, we put green bandanas on the dogs to use caution around. Jonas did not see well and loved food so so so much, that he decided all hands heading toward his face were a platter of sausages. Although he didn't have a mean bone in his body, he donned a green bandana so people would know not to put hands in his face!

We knew Jonas was changing as he walked less and lost interest in food. New labs on Wednesday confirmed that it was time. We held him tightly for one more night, and on Thursday we all held him as his adorable freckled socks walked over the rainbow bridge.

Thank you to all of the volunteers who pushed Jonas' wagon on the weekend FFF hikes, took him on special outings, and fed him all the things his heart desired. If your hamburgers and bully sticks could have kept him on this Earth, he would have lived forever.

King

Acquired from: San Bernardino City Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: February 23, 2021
Date of Passing: May 17, 2024
Family: Gretchen Slater-Beard & the Volunteers of Frosted Faces Foundation
Fans: Maria Metts, Donor on behalf of BFF Lila

Tribute: On May 17th, we fulfilled our promise to Frosted Face King.

King was surrendered to the shelter by his family when he was having trouble walking. He also had a defensive bark which made him "Rescue Only" for behavioral concerns. We had to have him, so Teresa Petro headed to SBC Shelter to exit King, and two other FFF legends, McGraw and Jonas, that day.

We suited King up in a Help 'Em Up Harness and he did well for awhile, but ultimately needed a wheelchair for long walks. He didn't even know he was paralyzed, he cruised. Remember those wheelchair races down the FFF driveway against Frosted Face Thompson?

Dogs like King are tough to place. Incontinent, paralyzed, dog selective, defensive about his space... but Gretchen Slater-Beard, incredible pittie mom, kept asking about him. She took him home for a Frosted Fling and he never left. She took him on walks in his chair, suited him with booties, and let him scoot all over her carpeted house with her sister and grandbabies. She loved him so well for a year until we received a shocking, devastating phone call- she had passed away after a becoming septic from an undiagnosed UTI. To this day, we still can't believe she is gone.

King had to come back to FFF for attentive care, and we were happy to carry out Gretchen's promise to do right by him. King lived in the FFF lobby where volunteers changed his diapers, watered him, snuck him treats to stop him from barking at all the "intruders," and he received physical therapy from Danielle and Dr. Lipman. He was on a slew of medication to manage pain, a lung mass, and recurring UTIs of his own. Kim Hyland was his buddy. She volunteers most nights of the week and bee lined straight for King before even setting her keys down. Sweet, young Gavin would lay with King in the lobby on his dog bed for the whole 2 hour shift while his mom helped with Open House. The Kennel Managers exercised their muscles and patience taking care of him as a team every single day for over a year, "What do you need, King?" was a daily ask.

Over the course of the year, we took him under our wing at the Smíšeks. He loved sleeping on the couch and being spooned. We took him to the beach, walking and talking on the boardwalk as we strolled him at sunset or parking for brunch. If you have ever had a paralyzed dog, you know it's a labor of love expressing their bladders, proper positioning of pee pads, keeping their feet clean and medicated, flipping sides, bringing water to them, and primarily, enriching their lives.

It's what makes the end so hard because they are so much part of every single day. On King's last day he had a few seizures and lost function of his front legs. We had already been treating a terrible UTI that month and discussing his escalating frustration, so when he started to decline in more obvious ways that day- it was time.

I know all of us at FFF could keep King "going" forever lifting and accommodating him, even with no working legs. I think that's what makes the decision to euthanize so hard sometimes. It feels like a betrayal, like you are deciding to not keep working for your companion who has given you so much love and devotion. But, you have step back and measure quality. You realize that if that were you, you would not to live like that and that euthanasia is a gift, not a disloyalty.

On King's last morning, we carried him out to the patio where he laid in Andy's lap hoping the fresh air would cut the thick sobs of finality imprisoned in our chests. If tears escaped, it would be real. We knew as the sun rose, that it would be our last morning together. FFF staff arrived and helped us to place a catheter and tearfully surrounded him to say good bye. The whole FFF family cried sharing irrational grief and exhaustion together. In the end, relief that we had given King every last good day and then a couple more.

It was not lost on us that we were sending him home to be with Gretchen. ❤

Boston

Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: February 23, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Stephen & Kate Wagner
Fans: Larry & Mindy Ariola

Gayle

Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: February 23, 2021
Date of Passing: May 8th, 2021
Family: Frosted Faces Foundation
Fans: Taren Hoffos, Sweep Glory & Pest Plett, Paler then Mauve, Jane Nguyen
Tribute: On Saturday, May 8th, we fulfilled our promise to Frosted Face Gayle.

Gayle was surrendered to the shelter with unmanaged diabetes. Last week we hospitalized her because her blood glucose was spiking at unusual times and she was sent home a few days later feeling great with perfect numbers. She was eating her special food, carrots for snacks, receiving her insulin and eye drops like a grateful champ, and chirping for attention as always. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday she suffered several seizures that medication and hospitalization was not controlling. By Saturday, the vet let us know that it was time. Gayle was not Gayle anymore, and she would not come back to us the same, if ever.

Gayle loved attention and a great fluffy bed! She had a fantastic nose and acted as a vacuum for all bits of food left on the floor. She knew how to "shake" and didn't have a mean bone in her body.

Gayle was a significant presence in our lobby and it has been quiet here as we deal with so much grief from the passing week.

We love you, Gayle.

Sarge

Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: February 23, 2021
Date of Passing: January 10, 2024
Family: Ali Coning & Michael Gallagher
Fans: Dixie Clapper, Jane Nguyen

Tribute: On January 10th, Michael and Ali fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Sarge.

They shared,

"The first day we met Sarge, he was seemingly indifferent to us. Despite that, we knew that we had just met a really special dog and felt like we needed to forever-foster him. From the moment we brought him home, he settled right in despite the neighborhood cats and raccoons that lived in the redwood tree in our yard. His aloofness gave way to a cozy, playful gentleman that would move from bed to the floor to the patch of dirt under the deck (which was a clear favorite).

Sarge spent a lot of time in our van. It started as small trips to dog beach, then San Onofre, then Santa Cruz and San Francisco. Before we knew it, Sarge was driving across the country, hiking in state and national parks, distant dog parks, and going to Canada all for the sake of a sniff. He visited 24 states, the District of Columbia, and Ontario, Canada. Even when we were hanging around at home on a weekend, he would whine and ask to go in the van and spend hours in there even if there was no destination. He was a great travel buddy - always up for an adventure in a new place by our sides.

Sarge always found a way to make us laugh. Whether it was how bad he was at using his bed, walking into tables, or making his way into our garden box after he lost his ability to walk (we still do not know how he did that), he always put a smile on our faces.

After he lost the ability to use his back legs, we were pretty concerned that he would not adapt to the wheelchair - but he surprised us again. He jumped right in and never looked back… well sort of. He had no spatial awareness and would run our toes over, clip trees, and bump into garbage cans. Even with his new mobility, he was still trotting after cats and skunks and playing with our neighbors' younger dogs in the alley way. We spent an inordinate amount of time standing on the corner of Sunset Cliffs Blvd and Cape May Ave - I think he liked the attention of people driving by looking at how cool he was in his wheels. All jokes aside, it is hard to not be inspired by his perseverance and adaptability.

Ali and I feel unbelievably lucky to have been able to foster Sarge for the last 2 years and 8 months. He was our first dog together and will always hold a special place in our hearts."

Roma

Acquired from: OC Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: February 23, 2021
Date of Passing: March 27th, 2021
Family: Jaime Fox
Fans: Kelly & Marcia Smith, Feisty Frasier Gifts
Tribute: On March 27th, Jaime fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Roma.

Roma came to us just last month with a giant ulcerated mass on her abdomen. We removed it and the biopsy came back as an extraskeletal osteosarcoma with a scary prognosis.

Jaime agreed to adopt Roma anyways and was going to give her the best of the rest. Roma started coughing in her new home and we thought very little of it because we had some kennel cough going around FFF. When antibiotics didn't kick it, we took new chest films to discover mets had appeared all over her chest just weeks after surgery.

Her mom writes,

"I had 20 wonderful days with Roma. She was the sweetest girl and took to me immediately and I to her. Last night she began struggling to breathe so we made the decision to let her go so she wouldn’t have to suffer.

My parents came to visit this weekend. She loved my parents after a few barks to let them know she was protecting this apartment. Last night she forced my mom and i to pet her for 2 hours straight by continuously nudging our hands if we stopped. And how could we say no?! (We didn’t) Most nights around 10pm Roma and Sasha, my cat would chase each other around the apartment and have a great play time. She slept next to me every night and was my shadow at all times. Her last meal was vanilla ice cream and cheese which she joyfully gobbled up.

I’m so grateful I got to love and cherish her. I miss her so much already. I had her for 20 days but loved her as if I had her for much longer. Thank you for allowing me to love her."

Tide

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: February 23, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family:
Fans: Kerry Johnson, Sean, Sarah & Noah Carey

Jack

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: February 23, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Madeline Sirmbardis
Fans: Kim & Bob Rios

Bailey

Acquired from: Animal Friends of the Valleys
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: February 24, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Krista Van Tassel & Mark Woolever
Fans: Ellen Teng

Willie

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society-El Cajon
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: February 25, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Christine & Mike Magers
Fans: Michelle Gable

Dempsey

Acquired from: Final Wish Program
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: March 2, 2021
Date of Passing: December 17, 2021
Family: Tina Mitchell & Zell Lundberg
Fans: Amy T.

Tribute: On December 17th, Tina and Zell fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Dempsey.

"A sad note from us about Dempsey. We staved off the recurring pleural effusion for about 5 weeks after I last wrote, using slowly increasing doses of prednisolone. But by last Wed., his breathing was becoming very labored and the coughing began again. We started him a high dose of prednisolone; but by Friday the boy was clearly in distress. We could have put him through more suffering while we waited to see if the higher dose (or a switch to dexamethasone) would eventually help, although anything would only be temporary.

But we decided his quality of life was decreasing rapidly: He wasn’t interested in going for a walk (which he loved) or chasing the resident ground squirrel (his other great joy ). We just couldn’t keep him in such distress. Luckily, our vet clinic was able to arrange for us to come in quickly and we put him down. His last moments were peaceful, surrounded by us and the vet who had been working with us.

Even though he only lived with us for 7 months, this floppy-eared, long-legged scruffy terrier wriggled his way into our hearts. We will miss him a lot. But it feels good that we could give him a really great final chapter for his time here on the planet.

P.S. Kelly, his “sister,” is still doing well. She gets to be the center of attention now and she’s lapping it up—when she isn’t napping. "

Kelly

Acquired from: Final Wish Program
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: March 2, 2021
Date of Passing: September 26, 2023
Family: Tina Mitchell & Zell Lundberg
Fans: Donor in memory of Prince & Peanut

Tribute: On September 26th, Tina and Zell fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Kelly.

They shared,

"We adopted Kelly, the 14-year-old Kerry Blue terrier, at the end of May, 2021, along with her brother/bonded buddy Dempsey, the Irish terrier. They were really good pals that had come to Frosted Faces via the Final Wish program—their owner had died. For about 7 months, Dempsey’s health issues kept our focus primarily on him. Kelly was very self-contained and easy to live with. Once Dempsey died, we could turn our full attention to Kelly—and we discovered a quiet and delightful dog.

We focused on giving Kelly a lively, fun life doing things she really liked to do. Which mostly was sleeping and walking. Kelly was a really good walker, and we walked all over our neighborhood. She also introduced us to a lot of parks here in North County, which we visited on weekends. At those parks, we taught her the joys of standing in cool, clear lake or creek water up to her ankles on a hot day and slurping up some refreshing water. And running out and back to us (well, as far as the 16-foot leash would let her go) like a puppy at one of the less populated parks. And she taught us the serenity of her slow, tai-chi-esque walking pace and the satisfaction of just keeping going.

This September, we brought now-16-year-old Kelly back to Frosted Faces to board for 10 days while we were out of town. She did well, much to our relief, mingling with the other dogs without causing a problem (not always a given, since she wasn’t a big fan of most other dogs we met on our walks). Alicia sent us some really lovely photos of her that we will forever be grateful for. We will also be grateful for having one last, relaxing evening with Kelly after we picked her up from FF. For reasons we’ll never know, she crashed early the next morning. But again, we’re grateful that that health crisis happened on a day when we could get an appt. with our vet that morning. We’ve lost 5 other old dogs in the past 4 years. One of my least favorite things is sitting at an emergency vet clinic on a weekend, not knowing the staff or the vet, and having to make end-of-life decisions among strangers. Instead, thanks to Kelly’s timing, our vet knew exactly what we needed to hear and he knew Kelly well enough to know that the prognosis wasn’t a good one. But we were able to be with her and provide her that last great gift of ease and comfort as she moved on to meet back up with Dempsey and her first owner. Our mission with her was complete."

beckett

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society--Oceanside
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: March 8, 2021
Date of Passing: September 1, 2021
Family: Sabrina Phouthakesone
Fans: Ingrid L., Shannon Schell & Family
Tribute: On September 1st, Sabrina and Matt fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Beckett after liver cancer metastasized to his lungs.

" Beckett was my first dog, first boy, first pet love and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

As sad as I am, I want to take this time to say my thank yous. Thank you to Beckett’s last family for being so stupid to give up the handsomest, so sweet, most loyal beagle boy. Thank you to Frosted Faces for seeing Beck and taking him out of the shelter. Thank you to Christina for being the best foster mom and prepping me into this dog parent life. Thank you to my partner for letting me pick whichever pup I wanted to bring home and thank you to Beckett for speaking out to me and changing my life.

The time is never enough but thank you from the bottom of my heart Beck for adding so much to our lives for the past 5 months. You greeting us with a huge smile, wagging tail and boisterous beagle bark is something I will never forget. Thank you for everything my Beckett boy, you have no idea how much you meant to us."