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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.
Maple
Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: March 12, 2022
Date of Passing: December 18, 2022
Family: Mary Murphy
Fans: Alisa Trakulboon, The Thrasher Family
Tribute: On December 16th, Mary fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Maple.
She shared,
"I’m here to say my little angel Maple’s heart gave out and now she is everyone’s angel. She was such a gentle soul and I feel if dogs could smile…she would have smiled a lot. We made each other so happy. I am sad but with warm memories.
Thursday she stopped eating but was drinking. Friday- no eating & she was having severe breathing problems so I sought help from Veterinarian. I was told her lungs and tummy were filling with fluid.
She was such a delight for me and I am in extreme loneliness without her.
We had such a close relationship. I am heading for 82 and she was the ideal companion for me as I was for her. She stuck to me like glue."
Curtis
Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: March 12, 2022
Date of Passing: June 3, 2022
Family: Melinda & Keith Krupcyznski
Fans: Andrea Mendoza, Juiliet, Maria DiBenigno, Theresa Lowry
Tribute: On June 3rd, Melinda and Keith fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Curtis.
Melinda shared,
"Oh my goodness this little dude by the name of Curtis stole my heart from the very first picture Frosted Faces showed of him with their request for a hospice family. His kidney disease was stage 4 and he had 2 to 3 months perhaps. My optimistic self says yup but maybe with a home sprinkled with lots of TLC we could extend that window or at a minimum give him a great final chapter. And so it was on April 6th that he became my fur baby.
He was just the sweetest most chill dog ever. A couple of weeks in I had to go out and Keith told me that Curtis was barking for me to come home. I thought he was full of it…I had never heard Curtis bark once. That was his level of chill. Keith recorded it for me the next week when the grocery store beckoned me. Yup he barks and had something to say about my absence. Curtis was completely blind and mostly deaf. I loved when he was peacefully pitter pattering in the yard and I would clap and call his name. He recognized his name, my voice and he would find his way to me with the cutest little wagging tail. He was so proud when he would “find” me! He had the softest velvety ears and gorgeous soft fur. He would just melt into you when held.
I soaked him in knowing that our time may be limited. The days passed as they do. His eyes, anemia and his kidney values improved to stage 3. He was eating like a rock star and gaining weight! We were going down a positive path.
Then the seizures came and with that he lost his mobility and his cognition deteriorated rapidly. Although his mobility returned his cognition continued to decline to a point where all he did was bark absently, get stuck in place with no physical barrier there and pitter patter frantically at times in a drunken zig zag and circular pattern. I tried everything to console him but nothing worked with the exception of walking him in a sling…if I stopped walking or swaying all bets were off. The only peace found outside of that was when the gabapentin would sedate him. Existing in a sedated state is not living. This is where euthanasia is the most compassionate and graceful exit option one can give to their fur babies and the one I chose for Curtis yesterday.
Rest peacefully Curtis my love. I asked my other fur babies that passed before you to meet you at the bridge and help you learn the ropes there. Never good bye but see you later when my time arrives."
Panda
Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: March 12, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Kim & Andy Green
Fans: DS, Melanie Thorn, Linda Soule
Jameson
Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: March 12, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Maureen & Tim Warren
Fans: Sheryl Dufficy, Marissa Horn, Yudell Reiz
Johnny
Acquired from: Baldwin Park Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: March 17, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Luz de Estrella Chacon and Marisol Alvarez
Fans: Sheri Henshall, Anne Caston, Erin C., Kelly in Memory of Stewy
Bear Bop
Acquired from: Baldwin Park Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 15
Date of Rescue: March 17, 2022
Date of Passing: September 20, 2023
Family: John Severin
Fans: Stephanie Tillman, Zainab Alma, Crystal
Tribute: On September 20th, John fulfilled his promise to Frosted Face Bear Bop.
He shared,
"Bear Bop was one of the sweetest, goofiest dog’s I have ever had. He definitely marched to his own drummer. He was obsessed with food, but had peculiar tastes for a dog. He didn’t like bully sticks, but loved salad. I didn’t notice when he became blind, because his demeanor never changed, he was just as happy and silly as he always was, he just started bumping into things.
He never cared much for other dogs. At the dog park, he would ignore all of them and just make a circle around it, marking as much of it as he could. But he loved humans. He would cuddle up with every new person he met, looking at them with the “pet me, I’m cute” look. As my girlfriend would always say, 'all he wants is love.'"
Rylee
Acquired from: Baldwin Park Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: March 17, 2022
Date of Passing: April 14, 2022
Family: Delores DeLaRosa
Fans: Heidi Ostlund, Patricia & Pups
Tribute: On April 14th, Dolores fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Rylee.
Dolores had only committed to a Frosted Fling, little did she know she would be the final family for sweet Rylee after discovering an abdominal mass that had ruptured.
She shared,
"I know that Rylee had been on the property for a bit but the first time I became more acquainted with her was during the Frosted Fakers hike on March 27. I was walking with another dog but I shared the time along with my best friend Rose Chavez and the two dogs that she had that day. One of them was Rylee.
She was so cute and gentle and when the hike was over and we were sharing snacks she hungrily took all of my chicken and potatoes. With a belly full she laid down on the blanket next to me and she touch my heart.
After the hike I texted Kelly to see whether she had been cleared for a Fling, and two days later after washing dishes and doing the evening chores I brought Rylee home
For the first few days she didn’t make a peep but then after settling in she let out her song to her people, it was so cute. All she wanted to do was eat and sleep in her cozy bed. She got along famously with my two cats and my own personal dog.
I was so glad that I brought her home. Something about her spoke to me that she needed to be somewhere quiet and cozy. I don’t regret one single second for sharing my home and my heart with her. She didn’t spend too much time with us but I know that dogs live in the moment, day by day. Their only need is a full belly, a warm place to sleep and a tender hand and I hope that I gave that to her.
The day that Rylee passed, early that morning I knew something was wrong. She didn’t want to eat her breakfast even though I kept offering it several times. She did go out to have her morning pee and poop but once inside she kind of collapsed, I knew this was serious.
I immediately reached out to Frosted Faces support asking for advice. I scooped her up and took her to the animal hospital in the college area. They said they would try and get her stable but later they called me to let me know that she was not responding and she needed to be let go. I know she passed peacefully and that gives me great comfort.
I am honored to be a volunteer for Frosted Faces. I am always honored when Kelly puts her trust in me to bring a dog into my home and I will continue doing that.
Rest in sweet peace little Rylee "
Delilah
Acquired from: North Central Shelter-LA
Age upon Rescue: 18
Date of Rescue: March 17, 2022
Date of Passing: June 17, 2022
Family: Sue King
Fans: Melissa Pendleton, Vicky Boone
Tribute: On June 17th, Sue fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Delilah.
She shared,
“The shelter video of Delilah was heart wrenching. I had just lost FF Scarlett, and as I went to FFF to pick up her ashes, I said I was not ready that day to take another hospice dog but asked who was in need.
I met Delilah, held her in my arms, and that was it. I picked her up a few days later after she was vetted. We had a couple of rocky nights where her CCD was evident, but she settled in with a consistent routine. I began to understand when she howled, she usually had to potty, or it was meal time. She was an easy girl to take care of, oh sure, there was the occasional oops and she had to have a bath, but she was a good girl.
Delilah enjoyed tottering around the patio, managing to maneuver around table and chair legs, and doing lots of sniffing. She was nonvisual so her nose was her guide. Laying in the grass was also something she enjoyed. About a week before she passed, I watched her jog about 10 feet through the grass with her head up. I immediately imagined her as a younger pup, romping playfully through the grass with her head held up towards the sky. She didn’t enjoy being held for too long, but as she couldn’t navigate herself in/out of the house, I took that opportunity to hold her close and pet her as I carried her. I would also sit down on the floor and pet her as she lay in her dog bed, and she seemed to especially like little head massages.
Delilah had a grand mal seizure about a month after I adopted her, but she seemed to recover well, and we continued our day-to-day routine. I believe consistency is key especially with CCD dogs. Delilah had another seizure on June 9th, and I saw how this one impacted her. She became more vocal, got stuck more and started to do head pressing. June 13th once more she had another seizure, and this one started impacting her quality of life.
Delilah began to howl and cry almost every waking moment. I’d hold her, rock her, but what seemed to comfort her the most was just holding her and walking around. At night, I could put her back in her bed, and massage her head, and she’d fall back asleep. During the day when she was awake, I’d take her outside, but she couldn’t get more than a few feet without falling. Her cries of frustration were hard to hear, and I’d pick her up, pet her and tell her if was okay. Delilah had to have her food and water put right under her nose, otherwise she couldn’t find them. Delilah was existing, but with no joy in life.
I contacted the support team, and an appointment was made for Friday morning. This is the first time I’ve ever known in advance what the outcome was going to be. Thursday I held her close many times throughout the day, and that night I cried as I walked around with her to comfort her. I told her she was loved, and she’d soon be at peace. As I waited on Friday morning with her, I knew it was the right thing to do, but my heart wanted to be able to give her so much more.
I held her tightly to me, crying, telling her over and over that she was loved and was such a good girl. Delilah went peacefully, and as I held for a bit afterwards, I stroked her head, and kissed her and I could feel the fur was wet on top of her head where my tears had fallen.
Oh sweet Delilah, I wish I had the opportunity to know you when you were younger and full of energy. But now, sweet girl, I picture you running across green grass, your head held high, and barking with joy. I love you Delilah, you will always be in my heart.
Thank you to Frosted Faces Foundation for rescuing Delilah, and much appreciation to Melissa Pendelton and Vicky Boone for being her Fans.”
Paco
Acquired from: Chula Vista Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: March 21, 2022
Date of Passing: April 7, 2023
Family: Joanna Rivera & Tony Lucas
Fans: Ashley, Cliff & Ernie; Eve Stylianides
Tribute: On April 7th, Joanna and Tony fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Paco.
She shared,
"Today would have been Paco's and our adoptiversary. I wish we could have had him in our lives sooner. Paco was the perfect addition to our family and was pretty much the best lil guy! We miss him and will cherish the moments we shared. 6 days shy of a year yet it feels like we knew each other longer.
Frida, our OG frosted face, misses him dearly. They enjoyed snuggling on Paco's terms lol, sharing food, and correcting their puppy cousin. We miss Paco and are so grateful for the time we were allowed to have him.
RIP PAC"
Arizona
Acquired from: OC Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: March 21, 2022
Date of Passing: May 14, 2023
Family: Starlite & Mitch Ossiginac
Fans: Lois Taylor, Shannon S. , Greta & Lynn, Shannon Mastel, Flingma Jen
Tribute: On May 14th, Mitch and Starlite fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Arizona.
They shared,
"We got Arizona (aka Barkles) from Frosted Faces in July 2022. She was about to have her arm removed and I was nervous about having a tripod, but I couldn’t resist her snuggly demeanor and have you seen that face? Her surgery was really rough the first night. We googled it because she seemed like she was in a crazy amount of pain (she wasn’t, and the reaction was normal).
Even though she was diagnosed with osteosarcoma from that removal, she seemed great. She adjusted and did really well for some time. She loved her cute outfits, she loved getting strangers to pet her, she loved laying out in the sun, she loved loved LOVED digging in the bushes, and she loved laying on my lap, which I am pretty sure was her favorite thing ever. We had so many great memories. We tried hard to take her to the regional park as many days as we could. I would let her do whatever she wanted to do when we went out, and if that meant chillin in a bush for 5 minutes, that was fine. We took her up north on vacation with us, to the beach, and just on regular outings because she also loved car rides. She was beyond spoiled and beyond loved. Towards the end, she couldn’t get up, couldn’t stand, needed help to go potty, and nothing was helping her anymore. She had multiple flare ups with slipped discs, spinal arthritis, some torn acls, she was anemic- I couldn’t keep track of it all and she was fading.
She left us on Mothers Day, May 14th and I still think about her every day and cry (a whole box of tissues just to write this). We were so close and since I worked from home, she was never alone for more than a trip to the store or occasional outing. She was very chatty and would give this weird growl that we loved to imitate whenever she wanted food, to go out, a treat. If all those things weren’t it, she was just letting me know I needed a break to snuggle with her. Even though we only had her for 10 months, I have no less than 1 million pictures and videos of her. My mother has always been a little afraid of dogs. When we were going down to FFF, she said, “please don’t get a pitbull”. Well of course that wasn’t going to alter my choice and after she met Barkles she quickly fell in love with her. She came over all the time to see her “buddy”. Every night she asked for her nightly picture of her, and she would come over just to have her sit on her lap and relax or to sit out and sunbath with her. I’ve never seen my mother that fond of a dog before but Barkles had a way with people. She was the sweetest, most snuggly dog I have ever known, and she is missed dearly each day.
I want to thank Kelly for making the introduction to us, Dr. Russel for taking care of her, and the entire FF crew for everything you do every day. I wouldn’t have had this sweet pup without you all and for that I am so grateful."
Ren
Acquired from: Long Beach Animal Care Services
Age upon Rescue: 6
Date of Rescue: March 22, 2022
Date of Passing: October 18, 2023
Family: Janet Kohrmann
Fans: Kirsten Rutherford, Loren Taylor
Tribute: On October 18th, Janet fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Ren.
She shared,
"Like all the other FF adopted dogs, Ren was the best. They all truly are, and they bring so much love and joy to their homes. I had gone to FF to meet another dog but when I saw Ren slowly navigating the littles yard, trying to find a spot where he could safely lay down with a fence behind him. I instantly knew he was blind as he had the same characteristics as my non-FF at home, who was also blind.
Ren was a smart pup. He learned to walk on a leash in just a few days, and completely mapped the house and neighborhood in a week or so. He responded well to clicker-training and treats and caught on quickly. After a month or so, I could tell that even though he was blind, his eyes were causing him pain so with Kelly’s support, his eyes were removed. What a difference! Now I had a happy, bouncy, energetic little man. He was a neighborhood favorite with the kids on our walks.
Ren’s followed me around the house and was comfortable wherever I was. His favorite time of day was after dinner time when he would jump up onto the couch and get the zoomies before getting in his snuggle time. He slept on the bed with me, curled up in his blankie next to his non-FF bff, which was the next best thing to couch zoomies.
He was such a joy to have around and I truly miss having my little man, my little snuffle pig, next to my side. "
Maguay
Acquired from: Long Beach Animal Care Services
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: March 22, 2022
Date of Passing: June 15, 2022
Family: Mary Smith & Timothy Reed
Fans: Gina Gattari, Emery Johnson
Tribute: On June 15th, Mary and Timothy fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Maguay.
Maguay entered Long Beach Shelter as a stray and was not claimed. She had terrible ear infections and a foreign body in her intestines.
We did the surgery to remove the foreign body, spayed her, and treated her ears. Maguay was quite stoic upon rescue and a hot commodity. Maguay was placed in a home who saw aggressive tendencies that could lend itself to an explanation of barrier aggression, but not consistently. We took her back into our care to assess her where we began to say the same thing. We would never say a negative behavior is unprovoked, but moreso, misunderstood. What we saw was sweet or frozen Mags, and then she would start circling us and bite our feet very hard! Was it herding? Was it our feet?
We took her on leashed hikes and carried her around like a doll baby, but set her in an x-pen when she was down because her biting behavior was so consistent with people free in an open area with people walking around.
Another family came along who said they had dealt with behavioral dog, and after fully disclosing Mag's tendencies, they were down to try! After just two days they saw exactly what we were seeing and so sweetly evaluated each point of aggression calling it an "episode." They noticed she was unable to walk after her fits and timed them. Aha! Of course, it was fair to evaluate this from a medical perspective too!
We offered to send her in for a neuro consult and MRI, and therein was the answer. Dr. Gagnepain let us know that the brain MRI identified severe hydrocephalus and thinning of the cerebral cortex. This malformation and subsequent changes to the
cerebral cortex is the cause of her abnormal behavior and episodes of aggression. He discussed quality of life in depth with us and the adopters. He said that her case has been going on for so long that the damage was likely permanent and medications would not help. Hydrocephalus is painful, and with her behavior fluctuating from staring in a frozen stance to aggression that seemed fear based, euthanasia was the kind option. Mary and Tim got to be with Maguy as they send her soul to heaven.
Mary shared,
"Mags went from having moments of clarity to being confused/ overwhelmed/seemingly in pain, and aggressive due to her hydrocephalus. In her moments of clarity she would look at us with the sweetest, most intelligent eyes.
She wanted so much to be a part of a family and would follow me everywhere, snuggle with the other dogs during the day, and sleep wedged up against me at night. In her moments of confusion, she liked to be held snuggly until the confusion passed. Although we only had her a few days, we will always remember the sweet side of her, and hope that she knew in her final few days that she was very much loved."
Suzie
Acquired from: Long Beach Animal Care Services
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: March 22, 2022
Date of Passing: June 22, 2023
Family: Shirley & John Tweedell
Fans: Patricia Whaley
Tribute: On June 22nd, Shirley fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Suzie.
She shared,
"My little Suzie, aka Topeka, crossed the Rainbow Bridge yesterday. She acted like she had a stroke last Sunday. I took her to emergency at VSH. They recommended and booked an MRI Thurs. Because it could have been one of the many reasons for her health issues, we prayed for lesser possibilities. However, results showed stroke and severe cognitive decline and decreasing brain tissue with no solutions to help her. With no quality of life possible, and with how she was at home, we made the decision while she was still sleeping from the anesthesia.
She was my baby girl and we had her for little over a year. Thank you to Frosted Faces for rescuing her from Long Beach Humane Society. She had been a stray for they did not know how long. Frosted Faces treated her, I saw her, and adopted her. I am glad to be her for over a year. She was my sweet little girl I called Suzie Q. We miss her already, and I feel such loss of my baby girl and wish I could have held her as she crossed to play with all her previous friends. 🙏"
Shilo
Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: March 22, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Imogene Milan
Fans: Lisa Scimemi
roxy
Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: March 22, 2022
Date of Passing: April 14, 2023
Family: Michelle & Damon Vasquez
Fans: Maatje D Scherpenisse, Ingrid D.
Tribute: On April 14th, Michelle and Damon fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Roxy.
They shared,
"Roxy started slowing down, eating less, so we decided to give her everything a dog wants. We bought her endless patties from In & Out. Sometimes she would eat them, and sometimes she would not. It feels nice to know she passed away while she was sleeping. It hit my husband and I so hard since we have not had a loss like this in a long time. Thank you for what you guys do, it means a lot to us."
bingo
Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: April 3, 2022
Date of Passing: October 29, 2023
Family: James & Ann Morales
Fans: Karol Holman, MM
Tribute: On October 29th, Ann and James fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Bingo.
They shared,
"My Dear Bingo,
I can’t tell you how much I miss you. I miss seeing you next to me and your bed. I do miss you so much. the way your tail would wag when I came in the door from being out. the way you liked going outside and running around the backyard. I know that you are now at peace and the pains of this life that plagued you so much are not harming you anymore. Rest in peace my friend until we meet again. I love you Bingo! "
Benji
Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: April 6, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Sharyn Noll
Fans: Stephannie Peters in memory of Steve & Pappi, James Minton
Lobo
Acquired from: Baldwin Park Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 15
Date of Rescue: April 6, 2022
Date of Passing: August 10, 2022
Family: Frosted Faces Foundation
Fans: Cela, Nancy Hoffman, Mariana Tanjuakio, Mollie M., Philip A., Kelli Nims in Memory of Mary, Linda Soule
Tribute: Today we fulfilled our promise to Frosted Face Lobo.
Lobo was surrendered to the shelter in terrible condition. He was weak, emaciated, and had scabs all over his whole body from a bacterial infection likely caused by itching at a flea infestation. Lobo's guardian relinquishing responsibility of him was the best thing to happen to Lobo in a very long time.
It was clear that Lobo's guardian probably saw that he was declining, and diagnostics told the tale. He was in kidney failure, anemic, and he suffered from a large perineal hernia making it painful and inefficient to poop. We began treating his skin, kidneys, arthritis, and anemia with a slew if medications and injections. Luckily the guy liked to eat so he had no trouble taking meds! He won the prize for the dog on the most medications at FFF, right behind the late Chulo.
Day after day Lobo got stronger and could stand better for longer! He even hiked whole FFF hikes on leash with volunteers a few times. When Lobo was well, he loved playing with Frosted Face Zucky in the yard play bowing and posturing with him. Lobo spent mornings in the FFF lobby where he begged for treats and clumsily chased up the cat tower. Lobo knew how to fetch a ball too! It was pretty amazing to see such a sick neglected dog, forgivingly enjoy humans and play again.
Lobo's health has been through ups and downs the last few months, and surprisingly, it mostly had to do with the proprioception of his front feet. He would go stretches where he could not walk at all, and then if we even whispered the words "quality of life," he was up on his feet the next day! Every time he bounced and did well for several days, he deteriorated even more significantly on his bad days. For as much as he ate, he continued to lose weight slowly, and we knew the disease process was winning. We agreed to jack up the frequency of his prednisone, despite the contraindications for his kidney disease, and give him one more good run. This last week, despite the sunshine in Lobo's eyes, he could not use any of his legs and it was time to let go.
We tell volunteers around here to play favorites. That's right, pick your favorite dog and show up for them. Although our goal is a permanent family for every Frosted Face, in the meantime, all they have is us and we need to treat them as our own and make them feel special. Lobo was volunteer, Kim Hyland's, favorite. She volunteers 3+ hours nearly 4 nights/week every single week since she met Lobo. Kim cooks him special food and leaves it in the fridge for us to feed breakfast and dinner. Although Lobo could be bitey when handled wrong, Kim was never scared of him. She womanned up, and heaved him to his feet for potty breaks and walks, and kept his little bum clean. She watered him, tucked him in, made sure his kennel had the softest blankets and rug for traction, and gave him goodnight treats. She hiked him on weekends, took him out to breakfast, and strolled him in the Pride Parade.
I would hate to discount what all of the other volunteers did for Lobo too! He had a very big family! Lobo's Fan, Cela, came to visit him many weekends to stroke his fur in the lobby and talk to him. Many volunteers strolled Lobo on Sunday hikes- he didn't miss a single one! Kate Trinity was all about the tough love for sweet Lobo, she knew he was a fighter, and she bathed his bum many mornings and made up his lobby bed. Volunteers, Felix, Shelley, Mary, Ally, Daniel, Jen, Danielle, and David all consistently spent a lot of time with Lobo giving him love.
Today we all gathered around Lobo and sent him to heaven. His person, Kim, held his face and gave him all her tears. Lobo's remains will get to go home with her forever.
Nugget
Acquired from: OC Animal Care
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: April 11, 2022
Date of Passing: June 23, 2022
Family: Vicki and Jose Laguda
Fans: Jan & Eric, Elaine Byrnes, Nikki & Peanut
Tribute: On June 23rd, Vicki and Jose fulfilled their promise to Nugget after battling kidney failure.
They shared,
"Sadly Nugget took a turn for the worst Thursday, and he passed over the rainbow bridge on Thursday afternoon. He got one last stroller ride that morning.
He was loved by me, my daughter my husband and my friends and family. I only had him for a short period of time. His 'Gotcha Day' was Mother's Day. I got everything he needed to make him comfortable. Belly bands, sling, stroller, dog beds but most of all tender loving care. My friend, Melody, watched him if I was going to be gone longer than an hour so. She, to,o bonded with sweet Nugget (aka giraffe neck) Nug Nug, Nuggie.
I had the support of everyone from Frosted Faces and am so grateful for the kindness. I bawled quite a bit Thursday then took a long nap after his passing.
When he first got here he slept a lot during the days but came alert at night. We’d find him exploring. His most favorite place though was the kitchen. He got lots of air fryer chicken, steaks and tri tip. Occasionally eating pet fresh or kibble. He got a few trips to fiesta island.
Like I said before, I really wished I would have had him from the beginning of his life."
Precious
Acquired from: Final Wish
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: April 10, 2022
Date of Passing: March 9, 2024
Family: Nina Nguyen
Fans: Cynthia Dean, Melissa Muik
Tribute: On March 9th, Nina fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Precious.
She shared,
"This last Saturday, March 9th my beautiful sweet girl, Precious crossed the rainbow bridge.
Queen Precious was such a cautious curious gal that always needed to walk around the house, checking each room on a regular basis. She loved to explore outside and eat chicken. She was not a chihuahua that slept all day, she wanted to see what was going on in life.
She recently started on heart meds (thank you Dr Russell) in the last week and I really thought was on the mends. My baby girl was home and in my arms when it happened and I am so glad to have had almost 2 years with her.
Her sister, Mimi is missing her and looking around for her so she is getting extra loves right now. I do miss Precious little tap tap taps as she walked the perimeters of our home every day. Its so quite now. Thank you FFF for letting me be part of Precious life."
Mimi
Acquired from: Final Wish
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: April 10, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Nina Nguyen
Fans: The Chotiners, Weseman Family
Ben
Acquired from: Corona Animal Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 17
Date of Rescue: April 11, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Jennifer Waters & Winston Stauffer
Fans: Richard Dixon, Corrine, Rhonda
Callan
Acquired from: Coachella Valley Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: April 13, 2022
Date of Passing: May 2, 2022
Family: Frosted Faces Foundation
Fans: Julie Boyes, Michelle Miller, Nicole Guizar, For Stormy
Tribute: On May 2nd, we fulfilled our promise to Frosted Face Callan.
Callan was returned from his Fling to be monitored and treated by the veterinary staff for his incessant coughing. Callan had a collapsing trachea and a bad heart, and while he was hospitalized began acting neurologic. He had multiple seizures on that Monday and he passed during one of the episodes while being transferred to the ER for overnight care when the FFF vet closed. Brave volunteers, Greg and Laura Kitchen, held him closely and Laura said she gave him a prayer as he passed.
We wanted so much for Callan to be well and find family, but he was discarded when he was suffering and he died while we were fighting for him.
Fly high, sweet boy.
Chevy
Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: April 14, 2022
Date of Passing: May 13th, 2022
Family: Gail Thurston
Fans: Jennifer Carroll, Megan Eustace
Tribute: On May 13th, Robert and Gail fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Chevy.
Chevy had been having odd episodes of weakness that looked almost vestibular. He saw Dr. Russell a couple times, including the morning of his passing, where he identified an abdominal mass. Chevy was still upright and interactive, so we gave palliative medications a try but later that evening he passed in the arms of his family. The timing was all too coincidental knowing his dad of a lifetime passed just last month.
"We are sad to have lost him so soon. He was starting to make good progress here, until he had some sort of episode that one weekend. Before that, he had the house and yard all figured out. He would run and chase Piper, our other pup, he enjoyed watching movies with us in the evening, he was eating good, and he considered himself a member of the family. He followed us and everywhere and became involved in with what we were doing.
It has left a vacant spot in our hearts and home. I still talk to him everyday and let him know we loved him.
We have thought about adopting another Frosted Face, but it’s too soon yet. We are still healing from Chevy. Thank you for ALL that your organization does for the pups and the people who love them. Thank you for the beautiful memorial box and paw print of Chevy.
Rosalee
Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: April 17, 2022
Date of Passing: July 10, 2023
Family: Vanessa Garcia & Nicholas Peluso
Fans: Debbie DeLaCruz
Tribute: On July 10th, Nick and Vanessa fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Rosalee after battling CCD. They wished they had known her sooner so they could have loved her for longer.
Ash
Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: April 17, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Steve Weinberger and Marna Venzke
Fans: Jack Hart, Dee Hickman & Beth Perkins
Miso
Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: April 17, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Nicole & Daniel Assisi
Fans: Meyer Mutts, Sofia Merida, Tator
Hoppy
Acquired from: Downey Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: April 17, 2022
Date of Passing: April 4, 2023
Family: Erika Birky
Fans: Jennifer Roetman, Michael Brourman
Tribute: On April 4th, Erika fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Hoppy.
She shared,
"Hoppy has passed away peacefully at home with a day of ice cream and pancakes. 😭❤️. We had a hard last month of vet visits to control a cough and breathing issues. We tried so hard. She was miserable and up all night coughing and pacing and just panting. My vet and I decided not to put her through any more tests, etc. I was there with her the whole time at home on her favorite blanket.
My kids and I will never forget her. She taught us so much. My husband passed away about a year and a half ago and the first thing my 6 year old said was, 'Hoppy gets to meet Daddy!' He said it with such joy. I was wrecked but also so grateful for joy and remembering that heaven is a no pain place to be. ❤️. Thank you for letting us be a part of Hoppy's life."
Broderick
Acquired from: OC Animal Care
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: April 18, 2022
Date of Passing: July 8, 2022
Family: Andy & Kelly Smíšek
Fans: Danielle Boulier, Joni Duke
Tribute: On July 8th, we fulfilled our promise to Frosted Face Broderick.
Broderick was a stray to OC Shelter where they urgently requested a rescue exit because they suspected he was in heart failure. Upon further diagnostics we learned that he had a lung mass causing fluid in his lungs.
Once he was on some good medication he acted like he could go on living forever! He loved playing with toys, he was super sneaky fast through doorways which made it no wonder he was a stray, highly food motivated, and liked to hump his friends. He was even a little naughty guarding his space and would give love bites!
After spending some time with different families who wanted to help, we decided to move him in with the Smíšek fam on May 26th! He made sure that everyone knew he got the biggest Costco bed, begging for kitchen scraps was his game, and he danced around the lobby yard with Chompson.
We started to notice him declining about a week ago so we took him on a special staycation at the beach where we watched the sunset, went biking, out to breakfast, he cuddled in bed with us, watched a movie, and took a nap under a big tree on the bay being held as closely as possible. All of the things you wish you could do every day if there were 50 less homeless dogs and life didn't get in the way. Brodie soaked it all in.
Near the end of last week Brodie's lungs got quite congested, and although he rallied like once before, it was short lived. By Friday, his little body was all done and we could not buy or beg for more quality days.
Thank you to Michelle Williams and Delia Haust for the special care that you gave Brodie during his time at FFF. As always, thank you to the Kennel Managers, Maira, Alicia, and Lexi, who practically live with us caring for the Frosted Faces and taking the Smíšek dogs and cats under your wings as well. Thank you Brodie's medical sponsoring Fans, Danielle Boulier and Joni Duke. You should have seen the little guy's pill planner, it was like a box of candy!
Brodie's sad little otter eyes begging for just one more day to do fun things and not have cancer stealing his body away...he loved life and he loved his people... just breaks my heart.
We love you, B.
Oreo
Acquired from: Owner Surrender
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: April 18, 2022
Date of Passing: December 15, 2023
Family: Jeri Lyn Egbert
Fans: Nancy Dagdag, Allison Oster Coaching
Tribute: On December 15th, Jeri fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Oreo.
She shared,
"He was suffering and in end stage kidney failure, not eating, not drinking and vomiting. His little body was failing fast and he was miserable. We had visited urgent care several times over the past week and he was getting worse with no real treatment options - so I made the decision. He passed peacefully and comfortably at home yesterday afternoon.
Thank you for the opportunity to take care of this little guy in his final year and half, he became my shadow and constant companion. The house feels really empty without him."
Penny Lane
Acquired from: Final Wish
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: April 18, 2022
Date of Passing: October 19, 2023
Family: Claudi Freeman & Michael Spillane
Fans: Teresa Petro, Joal Santoro-Yatsenick, Christa Paws Closet
Tribute: On October 19th, Claudi fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Penny Lane.
She shared,
"My goofy girl loved the cat bed even though she had her own bed in my bedroom and another bed in the living room. Penny was the perfect dog! She fit right in she loved everybody my grandkids the cats and especially me! There isn't anything much better than coming home to a wagging tail, kisses and unconditional ❤️
She loved to lay in the sun and I just had the perfect setup for that! Sometimes Izzy the black cat would lay with her 😸
This is Penny Lane in the car she loved it! When I got home in the morning after taking my grandson to school she sits by the car she wants to sit in there until we go to the park 😊
I miss her terribly😥"
Grits
Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue:
Date of Rescue: April 21, 2022
Date of Passing: April 28, 2022
Family: Frosted Faces Foundation
Fans:
Tribute: On Thursday we lost one of our baby kittens, Grits. We are helping bottle feed five kittens from @humanesocietyic and they are all named after a breakfast item.
Everyone was doing so well, but Baby Grits started getting weak on Wednesday. Dr. Lipman helped us work her up diagnostically, and by Thursday afternoon she took one "meow" when we noticed her posturing oddly, and was gone. We are new to this task, but we learned that this was likely from fading kitten syndrome and there was very little to be done. Imagine being the only 5 kittens on site, we put a lot of love into these guys and it's sad to see one not make it.
We love being able to help in this way, and I wanted to give a special shout out to tech, Michelle, who really spent a lot of time and energy working up Grits and making her feel loved before she passed.
The other four kittens are doing well and you are welcome to visit them at Open House this weekend. Also, remember to reach out to your local shelter to find out if they need help bottle feeding! It's a short commitment, and so rewarding!
Zara
Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 10 days
Date of Rescue: April 21, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Cassandra & Joaquin Ornelas
Fans: Ellyn in memory of Cozmic
Quiche
Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 10 days
Date of Rescue: April 21, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Jorge Soto
Fans: R.D. Kardon, Author
harvey
Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 10 days
Date of Rescue: April 21, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Lindsay Matier
Fans: Jenna P.
yuzu
Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 10 days
Date of Rescue: April 21, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Brianna Brassard & Michael McCloskey
Fans: Heather Thurman
Tommie
Acquired from: Owner Surrender
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: May 1, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Kathy Lam & Kayo Tominago
Fans: Tami Schnitman, Heather Trzeciak, Pat Gregoire, Julie Boyes, Diane Morton, Linda Lloyd, Jennifer P., Stephanie, Marti O’Hara
Holly
Acquired from: Final Wish
Age upon Rescue: 15
Date of Rescue: May 1, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: James Sommers
Fans: Monica Sanchez
Eggs
Acquired from: Owner Surrender
Age upon Rescue:
Date of Rescue: May 5, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Jorge Soto
Fans: Donor in memory of Bubba
Cubin
Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 15
Date of Rescue: May 5, 2022
Date of Passing: October 30, 2023
Family: Veronica O. Carroll
Fans: Elizabeth Sulack, Emily Kazmierski
Tribute: On October 30th, Veronica fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Cubin.
She shared, "I love these photos of Cubin, to see how he was very comfortable as soon as he got here. He loved the rainbow bed!! When we went to vet a few months ago they took him in the back for testing, walked with the assistant but turned to look at me as if making sure I was still going to be there when he came out. I reassured him everything was going to be ok. He was also so lovable and so protective of his sister. I’m glad we got to keep him as long as we did but I also know he knew when to rest. Thank you all!"
Valerie
Acquired from:B onita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: May 5, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Veronica O. Carroll
Fans: Kathy R.
Smidge
Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: May 5, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Betty & Craig Maloof
Fans: Rhonda M., Kristen Hammer, Sarah & Aaron In Honor of Cash
Wilson
Acquired from: Chula Vista Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: May 5, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Leigh & Malik Ismail
Fans: Jennifer Jones, Lisa Kroon, Irina Kopchinsky, Oliver V.
Felipe
Acquired from: Chula Vista Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: May 5, 2022
Date of Passing: October 2, 2023
Family: Megan Kennedy
Fans: Lisa Dvorak, Randi Whitcomb
Tribute: On October 2nd, Megan and Olivia fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Felipe after battling Insulinoma and CCD.
Olivia shared,
Trying to find one picture that shows Felipe’s personality is hard. He had all the personality, and none at the same time. When we went to Frosted Faces, Felipe chose us. He chose us to give him the last few year of his life. I love this certain picture of him and will remember him as the silly dog that loves to wear sweaters, glasses, bow ties, and hats. I have a Felipe hole size in my heart, but I will remember all of the “firsts” we gave him, the memories of his zoomies, and his funny quirks. We spent a year and some change getting to know Felipe and I wish it was longer.
Megan shared,
"Felipe loved going on walks and driving around, looking around at the world. He had so much to say in such a little bark and everyone always said the same thing about him “he’s so handsome! Look at his snagged tooth!” Everyone loved being around Felipe and even if he didn’t realize who he was around, he loved being around people. Felipe brought a lot of love, happiness, and laughter into peoples lives and he will be missed.
Always loved, never forgotten."
Shadow
Acquired from: Chula Vista Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: May 17, 2022
Date of Passing: June 10, 2023
Family: Sylvia Ciampoli
Fans: Jerry the Min Pin, Danielle Wells, Bitsy Loerky
Tribute: On June 10th, Sylvia fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Shadow.
Poor Shadow battled heart disease for almost the whole year. Her mom and Seniors for Seniors liaison, Kaci Whisler, worked together to get her to and from frequent vet appointments. Shadow enjoyed laying on her mom's arms and going on short walks.
Shadow was Sylvia's daily focus and she will be greatly missed.
george
Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: May 20, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Darby Boudreaux
Fans: In Honor of Miranda
Ricki Lake
Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: May 20, 2022
Date of Passing: April 4, 2023
Family: Kent & Lynda Schofield
Fans: Jadey Paye, Laura Alvarez
Tribute: On April 4th, Kent and Lynda fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Roxy.
Roxy was diagnosed with congestive heart failure, and her vet could not control it anymore with the underlying kidney disease. She loved her walks and slept in bed with Kent and Lynda every night. She made them very happy and was their constant companion. Kent relayed that although they miss sweet Roxy, Frosted Face Ryder knows they are sad and sits at their feet.
Lenora
Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 20
Date of Rescue: May 20, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Linda Soule
Fans: Pamela Oosterhuis, Corinne Marteeny
Sean Bean
Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: May 20, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family:Kari & Mark Benoit
Fans: Valerie Moody, Sofia Merida
gracie
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society- Escondido
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: May 23, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Ellie & Ross Kingsbury
Fans: Lauretta J, Jennifer Carroll
Petey
Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 7
Date of Rescue:May 23, 2022
Date of Passing: June 16, 2023
Family:Masako Tamashiro & Crystal Vazquez
Fans: Amber Daugherty, Dawn Joslen, Jenn Lewis
Tribute: On June 16th, Masako and Crystal fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Petey.
They shared,
"I don’t know how to begin this post, I wish it wasn’t a post I have to make.
Crystal and I made the painful decision to let Petey run free on this past Friday. He wasn’t responding to the increase of phenobarbital and was still having multiple focal seizures each day. He wasn’t able to walk on his own, was often dazed & confused, had to be diapered and lost his interest in food. I am sure he would’ve continued to fight until he simply couldn’t anymore, but we had to let him go with the dignity he deserved.
When we first brought Petey home, I told Crystal: “this is going to be perfect. He’s older than our other ones, so he’ll be calm & easy.” Boy, was the joke on us! Petey was full of energy, loved to play with his Non-FF brother, Max, loved his walks/runs and doing tricks for snacks. He was our living alarm clock, set for breakfast time, lunch time, dinner time. Never a minute late. He was our guard dog, dutifully watching our home and protecting us on walks. He spent the first few months with us going to work with Crystal, the first full time shop-dog. He loved it there and seemed to remember her regular customers. He was perfect for us.
We are heartbroken at losing him so soon. One year with him was not enough. I miss his underbite, the way he would run up the stairs, his sashay as he would walk, his beautiful big eyes that would talk me.
He was the bravest boy and so smart. I miss everything about him.
I hope he knew how much he was loved. Our home feels quiet without him, he’s left such an empty space here.
Kelly, Andy, Dr Russell, all the Vet techs (a special hug to Diana), all the employees, the volunteers, fans and FF family: thank you for loving Petey. For giving him a second chance, one where his story didn’t end as a hoarded dog in an RV.
My sweet boy, I love you always forever. Near and far closer together. Everywhere, I will be with you. Everything, I will do for you."