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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.  

Lucky

Acquired from: Final Wish
Age upon Rescue:12
Date of Rescue: December 19, 2021
Date of Passing: February 5, 2022
Family: Rebeca Gonzalez
Fans: Michelle LaLonde

Tribute: On February 5th, Rebecca fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Lucky.

Lucky was entrusted to us through our Final Wish Program when his mom passed away. We had a hard time getting him to eat and he always seemed congested, but his diagnostics were not revealing. We offered him supportive care and let him roam the lobby to keep a close eye on him. He started to shine, eating nuggets and wagging his tail for us! We took him to a concert and dinner outing with volunteers after close one night, and he fell asleep on a dog bed near the table like a loyal good boy. He went on FFF hikes and got strolled like a prince.

When Rebecca asked who needed a two week Frosted Fling the most, "Lucky" was our first answer. She and none of us knew she would be his final family, but we are all so grateful that she was.

Rebecca shared,

"A week ago I brought Lucky home for a Fling. He was a shy guy who mostly slept, had been ill and I could tell he could use the comfort of being in a home. When we got here he seemed happy and liked to roll around on the grass. He also ate a lot of steak! He wouldn't eat anything else so I kept cooking him steaks. He slept in bed with me every night and he would always be my little spoon. On Wednesday night he even gave me a lick on the cheek and seemed very excited to know I was there

On Thursday he didn't seem as bright but was still walking and drinking. Then Friday came and I emailed FFF to tell them I would bring him back that weekend so he could get checked out. That Friday night, Lucky whined a couple of times, started breathing hard, and in about 30 seconds he was gone.

It's hard not to feel guilty and like I failed him and everyone. Lucky was such a gentle soul and he deserved so much more time of getting spoiled and eating steak everyday. I will never forget him and his super soft floppy ears, or his tail wags when I gave him head scratches. He was the best boy."

Teddy Roosevelt

Acquired from: Baldwin Park Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: December 22, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Christina Alkire
Fans: Donor In Memory of Willow

Jewel

Acquired from: Baldwin Park Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: December 22, 2021
Date of Passing: March 13, 2023
Family: Ali Manz
Fans: Nora Corcoran, Milda, Merilly Miller

Tribute: On March 13th, Ali fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Jewel.

"My sweet girl Jewel, I miss you so much baby.

Jewel was taken in as a stray by the Baldwin Park Humane Society. They named her JEWEL! They really nailed her name as she truly is a total gem. Frosted Faces rescued Jewel December 22, 2021. Jewel came home with me January 17, 2022, for a fling turned foster. She had soooo much adoption interest. We packed up every weekend for appointments in hopes of finding her very own perfect forever family. But she was also so so sick. No perfect caretaking match came along. She declined rapidly with a prognosis of only a few days. Little did anyone know how STRONG she was!!

Of course, I said she could join our family permanently for whatever time she had and promised to make it her best time! So that’s how Jewel “the gem” became a lil Manz. The biggest strongest lil Manz!

She had a horribly infected mouth/sinuses, fluid on her heart, quickly went into kidney failure, anemic, extremely under weight and a deformed foot. The combination did not leave her much quality time. That’s what we all thought… Jewel said nope not today folks! I got my furever family locked down and I am bouncing back, and back AND BACK again!

It was a roller coaster that’s for sure, but she never stopped fighting. She was stoic, strong and always aimed to please. She was extremely potty trained, but due to health issues often had accidents. She would get so upset and feel so bad. I would have to comfort her and let her know it’s ok. I’d give her treats and cuddle her till she settled down. Never in my life did I think I’d be consoling and praising a dog after accidents in the house lol. She tried so hard to be absolutely perfect. And she was! She never let her health or disability slow her down. She dealt with mom’s twice a day foot baths and bandage changes for 10 months until those darn foot ulcers healed. Six months later she finally got strong enough to undergo her much needed dental surgery. Which improved her quality of life tremendously! We tested out countless shoes and braces to help her walk, she told me what she wanted to eat, and kept her appetite till the end! Days left, turned into an unexpected absolutely amazing 420 days together, 420!!!

During our time together we had SO MUCH FUN! Jewel loved to go out. I loved to stroll with her around downtown. Her skinny little self surprisingly loved the cold dreary weather. We bundled up for Pet Day on the Bay, enjoying a harbor cruise, all the cold breezes and phenomenal ocean smells. We trekked up and around Balboa park numerous times. Her absolute favorite place was Seaport Village. We’d walk through downtown and people watch, hit markets, Petco park at the park, then settle in for a waterfront picnic at Seaport with her favorite treat, a Wetzel’s Pretzels bagel dog!

Summer arrived and her sinuses really hated the heat. I kept thinking man I hope she makes it to another winter, she loves winter. And she did! We got Halloween and Thanksgiving to play dress up and spoil her rotten. Then a big highlight for me was celebrating our December birthdays together. She joined me on my annual friends December babies birthday pub crawl.

All of it was so memorable. Jewel loved every second of our adventures and I loved seeing her so happy. I will miss our strolls and park picnics so so much.

A few things she hated, but showed her personality and I always found funny. Gates, she really hated being gated. She’d often push her standing gate to the side but stay in her “room” like the good girl she was! She hated when I did yoga, she’d get down by me with serious worried eyes. She also hated baths and even more when I showered. She’d always be outside the door when I came out, like ma are you ok, I know how miserable that room is, just wanted to check on you. When she became immobile she’d still try, kick her way and “Aroo” until I came out. She eventually decided going in the dreaded bathroom and laying on the bath mat was better then letting me take a scary scary shower alone!

I was supposed to be her care taker but she quickly became Jet and I’s care taker.

In the end her weight just kept dropping, no matter how much she ate. Her mobility tanked. I promised her I’d carry her around for as long as she was happy. That worked for awhile.

After almost a year of total silence she learned to use her Schnauzer “Aroo” and call for me. I’d help her potty, drink, eat, cuddle, whatever she wanted, she was content and happy and so was I. Until she wasn’t. Her adoring “Aroo, Aroo, mommy come help” turned to panic and frustration when I wasn’t close enough or couldn’t figure out what she wanted fast enough. So she became a lap dog, we cuddled and rocked in the recliner and talked about how loved, perfect and gorgeous she was. Alexa and I sang her many lullaby’s. Her grandma visited from Florida several times. Jewel really enjoyed the extra attention and even more the extra grandma spoiling! We got more good days doing her favorite things.

Jewel was such a fighter. It took me awhile to realize she was never going to stop fighting. It was my job as her mom to know when the fight was too much. It’s the hardest decision I’ve ever made. She was the most loyal and loving companion. I can’t express how much I will miss my perfect little girl.

In our last days I was able to tell her all about the lil Manz pack that would be welcoming her at the rainbow bridge… Foster would likely be in charge, FF Jero would follow her every movement with his big expressive eyes, and sweet FF Nikki would be her bestest friend. My two long legged beautiful girls together. She would be the care taker of the pack. She would be able to run free, all four legs, pain free and eat whatever she wanted. She stared into my eyes listening to everything and anything I wanted to tell her. I will cherish those long talks and snuggles forever.

Run pain free my perfect sweet angel face Jewel head. Thank you for being an amazing and huge part of my life, you are the most perfect little girl and brought me so much joy. I love you my girl.

Her brother, FF Gene/ Jetsan Gene #grumpjg: Jewel, you were an amazing sister, and an even better best friend. I never thought I’d have a friend. It took awhile, but you were patient, persistent and won me over. You were my protector on stroller rides, and always came to check on me when I didn’t feel good. You went with mom every week to make sure she picked out the best food and rotisserie chickens for us. Thank you for showing me I could trust another dog, becoming my best friend and being my sister. I truly miss your companionship. I love you sissy #jetel

Thank you Frosted Faces for saving Jewel and allowing her to join our family. Thank you for the phenomenal medical coverage and everyone on the amazing medical team. She would have never made it past a few days without your continued quality care. Thank you to her fans, Merrily, Nora, and Milda, for supporting her through everything, your monthly donations kept Jewel alive."

waylon

Acquired from: Baldwin Park Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: December 22, 2021
Date of Passing: June 10, 2022
Family: Lori Woodward & Joe Palomina
Fans: Sylvia, Erin C.

Tribute: On June 10th, Lori and Joe fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Waylon.

They shared,

"We lost our sweet Waylon boy yesterday.

I first fell in love with Waylon by following the 'Behind the scenes' Frosted Faces page. Waylon's FF name was Duke, and he was a cuddler. He made the cuddle moves on several Frosted Faces during his stay, but his favorite was Liberty and they were often found sharing the same bed.

I was so excited to bring him home! He integrated easily into my pack, he was just so chill and loved the company of people and dogs. He especially loved FF Jules, and made the cuddle moves on her pretty much immediately. I foster dogs for local rescue groups, and Waylon made fast friends with everyone, especially the ones that didn't mind sharing a bed.

Waylon loved food and would remind me that he was to be fed promptly at 6am and 4pm. He would bark at me to keep reminding me until I finally listened. He lived for our daily coffee shop trips where he got to share an egg and cheese sandwich with his pack members.

We were so honored to be his final family and we miss him lots.

I can't say enough about the support from Frosted Faces during this journey with Waylon. We are so grateful for the work they do and the commitment they show to all the dogs in their care. Thank you Frosted Faces for picking us to be Waylon's people."

james

Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 4
Date of Rescue: December 23, 2021
Date of Passing:
Family: Susan & Mike Keenan
Fans: Shani Rosenzweig

Signe

Acquired from: Moreno Valley Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: December 23, 2021
Date of Passing: April 14, 2023
Family: Catherine & Sam Theodore
Fans: Nancy Dagdag, Donor In Memory of Jodi, Lauranlisa Ponsor in Memory of Celia Mae

Tribute: On April 14th, Sam and Catherine fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Signe.

They shared,

"Signe came to Frosted Faces from the Moreno Valley Shelter just before Christmas 2021. She lived at Frosted Faces as a Lobbyist and made great human friends like Laura Ponsor, who took Signe on many great adventures. Laura shared that Signe was a girl that turned heads and attracted people where ever she went!

Sam and I took Signe into our home in November 2022 as a foster. What we expected and what we got were two different things. First, Signe was a very active dog, which was astonishing because she didn't have use of her back legs. We would lay her down on a bed in the morning, and off she went! She would pull herself around the house and even explore the garden when it was nice outside. Second, Signe was sassy and had an attitude that nothing could keep her down. She always wanted to lead the pack on her walk, and she could move fast with her wheels!

Signe loved being outside, and she and Sam would spend lots of time gardening together. She and Sam had an exceptional bond!

As time passed, Signe required more assistance, and she slowed down. Finally, toward the end, Signe let us know it was time. We miss her deeply!"

Rocky Jay

Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue:17
Date of Rescue: December 23, 2021
Date of Passing: September 13, 2022
Family: Tobie & J. Mike Pate
Fans: Sara Mannes

Tribute: On September 13th, Tobie and Mike fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Rocky Jay after battling liver cancer.

They shared,

"Our little Rocky Jay.. (‘Rocky Road’, ‘Rocky Boy’, and my favorite - ‘Fuzzball’) I thank you. I love you, I miss you..

Such a sweet, sweet little guy.

Our granddaughters helped choose him to be the perfect addition to our family.

He brought love and laughter, was so gentle and gave unconditional acceptance to everyone.

He went over the rainbow bridge this week, and I’m eternally grateful for his presence in our family."

Toto

Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: December 23, 2021
Date of Passing: December 23, 2021
Family: Frosted Faces Foundation
Fans: RZ
Tribute: Toto spent Christmas last year in the shelter when he was impounded at Bonita Shelter as a stray. After being reclaimed, this year he again spent the holiday week at the shelter, but this time he died.

I didn't know Toto well, all but three hours, but I know dogs. Domesticated dogs like consistency and the security of knowing where their next meal is coming from. They recognize their guardians and their residences, and tend to want to be near, even with a little adventure mixed in. When they don't feel well, and especially because they can't communicate their feelings, they count on us to provide them the resources to make them comfortable and healthy.

Toto was impounded as a stray this year on December 12th.

He was deemed med level U/U for the following reasons:

1. Mod-heavy dental calculus - may need few extractions

2. Grade 5/6 murmur

3. Non-productive cough

4. Suspect arthritic

In the vet's assessment they noted "H/L-Grade 5/6 murmur, mild increase in BV sounds over L thorax, no crackles/wheezing, occ. labored respiration w/increased thoracic effort."

He received no diagnostics or treatment during his time at the shelter likely due to being understaffed and lacking funding.

The shelter reached out to us as an exit option on December 19th and we were full with too many other homeless dogs in our care. We could not help him. By December 23rd we had room, so volunteer Letha Morrison brought Toto along with two other dogs up to FFF.

Within three hours of arrival between intake exams with Dr. Russell on-site, Toto started agonal breathing. We snatched him out of the vet kennel and all of us held him in shock as he passed away. Liquid poured out of his nose, and Dr. Russell let us know that was common for dogs with congestive heart failure during death. It was absolutely awful. We all stayed late to talk about how this could have been prevented and how Toto's life mattered- really, just how devastating Toto's whole story was. Days or mere hours earlier anyone, even us, could have started treatment and he may have lived with supportive care. Toto was so sweet, and was silently begging for someone, anyone to help him.

I am sad, and feel defeated that Toto literally and figuratively slipped through the cracks by three different parties who were supposed to take care of him. U/U senior animals are our specialty to unburden the shelter system, and all I can say is that we will continue to improve and do our best every day with every trial. I know I am preaching to the choir here, but please remember your pets count on you. Keep a watchful eye on them in the yard, make sure they have tags on, and listen to them when they look sick. Do the diagnostics they deserve, because they can't tell you what's wrong and you don't want to live with the "what ifs."

We are so sorry, Toto. You mattered.

woody

Acquired from: Animal Friends of the Valleys
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: December 24, 2021
Date of Passing: October 14, 2022
Family: Jeff & Kim Dollins
Fans: Julie McCall, Maureen & Danielle

Tribute: On October 14th, Jeff and Kim fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Woody.

Kim shared,

"Tonight I came home and didn’t hear your heavy footsteps excitedly coming to the door; tonight I didn’t hear your bark telling me to hurry up with the food; tonight I didn’t feel you bumping my leg over and over to pet you, feed you, give you heads scratches; tomorrow I won’t have coffee with you on the deck, tomorrow happy hour and fire side chats will not have you laying peacefully on your blanket. The footsteps in the house are now much quieter, paws still click along the floor but a set is missing, the one you knew exactly whose they were.

But for 6 months I did have those things and that’s what really matters. Woody was such a simple dog, what made him happy was easy; snacks, car rides, and lounging on his bed with his people around. Sometimes people would feel bad for him, with his one eye and limp, but he was stoic and didn’t want anyone's sympathy. He loved life and we loved every moment with him. He started out as a foster but who were we kidding, he fit in perfectly with the motley crew of our house.

I can focus on the melanoma that returned and the sadness of losing another FF this year but as with any dog that comes through our home we try our best to live in the now and enjoy the beautiful moments each animals brings. We love you Woody❤️."

Withers

Acquired from: OC Animal Care
Age upon Rescue: 16
Date of Rescue: January 4, 2022
Date of Passing: January 31, 2024
Family: Denise Mendonca & Rob Bailey
Fans: Justin & Jackie Craddock, Robin Harmon

Tribute: On January 31st, Rob and Denise fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Withers.

They shared,

"Sadly, we had to say goodbye to Withers last week. He joined our family (including our three other FFs) in December of 2022 on a fling, and never left. He fit in perfectly and there was no way we were bringing him back. I know he had a bit of a rep as a naughty boy, but he was very polite with us. I think it meant he had found his pack and was comfortable. He learned all the tricks from the other dogs too - when to follow me from room to room, how to greet me at the baby gate when I came in from my walk in the mornings, where to sit for the best snacks (he always sat towards the back and waited his turn, so we saved the biggest pieces for him). He had a goofy personality but was never pushy. He loved to come up next to me while I worked out and lean his head against my legs. I can’t believe how much I miss that. I still check on him first thing in the morning, but now it’s just an empty bed. He loved food and his job was to clean up after the other dogs made meal messes. Now his bestie, FF Cinder, is filling in for him.

Withers always had a weak back end, and we watched it get progressively weaker over time. It didn’t phase him but we watched him more closely to help him when he got stuck places. About two weeks ago he basically lost use of his back legs. We tried him out with some wheels and it looked like it could work. But he just kept getting weaker and sicker, and on the last day of January the vet let us know there were too many things going on with his little body and no way to fix them. We told Withers about all our other dogs, including several FFs like him, who’d be there to greet him at the bridge, and we let him go. It’s never easy but this one feels a little harder - maybe because I regret not adopting him earlier. I know he felt like he was a part of our family, and he always will be, and that’s what is really important.

I know they say that dogs don’t really smile, but “they” didn’t know Withers. That boy smiled all the time and I do believe he was happy with us. We miss you, With. ❤️ Always keep smiling!"

Sadie

Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: January 4, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: David Andeason
Fans: Melanie Brake

Cassie

Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: January 4, 2022
Date of Passing: February 12, 2023
Family: Leslie & Randy Hastings
Fans: Elaine Carlton

Tribute: On February 12th, Randy and Leslie fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Cassie.

They shared,

"Our hearts are heavy today as Cassie (Jyn)'s struggle with ITP came to an end early this morning. Dr. Russell worked diligently since mid-December to treat her, and FFF was generous in providing vet care and medications.

Cassie's first adoption anniversary was Jan 19th, not nearly enough time. We hoped to enjoy her sweet companionship for many years.

We miss everything about her, thick soft fur, bright brown eyes, big fluffy tail, joyfully spinning when we reached for her leash, snuggles with us and her packmate Daisy (Nova.)

Daisy was looking for Cassie this morning, and when we held her up to see Cassie, she looked for a long time, trying to understand.

Thanks to FFF for support, Cassie's sponsor, Alicia for pointing her out to us in the littles yard, and Dr. Russell for exhausting all treatment options.

Always in our hearts 💕"

Kylo

Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: January 4, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Gary & Kelly Ravens
Fans: Victoria Conway

Fett

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: January 4, 2022
Date of Passing: December 21, 2023
Family: Dave Buchholtz & Heather Fender
Fans: Scott Dortch

Tribute: On December 21st, David and Heather fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Fett.

They shared,

"We let Fett cross the Rainbow Bridge on Thursday, December 21st as his symptoms from CCD were progressively getting worse. We were fortunate enough to find Fett at Frosted Faces on March 27th, 2022 and we loved seeing his personality come out as he got comfortable at our home. He put on some much-needed weight and grew a beautiful coat of fur after a few months and he was always interested in what was going on in the kitchen, even though he wasn’t a huge eater. Even with his vision issues, he was able to map out our home very quickly and knew where to go for the most part.

Fett loved going to the beach and just walking along the sand and enjoying all the good smells. He loved to go into the tide pools and would even venture towards the waves to let the water hit the lower part of his legs. We found out very quickly that he also loved the grass at our home as well. He would get very excited when I would get the leash for his walks and he would hit the ground running when I would put him down in the grass. There was no better look than the smile on his face when he was running in the yard as he looked so happy and free. He loved the strip of fake grass that we had on our porch as well. He would often fall asleep outside on his fake grass in the evenings or when it was cloudy out.

Fett was also a big fan of naps during the day and had his “big bed” downstairs and his “small bed” upstairs. He had some pretty good dreams when he would sleep as he would bark and run in his dreams and it was always funny and entertaining to watch. He also became a voracious eater as he loved his ground chicken and would devour that by standing ON his bowl while he ate. He was also quite picky as he liked snacks like bread, but he preferred the bread be brioche bread as that was his favorite!

Fett was able to go on a few road trips with us to Arizona and to Santa Barbara, where he loved observing the pond and the turtles at Alice Keck Memorial Park. He always rode well in the car and we would take him on walks in his stroller if it was too far for him to walk.

In the last few months, his CCD became progressively worse and he was struggling to sleep at night and was struggling with getting comfortable during the day. He let us know that it was time and we had a nice celebration with him and took him to his favorite spots (the beach, his favorite park here in Carlsbad and his yard at home).

Overall, it was fun to watch Fett thrive in a home environment and we like to think that he knew he was loved and had a safe place in the almost two years that we were lucky enough to be his parents. We would like to thank Frosted Faces for everything they did for Fett and all of the senior dogs. We especially want to thank Kelly & Andy, Dr. Russell and Dr. Dideriksen and the whole vet staff and all of the volunteers at Frosted Faces. Fett was able to thrive and knew he was loved because of you!"

jerry

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: January 4, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Jody Hall
Fans: Gaybie Drinko

newton

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: January 4, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Brenda & Bill Barr
Fans: Chrissie Sheggrud, Marissa Tanasi, Emma Loerky

Grogu

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: January 4, 2022
Date of Passing: December 13, 2023
Family: Kerry Williams
Fans: Kenda Rakusin, Sherri

Tribute: On December 13th, Kerry fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Grogu.

She shared,

"Yesterday morning, Grogu took his final space flight to Frosted Faces Foundation. He enjoyed chicken nuggets and french fries before ascending to the stars. In mid-November, chest x-rays found multiple sizable masses that would soon crowd his lungs and heart. He likely had a primary tumor in his abdomen and it had metastasized beyond being treatable. He was given months to live. It progressed quickly and he ended up only having weeks left. January 4th would have been his second Frostiversary.

I don’t know his story. He was brought in by a “Good Samaritan” so I guess that means he was a stray. He was extremely thin, with rotting teeth and an oral-nasal fistula. He was on a long list of medications when I brought him home on February 27, 2022. Frosted Faces paid for his dental surgery about a week later. He took no time at all settling in at home and loving me, and his health improved.

Grogi the Pierogi loved lying in sunlight, sleeping under blankets, and gentle pets on the forehead. When in a harness and on a leash, he walked so confidently, head high, like he owned the neighborhood. He frequently patrolled the kitchen for crumbs. I will miss his little 6lbs body and perfect boney paws. I will miss the smell of his ears. I will miss the way he lit up and his ears tucked back excitedly when my roommate Britney came home. He liked to curl up next to her on the couch.

He is survived by the Frosted Face I adopted the same day as him, Barky. I am fortunate that Barky is very snuggly; it’s good to have a dog remaining for comfort."

Anderson

Acquired from: Upland Animal Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: January 6, 2022
Date of Passing: December 26, 2023
Family: Athena Dickinson
Fans: Beck Family

Tribute: On December 26th, Athena fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Anderson.

She shared,

"I miss Andy and think about him everyday. I think about how it would feel to have him laying next to me at night, but I'm happier than he's so longer In pain. Andy was an odd dog but that's what made him so adorable. He didn't do typical dog like things, like bark, lick himself, acknowledge other animals. When he "ran" he hopped like a goat. He always grained and rumbled, I think that was how he communicated. He was a funny little guy, independent in his own way. He didn't want to go on walks but if he was just walking around the house or backyard he'd roam and hop around. I think he was kind of a free spirit. He'd hop around the house and chase me when he wanted to be fed. Seeing old videos of how he looked, and how much energy he had made me realize how much he did slow down and decline in the winter. I really loved being with him and having him as my companion, I'm lucky that I saw him online and decided that I was gonna have him. When I saw Andy in person I was surprised by how small he was, he seemed so gentle and frail but after settling in he gained more weight and showed me his personality more. Even though it was a short time I'm happy I got to spend it with him. I'm glad to know that he lived a fun life and was comfortable in my home. Andy was such an adorable baby, and he was loved by many."

primRose

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: January 6, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Mary Arkwright
Fans: Laura Ross, Colette Sands

Lucy

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: January 6, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Brian & Theresa Wilford
Fans: Holly Barnes

Angel Belle

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 15
Date of Rescue: January 6, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Dixie McEachern
Fans: Susan Chittum

Beverly

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: January 6, 2022
Date of Passing: January 4, 2024
Family: Heidi Breuer
Fans: Catherine Scannell

Tribute: On January 4th, Heidi fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Beverly.

She shared,

"I met Beverly in January 2022. When I took her home for the first time, she crawled into my lap as I was driving. She cried all the way to her new home. I think this is the moment I fell in love with her.

Beverly was so skinny you could see her pelvis bones, and she coughed all the time (or "reverse sneeze," as Frosted Faces called it). She clearly had issues with sight, as she often bumped into things. Despite her challenges, Beverly was plucky and sassy, and it didn't take her long to become the boss of me.

I fattened Beverly up, strengthened her gimpy back legs, and nursed her through dental surgery where she had 17 teeth removed. She traveled with me to Florida to visit my family twice, went hiking around San Diego, and hung out at the beach. Beverly loved to snuggle up under a blanket, she enjoyed laying in the sun, and she adored eating!! Our first year together was so much fun!

Unfortunately, Beverly struggled for much of her second year with me, facing repeated bouts of vomiting and diarrhea. After treating her for severe pancreatitis, Beverly improved, only to fall prey to a devastatingly quick and debilitating canine dementia. My sassy little peanut had lost her love for life and her ability to do much of anything besides circle anxiously and compulsively. We tried everything we could think of, but the dementia just got worse and worse and worse. I was terribly sad to have to euthanize Beverly to release her from her pain and anxiety. I will always love her and remember her. I hope she is hanging out with the ghost pack over the rainbow bridge now."

Bootsie

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: January 6, 2022
Date of Passing: July 19, 2023
Family: Marie Rolla & Carlos Lopez
Fans: Rowan Mae Minaya, Bria T.

Tribute: On July 19th, Marie & Carlos fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Bootsie.

She shared,

"I feel very lucky to have celebrated a year and a half with miss busty. She was such a wonderful companion and stayed by my side 24/7 when I wasn’t at work. I’m really going to miss taking her to the dog beach, spooning with her in bed (she somehow at 7lbs managed to hog my king size bed), and the little zoomies she would get when I came in the front door after work.

She was a fiercely loyal dog and I felt lucky she chose me. Toward the end when she started getting sick I figured out I could put her in a soft donut cone and bring her to work with me so she wasn’t able to bite anyone. Everyone loved her. If you were lucky you could trade her treats for a little butt pet and she would allow it, which was a gift. She was so soft and so cute and she is going to be deeply missed. Thank you so much Frosted Faces for giving me the opportunity to be a part of Bootsie's golden years, may she rest in peace ♥️"

Pierre

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: January 6, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Laura & William Denhart
Fans: Ian & Diane McCallum

Dexter Doo

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: January 6, 2022
Date of Passing: May 5, 2023
Family: Chyrle Gould
Fans: RZ

Tribute: On May 5th, Chyrle and Jack fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Dexter after battling heart failure.

They shared,

"As I write this the screen is blurry with my tears. Dexter Doo passed away Friday evening, May 5, 2023. He was in the car taking a ride with us when he suddenly began panting excessively while lying in his car bed. We went immediately to the Advanced Care Veterinary Hospital in San Diego - we were only about 10 minutes away.

They took him immediately for oxygen therapy. They told us his heartbeat was just under 100 bpm and his breathing was about 90 per minute when we arrived there. After a little more than an hour or so of oxygen, and medical care his breathing and heartbeat were better but still not even near normal.

We were then advised to transfer him, ourselves, to the Animal Emergency Clinic - about 1mile away. We arrived there within 5 minutes. He was immediately put on oxygen at that facility.

After some time we were advised that he was still unable to survive without extensive treatment and oxygen.

After a family conference we decided to let Dexter sleep forever. It was more a matter of not putting him through the treatment experience. Cost was not an issue. We would do anything to have kept him with us.

Jack and I don't really know how we will go on without Dexter Doo. Dexter was shy with us at first but we quickly bonded. Due to his medical condition, and treatment schedule our days and nights were actually planned around him and his care. He had a good quality of life. He loved his routines - eating, medication, daily walk, rides in the car. For all of 2022 he and I did a mile to a mile and a half walk every day. He loved smelling flowers. Beginning this year 2023 we decreased the walks until finally he would be ready to go home after a block or two.

We feel lucky to have had him with us. He was a joy. And I don't know what we will do without him. It's been almost a week and we are still bereft and physically suffering."

cooper

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: January 6, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Debra & Larry Staples
Fans: Sam & Jade Babbitt

toffee

Acquired from: Long Beach Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: January 6, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Phillip Ma & Karen Nguyen
Fans: Devon Matier

NASHA

Acquired from: West Valley LA Shelter
Age upon Rescue:11
Date of Rescue: January 9, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Lindsay Samson
Fans: Shari, Shianne In Honor of Oski Pie

SUNI

Acquired from: West Valley LA Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: January 9, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family:
Fans: Shianne In Honor of Oski Pie, Shirley Tweedell, David Smith, Donor in memory of Sherman, Donor in honor of my Fur Babies, Bethany Horton, Alex R., Norma De Leon

eva

Acquired from: Carlsbad
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: January 10, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Marcia Hoeck
Fans: The Lesley Ladies

ODIN

Acquired from: Riverside Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: January 12, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Heather Thurman & John Trzeciak
Fans: Nicole Kerns

roe

Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: January 12, 2022
Date of Passing: February 10, 2023
Family: Katie & Stephen Wagner
Fans: Pam Rainsdon, Rosie Bell, The Albrecht Family

Tribute: On February 10th, Katie and Stephen fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Roe.

They shared,

"I don't know how to write this post. I thought it would be months, maybe years, before I would have to.

On Friday, we said goodbye to beautiful Princess Roe. 💔

3 weeks ago, Roe got pancreatitis. In the course of her treatment, an ultrasound spotted masses on her liver, kidneys and lungs.

We didn't panic.

She'd had melanoma for over a year, with two external masses successfully removed. The cancer, we thought, was growing slowly.

Then, a week ago, she woke up and couldn't use her back legs.

We saw an oncologist.

There was an additional tumor on her spine. Chemo wasn't an option - it would take too long. But still, there was hope. She wasn't in pain and we had a window to try to help her adjust to being disabled. She could still be happy and loved for the weeks or months she had left.

We got a wheelchair.

We researched appointments for acupuncture and physical therapy.

We bought a special mattress and a cart to take her to work.

Roe is a fighter and we weren't going to let her down.

Then, just 5 days later, she lost the use of her front legs. She couldn't sit up or do anything but lay on her side. For the first time, I saw fear in her eyes.

I would have fought for her forever, but it wasn't fair to put her through it.

So much of Roe's personality was her physicality. Body checking her brothers to get the best dog bed... zoomies in the yard after dinner... 4 mile hikes... her little show dog prance... her ability to be the first one on my lap whenever I sat down... the way she was always happiest touching someone else. (Canine or human)

So many dogs would have been ok paralyzed. But not her. She couldn't lose that part of her. So I forced myself to let her go.

We only had Roe 6 months (she just celebrated her first Frostiversary a few weeks ago) but oh how she imprinted herself on my heart in that short time.

I will miss her cute cross eyes and her pointy raccoon nose, and her Chewbacca noises. But mostly I will miss how sweet she was with all her brothers, and how she was never pushy but always made her presence known. She was my baby girl.

I am grateful that in her 11 years she only had one really bad week. I hope she knew how hard I tried to give us both more time."

MAGGIE LYNN

Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: January 12, 2022
Date of Passing: February 10, 2023
Family: Alan Gormican
Fans: Wendy Forscher, Sherry G.

Tribute: On February 10th, Alan fulfilled his promise to Frosted Face Maggie Lynn.

He shared, "These emails are so hard. We had the vet come to the house yesterday to put down Maggie. She was really struggling this last week eating and walking and was starting to suffer. She was such a good girl. I remember when I got her you said she loves the couch. I thought, I have 5 different dog beds, she doesn't get the couch too. No other dogs I had got the couch. Didn't take long, but she got it.

Thank you for finding her, she was the best. I will miss her dearly."

ROXANNE

Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 7
Date of Rescue: January 12, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Jeff Pollock
Fans: Suzy Sayre, Kathy Lam

TANK

Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: January 14, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Alice & David Stanfill
Fans: Melissa Rowley

chonky the MUFFIN MAN

Acquired from: Riverside Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 7
Date of Rescue: January 14, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Samantha & Adolfo Marquez
Fans: Lindsay Matier

BARRY

Acquired from: Riverside Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: January 14, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Deb & Todd Barrett
Fans: Lani Marie, Warren Holland

winston

Acquired from: OC Animal Care
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: January 16, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Cliff Wright
Fans: David Velarde, Inner Solutions

BON JOVI

Acquired from: San DIego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: January 21, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Stephanie & Joshua Croston
Fans: Jennifer Stofferahn, Brookes Broughton

Percy

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 15
Date of Rescue: January 21, 2022
Date of Passing: April 28, 2023
Family: Angelina & Maxine Perez
Fans: Susan Simonson

Tribute: On April 28th, Angelica fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Percy.

She shared,

"Sambora was asleep in one of the doghouses, oblivious to the activity of Open House, when I met him in January 2022. Alicia had to drag him out and once in my arms, he just went right back to sleep. Even with his puffy bouffant, I could see that he was not a rocker like his name inferred; he was a sweet, calm, and gentle soul. I didn't hesitate when Alicia said, "He hasn't been seen by Dr. Russell yet, but you can take him home today if you want."

It took days to rename him a more befitting name. We went through lists online and nothing really fit him. We finally settled on Percy, because it was a good "old man" name and his ears actually perked up when we said it. From the start, Percy was quiet and unassuming. He never demanded attention; he was always a perfect gentleman - waiting patiently at meal time and by the back door to let me know he had to use the bathroom, never barking, standing (he never really liked to just sit) toward the back of the pack of dogs when greeted by humans, NEVER begging for food and taking treats ever so gently. When he was awake, he would follow me around the house closely and stand just a few feet away while I did whatever it was that I was doing. On walks, I was surprised, at 15 years old, just how far he could walk, albeit a little slower than our younger dogs. He was the greatest leash walker, never venturing more than a few feet away even on a retractable leash; he was mostly content just walking right next to me. Some people would have called him "boring," but I say that he was perfect. Do you know the middle child that gets forgotten, no matter how great they are, because they never ask for anything and are overshadowed by demanding older and younger siblings? That was my Percy - such a good boy, so mild mannered and well behaved, and yet never asked for attention, although he was happy to receive it.

Percy's health began to decline in the summer of 2022. By October, he exhibited clear signs of CCD. He would circle around for hours, suffered sleepless nights (and days), had to be fed with a spoon, stopped using his doggie stairs and had to be rescued from underneath chairs and room corners, just to name a few. Yet, he remained the perfect gentleman, happy to follow me around and be by my side but just a little less patient. He became more vocal, by just doing a quiet whimper to express himself when he wanted to go outside or couldn't find the water bowl.

The day came too soon when nothing I did could comfort Percy. His cry changed from a soft whimper to a loud screech, and this would happen every hour even with him taking a sleeping pill. I stretched this time on for months, because sometimes he would have a good spurt of several hours, and I would tell myself that he was "getting better." But, it was always short-lived, and he would return to 24 hour anxiety. While he was never violent, he didn't respond to my touch or soft words. He would look through and past me and his sibling dogs as if we weren't there, and I knew then that the kind of life he was living was no longer happy and purposeful; he was a shell of a dog, but empty inside. I emailed FFF and scheduled a euthanasia appointment late the following day. We picnicked outside in the uncommonly warm sun and ate McDonalds for lunch and dinner. That night, Percy suffered a gran mal seizure. Without going into details because it hurts too much to relive it, Percy hung on to make it to FFF in the morning, Just like the first day that I met him at Open House, Percy was oblivious to his surroundings when we arrived, only this time it was because of the seizure and CCD. How I long to just gather him into my arms again like that first day and have him just fall asleep. But, I find solace that he has finally found a peaceful sleep after his battle with CCD."

MEAT LOAF

Acquired from: VVAPL Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: January 21, 2022
Date of Passing: September 3, 2022
Family: Frosted Faces Foundation
Fans: Alexa Nealey & Family

Tribute: On September 3rd, we fulfilled our promise to Frosted Face Meat Loaf.

Meat Loaf came to us as an alleged stray with all of the classic signs for vestibular disease. As time went on with treatment, his head straightened, he walked better, and he proved to be a gentle giant.

Meat was a BIG boy who had degenerative joint disease in his right hip pretty terribly. We slowly added on medications one at a time from Carprofen, to Gabapentin, Tramadol, Amantadine, and Adequan. We fitted him in a Help Em Up Harness and even tried those pesky wheels, which he hated. He got acupuncture from Dr. Lipman and PT, Danielle, worked on him too. While we were trying to "fix" him we also kept on loving him.

Volunteers took him to the beach, wineries, the park or picnics, brushed him while keeping him company in the lobby, and took him on FFF hikes. He certainly had THE BEST vehicle at the Pride Parade too! Meat got picked to go on a Frosted Fling with Charlotte Stone, who has fostered all "the greats."

Meat Loaf began seeming more painful and frustrated when we tried to help him just a couple weeks ago. He hadn't walked alone for weeks, but his sparkle had always prompted us to keep trying for him. We adjusted his beds, his meds, and his harness just to make sure we weren't missing anything.

On Saturday, something was just different. We took x-rays and ran labs, and Dr. Russell reviewed them. Meat looked like he had a UTI and was having more trouble expressing his bladder fully, just one more thing we frequently battle with a down dog. He also seemed to have contracted a dab of pneumonia too which was the cause for his very high temperature likely. As we had already been discussing quality and really struggling to cope with the end, these smaller diagnoses caused by larger but related problems just seemed like it directed our hearts for him. It was time to set him free from his body.

We know so many people loved Meat Loaf, and he was not without family. He lived with more care and enrichment than many large dogs with his type of decline are afforded, and we are so grateful for all of the volunteers who made that happen.

We love you, Meat.

scooby

Acquired from: Carlsbad Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 5
Date of Rescue: January 21, 2022
Date of Passing: February 3, 2022
Family: Joy & Tony Vitrano
Fans: Jan Dally in Memory of Reno

Tribute: On February 3rd, Joy and Tony fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Scooby/Watts.

Watts was picked up as a stray with a senior shepherd we named Lars. The shelter asked us to rescue Lars, and we offered to take his Frosted Faker friend, Watts, too. The shelter neutered him, his bloodwork, urinalysis, x-rays, and fecal all came back unremarkable as expected and we placed him with a family.

Just days after placement Watts seemed boogery, had terrible diarrhea, and was quiet. We redid diagnostics and started him on supportive care. We sent out a fecal PCR which indicated he had clostridium, the organism that causes hemorrhagic gastroenteritis AND parvovirus. We were shocked, as we never see this in our Frosted Faces. These are two things vaccinated adult dogs typically survive and Watts just couldn't and passed on his own despite our best care. We are deeply sad to lose such a sweet dog with a loving family.

His new family relayed, "Thank you for the compassionate email and for all of the care you gave to Scooby. He quickly found a special place in our hearts. Strangely, it feels like we have been loving him for months, not days. We would love a paw print and have already talked about possibly making it into a Christmas ornament. Please also extend our gratitude to Dr. Russell. We appreciated his efforts and taking the time to call us directly."

LARS

Acquired from: Carlsbad Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: January 21, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Kerry & Ron Ferreirae
Fans: Tracy Landauer

Jolene

Acquired from: Harbor Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: January 23, 2022
Date of Passing: February 14, 2022
Family: Frosted Faces Foundation
Fans: Debbie

Tribute: Yesterday we fulfilled our promise to Frosted Face Jolene.

Jolene was surrendered to the shelter with a friend when her family moved and she could not go along. Her friend was adopted out separately, and long time Harbor Shelter volunteer, Anabelle Villanueva, reached out to us to make sure Jolene exited safely too.

Debbie Reily had the honor of doing her freedom ride to FFF. We noticed right away that she was breathing hard, and after doing diagnostics, started her on meds for hypertension and pain relief. Bloodwork indicated that she was also in kidney failure, with a creatinine of 3.2, BUN of 49, and a USG of 1.008.

Jolene had poor proprioception on one back foot, but she corrected it, and eagerly kept on smelling her new smells on walks. She was known for always having a stuffie in her mouth, and her snappy jaws when she thought you had treats in your hands or your fingers looked like hot dogs! Jolene fell into a romance with Frosted Face Timmy, so they shared a play yard during the day.

Jolene gradually became weaker to stand, and then it was shorter and shorter walks, then she became so painful we could hardly help her without getting bitten. We gave her time on a solid amount of pain meds hoping for inflammation to cease, but it just didn't work. The vet suspected that she was having an issue with a disc as she lost all deep pain in her hind leg that had been knuckling. Volunteers, Pat Hess and Angela McNeil, drove her to and from VSH for a neuro consult. We discussed doing an MRI and surgery if there was a solution, but that did not seem reasonable due to her chronic kidney disease.

Given her kidney values and/or pain, we had trouble getting her to eat in her last days, which included pilling her. We are all for wheelchairs and harnesses for down dogs to buy time if there is light in their sweet eyes, but Miss Jolene was so painful, we honestly couldn't let her go fast enough.

During Jolene's time at FFF she went on two hikes, both walking and strolled, she accompanied Ingrid Dahlin to a lunch date with friends, and laid in the lobby trying all of the food and getting pets from volunteers on Sunday. Hamburgers for the win that day!

We let her go with dignity surrounded by all of us staff who loved and did their best for her.

nash

Acquired from: Riverside Shelter
Age upon Rescue:12
Date of Rescue: January 27, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Robin & Jim Russel
Fans: Allison Force, Bobbie, Elizabeth Maughan, BuddyDog, Kristyn Molina

Cha cha

Acquired from: Riverside Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: January 31, 2022
Date of Passing: March 26, 2023
Family: Marie Summonte
Fans: Dawn Barnes, Mary Kane

Tribute: On March 26th, Marie fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Cha Cha after battling heart disease.

She shared,

"That’s kind of the only thing that’s holding me together, remembering the joy that she experienced in her last year here. All the photos we took, memories that my neighbors and friends, and I shared of her… She was happily pampered by us all, indulged by everyone and knew that she was loved. That was the most important thing for me."

ollie

Acquired from: Riverside Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: January 31, 2022
Date of Passing: January 29, 2024
Family: Jade Pavel & Sam Kikla
Fans: Kim & Robb, Scott Dortch

Tribute: On January 29th, Jade and Sam fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Ollie.

They shared,

"It’s with a heavy heart that I tell you we had to say goodbye on Monday. In the end he wouldn’t even eat treats or eggs or peanut butter and I had to hold him up to drink water. In his last day he couldn’t even stand even if I lifted him up. He was ready to go. We will miss his random sprints, his loud snores, his snuggles and sweet kisses, and even his stinky farts and uncanny ability to be directly in our paths at all times. He had the patience of a saint with his human sisters and fur sister. He was our Ollie boy, Sir Oliver long-dong, Oliver toots-a-lot, trash panda, hippopotomai, chunky boi, and Eeyore. He’s now young again running fast, with perfect hearing and a healthy body over the rainbow bridge. I know our non-FF Lola and Mochi welcomed him when he arrived. We were lucky to have loved him and had him for as long as we did. He taught me so much about adopting a pet and what comes with it. Thank you buddy for being patient with us. He had the most calm and gentle demeanor (unless you were giving him a treat- then watch out or you could lose a finger). He was 2 days shy of his 2nd Frostiversary and just under a month shy of two years at home with us. We thought we were going to have so much longer 💔. We will never forget you, our sweet sweet boy."

Rye

Acquired from: Riverside Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: January 31, 2022
Date of Passing: June 11, 2022
Family: Tanja & David Hasson
Fans: Kelly Lance, Allyson Mackinney, Fellow Beagle Hunter, Dog Devoted, Darsi Bakker

Tribute: On June 11th, Tanja and David fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Rye.

They shared,

"We helped Rye cross the rainbow bridge yesterday. I've tried several times to write this, it's so hard to write just how much I loved him just having had him in my life for two weeks. I'm fortunate in that I'm able to stay home most of the day and Rye only spent two or three hours alone during his time here.

I was honored to be his person, his caretaker and thank Kelly for trusting me and giving me the chance to love Rye. He not only captured my heart but my husband's as well and even Leland's who can be spicy towards other dogs. He declined quite quickly, thank you to the support group who answered my many emails with advice and kind words. And thank you, thank you Kelly and Andy for talking to me in my moment of need talking me through and supporting the decision to let Rye rest.

I'm devastated, my only regret in this journey with Rye is that I didn't take him sooner. I want more time, more adventures, more memories with Rye."

Bella Boo

Acquired from: OC Animal Care
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: January 31, 2022
Date of Passing: April 13, 2023
Family: Holly & David Zierden
Fans: Mary and Steve Carulo, Lori Powers

Tribute: On April 13th, Holly and Dave fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Bella Boo.

They shared,

"Dave and I are sad to let everyone know that we helped Bella Boo cross the Rainbow Bridge yesterday. After seeing Dr. Russell on the 4th, she had been having trouble walking. We thought it was because of the addition of an anti-seizure medication it takes a little time for dogs to get used to them.

Wednesday night it was obvious something else was wrong. Her breathing was labored, she couldn't stand up on her own. We could lift her on her legs, but she couldn't stand on her own. It was clear the pain meds weren’t working for her anymore. She was suffering and we didn’t want that for her. We took her VSH San Marcos so they could see her right away. A nurse gave Bella some turkey meat from her lunch that day to eat before she passed. They also got her some chicken baby food and a peanut butter cup to give to her as we were saying our goodbyes. Every dog should be able to try chocolate once before they cross the Rainbow Bridge.

We only had Bella Boo for three and a half months. We tried to make that time with her as special as we could because she deserved the world. She has been given up so many times and we promised her the day we adopted her we would never do that.

There are so many people whose lives have been touched by Bella. Thank you to everyone that took her on Flings and Fostered her, and those who walked with her on Sunday hikes. Thank you to Dr. Russell and the veterinary staff for always taking such great care of her. Thank you to her Fans that helped pay for Bella’s medical care at Frosted Faces. Thank you to the Family Support team. When it was time we want to make sure we are doing the best for Bella. We always want more time for our hearts but they agreed with our heads that it was time. Thank you, Kelly, Andy, and the kennel managers for everything you do to rescue seniors, take care of them onsite, continue to follow them after adoption and be there for the families. Thanks to the volunteers that offer their time on and off-site, and those who make donations so that more seniors can get rescued and help with medical surgeries, medicine, food, etc. It’s true when they say “It takes a village” and we are so glad to be a part of this organization.

When you’re looking for a senior, please don’t overlook those dogs that don’t come right up to you or act excited, Those that seem very non-chalet, or even stoic have been through a lot too and most have been given up so many times, they don't even try anymore for fear they will be returned. "If not you, then who?" Bella rarely showed excitement but when she did, it melted our hearts. She gave us lots of kisses yesterday as if to say, “It’s ok…it’s time.” She knew she was loved and that is what matters most."

Benji

Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: February 1, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Amanda Alfaro
Fans: Douglas Richards