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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.
sassafras
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: November 9, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Loree Cook
Fans: Lori Aston, Carolyn Austin in honor of Morgan
meatball
Acquired from: Moreno Valley Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: November 9, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Hayley Widdes
Fans: Laura Roberts
Sloane
Acquired from: Moreno Valley Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: November 9, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Alice & David Stanfill
Fans: Lois & Jack Jack, Tanya Nielsen
Smith
Acquired from: Moreno Valley Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 5
Date of Rescue: November 9, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family:
Fans: Christine Castiglioni, Alicia Masteller
huey
Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: November 10, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Delia Haust
Fans: Elvia Valenzuela, Jenn & Chris
Jude
Acquired from: Humane Society of Imperial County
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: November 10, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: William & Diane Huth
Fans: Michael Brourman in memory of Cagney, Shannon & Gigi, Joe Oviatt
Max Mailman
Acquired from: Final Wish
Age upon Rescue: 16
Date of Rescue: November 10, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family:
Fans: Randa Chichakli, Laurie Gentry
Louis
Acquired from: Owner Surrender
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: November 14, 2022
Date of Passing: October 19, 2023
Family: Nina Russell
Fans: Lois T. in memory of my Dad; Barbara McAlister, Jennifer Wilson; Donor in memory of Walter ‘the Walligator’ Best; Lori, Frankie & Lulu, Pamela Aikman
Tribute: On October 19th, Nina fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Louis.
She shared,
"I’m devastated to share that my bestest boy, Louis, passed away on Thursday, October 19. I started fostering Louis in February 2023, I loved him from day 1 and secretly (or probably not so secretly) hoped that he would never get adopted because I loved him so much. Louis got along with my pack immediately and fit in like he had always been with us. He was the SWEETEST boy and such an ambassador for the pittie breed. I never heard him bark once in 8 months and he would never hurt a fly!
Despite Louis’ reputation for loving the bathroom while at FF, he loved hanging out with visitors at my house. He wanted to be in the mix and would solicit pets or stare at people for food. He was such a gentle soul except for when it came to treats. You had to watch your fingers when giving him a treat unless you wanted to lose your fingers! But you could never be mad (even if he chomped on your fingers) because of his eyes…he had the most insanely sweet eyes so he usually got more treats or whatever else he wanted.
Louis had a myriad of health problems and pretty consistently saw the vet at FF. He had good days and bad days. I thought Wednesday was a bad day and he would bounce back on Thursday. I gave him extra snuggles that night and kissed him good night. He slept well but Thursday morning he woke up and was panting (which was abnormal) and had pale gums. Jennifer Rothman (my angel) immediately gave me the green light to take him to FF. I had him in the back seat so I could hold his paw while I drove and told him I loved him over and over. At one point, I felt tingling in his leg and when I was able to look back, I realized that he was no longer breathing. I was shocked. I knew my time with Louis was probably limited but I didn’t think I would lose him so soon. My biggest wish is that he heard my voice telling him how much he was loved.
I have so many people to thank for loving Louis. Thank you to Dr Russell, Dr D, Maira, Diana, Michelle, Melissa and Rachel and all the FF vet staff for taking care of him. Jennifer Rothman, my forever angel, for always fielding my frantic emails and getting him an appointment as well as the FF support coordinators, Bethany, Kendra and Jenna. Thank you Kelly, Andy, Alicia, Lexi, Bella, Christian, Holly and Angela who also took care of him and knew how special he was. Thank you to his monthly Fans and all of the volunteers who loved him.
I wish I could have known Louis for longer. I know he was probably such a playful and stubborn pup but I’m honored to have been able to take care of him and love him these last 8 months. I love you Louis and I hope you are running around pain free with all the other FF’s who were waiting for you. 💕"
Freeman
Acquired from: Los Angeles East Valley Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: November 14, 2022
Date of Passing: January 26, 2023
Family: Alannah Babauta & Graham Kaschak
Fans: Lori Aston, Wanda Freeman
Tribute: On January 26th, Alannah and Graham fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Freeman.
We noticed Freeman when networkers sent out a plea for help because he was "hospice." We should have gotten him sooner to love him longer... isn't that always the case? He possibly had a mass on his prostate which would be difficult to treat. We were out to prove them wrong or treat him aggressively and make him a miracle case. When we met Freeman, we decided there was no way this guy was dying- he was too perfect and full of life! Perhaps he just had prostatitis from not being neutered? We neutered him, he was prescribed medication to help possible infection or cancer, and hoped for the best.
Freeman lived in a foster home with Melissa and Keith Ritchason, he was a favorite on-site with volunteers, and he was chosen by a family last month who was ready for anything. Suddenly, Freeman could not eliminate feces or urine. His prostate cancer had blown up, affecting elimination, and we were left with few options other than euthanasia. It happened so fast and was terribly sad.
His new family shared,
“Although it was a short time together, Freeman came into mine and Alannah’s life and instantly snuggled right in as part of the family. We’ll miss all the cuddling, the tappy toes when he’d want to get the cats to play with him, the big eyes and ears that were always a sign that he was happy to see us, and the morning walks through the park. This dog was as close to perfect as perfect could be and he has been, and will continue to be, extremely missed by us. We thank you all at FFF for letting us take him away from you as we know how much you all loved him as well.”
Jason
Acquired from: Tulare Animal Services
Age upon Rescue: 7
Date of Rescue: Noveber 16, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Carol Pettograsso
Fans: Marti O’Hara
Sugar
Acquired from: Tulare Animal Services
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: November 16, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Melissa & Keith Ritchason
Fans: Doug Briggs, The Feretich Family
fig
Acquired from: City of Corona Animal Services
Age upon Rescue: 15
Date of Rescue: November 22, 2022
Date of Passing: November 7, 2023
Family: Marla Hernandez
Fans: Donor in memory of Coco and Sophia, Jordan Alvillar
Tribute: On November 7th, Marla fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Fig.
Marla shared,
"Dear FFF Family,
My Figgy Pudding, Figalicious, Figgy Piggy, Figgy Pie, FKA Job, passed away in my arms this morning at 4:20am after experiencing a severe seizure. The blessing being, he did not pass alone.
I heard an odd clanking noise, and went to investigate. That is when I found Fig seizing on the wood floor. He had managed to walk across the living room to my room. If he would have stayed in his room with carpeting, I probably wouldn't have heard him. I take solace in knowing I was there, cradling him and telling him how much I love him when he took his last breath.
Fig was a warrior in every sense of the word. What he went through with glaucoma, eye enucleation, numerous skin and ear infections, is beyond comprehension. But I had just written his Frostiversary update stating he was finally healthy and happy. I'm sad he won't be here to celebrate his 16th birthday and Frostiversary on November 22.
Figgy, we will miss you more than know, and we will still celebrate you. You were the most gentle soul I’ve ever met💙Thank you for letting me be your mommy. I love you so, so much🙏💚Zoe, Zeke, Penny and Mochi miss you and keep looking for you. Run free, my love🌈.
FFF, thank you for rescuing him when he was at risk of euthanasia, and all the vet care. I am eternally grateful to Fig's Fans: Donor - In memory of Coco and Sophia (Rakhesh and Ransika) and Jordan Alvillar. Fig certainly used his fair share of free Veterinary Care at FFF. Your love and support mean the world to me."
cher
Acquired from: Riverside Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: November 23, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Jen Burrell
Fans: Tembo & Laika
bosco
Acquired from: Riverside Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 7
Date of Rescue: November 23, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Gary & Susan Darnell
Fans: RZ
Mouse
Acquired from: Baldwin Park Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: November 26, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Flora Merryfield & Liz Zyzo
Fans: David & Amy in memory of Ozzie & Harriett, Angela Battle
Joy
Acquired from: Riverside Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: November 26, 2022
Date of Passing: December 16, 2022
Family: Frosted Faces Foundation
Fans:
Tribute: On November 26th, 14 year old Joy was scheduled for euthanasia at Riverside Shelter but we swooped in and exited her! Erica Duran and her kiddos had the honor of doing her freedom ride down to FFF.
We performed diagnostics upon intake that showed she was in stage 2 kidney failure, with some other age-related changes. When Andy and I had to fly home to the Midwest, we chose her to accompany us! She would surely be quiet on the plane, and need a little extra marketing being a "plain old" brown chihuahua.
Joy got to run through the airport in her jingle bells, see snow, meet all the grandmas and grandpas, and eat some egg bake! What we did not plan for was Joy becoming very very sick. She was puking her guts out so we took her to an ER where her kidney values had spiked to stage 4 and she now had a UTI (which was hopefully and likely causing this), her eyes were twitching up and down (tends to be indicative of a brain tumor), and she had pancreatitis. We hospitalized her on fluids and antibiotics for a week, and Joy unfortunately had to miss much her time with the family while on vacation. She was where she needed to be, and that was what was important.
We discharged her to fly her back to San Diego and re-hospitalized her under Dr. Russell's care for inappetence and failure to thrive, although her kidney values had "normalized" back to stage 2. Joy was having seizures and was relentlessly nauseous on "the big guns."
An abdominal ultrasound revealed that she had a very large mass on her left adrenal gland, a small one on her right, and a splenic mass. We treated symptoms, we treated new findings, but nothing would make Joy eat or feel better. We wanted to fix her and tried for another week, but she felt horrible and we could not help her- we had to let her go.
I want you to know we visited her every day in the hospital, held her, said her name, took her out for fresh air, and brought her foods. When little Joy felt better, she would come when we called her and had the best smile, even with her worried forehead wrinkles. We tried putting her under the covers, but she always hurriedly retreated to the end of the bed!
It makes me sad that she ended up at the shelter, but I do wonder if her family saw the same things we were seeing and wanted better for her. I wonder if the trip was too much, but then again, she couldn't have had more devoted care. Selfishly, I am glad we got to spend so much time with her and make her our own.
We love you, Joy. ❤
Hudson
Acquired from: San Bernardino County Animal Care & Control
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: November 26, 2022
Date of Passing: May 11, 2023
Family: Frosted Faces Foundation
Fans: Donor in honor of LB, Reynaldo’s Family
Tribute: On May 11th, we fulfilled our promise to Frosted Face Hudson.
We discovered Hudson at the Big Bear Shelter- the sweetest Frosted Face who had been lingering for weeks. Volunteers, David and Teresa tag teamed his freedom ride to FFF where we immediately got him treatment for his arthritis and acted on surgery for his mast cell tumors. Hudson never had much coordination in his back right leg, where it would dangle and knuckle causing infection and bloody blisters. We bought him a boot that would help him position it properly and be more functional.
Hudson took awhile to decompress, very stressed in his kennel and unsure of other dogs. He was a "hard sell" for a foster or forever family. I just want to say how proud I am that he did not slip through the cracks. Where finding our Frosted Faces is our goal, Hudson lived an incredible life at FFF, if not a better life than he could have in any other home.
Barbara Kurtz was his person. She showed up multiple times each week to spend dedicated time with Hudson. She hiked him on the Sunday FFF hikes, transporting him to and from, keeping his little foot dressing clean.
Hudson got picked to go on multiple Frosted Field Trips. His first, a week long vacation to Mammoth Mountain with Andy and me where he slept on the bed, cuddled by the fire, and we learned that he loved the snow! This was when we realized Hudson could become a lobby dog because he had let his guard down.
Upon return to FFF Hudson moved into the lobby. He knew exactly how to run into the trash cans just right to knock them down and eat the scraps. He liked the solitude of the bathroom, but also showed us he knew how to jump on the couch! He laid in funny positions that volunteers appreciated and memorialized with photos. Oh to be a senior dog and noticed as often as Hudson was- that's love.
Holly Buderus took Hudson on his first and only Frosted Fling away from FFF. He got to go to the beach and experience one on one companionship. Around this same time Hudson was diagnosed with colon cancer where we were trialing medications, and it was no small task to clean up his messes from his loose stool and frequent urination. So often we relay that senior dog adoption is preparing yourself to be a caregiver, and Holly is no stranger to the role.
Hudson got to go on a camping trip with Suzanne Wagner up in Julian where she met up with other FFF families. He got wagoned around the park, slept on pillows in the camper, and sat by the campfire. It was then it became evident that Hudson was getting tired. He was not eating as well, he was sleeping a lot, and going potty became difficult.
On May 11th, we laid him out gently on a day bed at FFF and surrounded him with FFF staff and his dedicated volunteers. With multiple hands on his body wishing to hold him close down on earth, his soul rose above us that day and we set him free.
cleo
Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: November 29, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Kate Trinity
Fans: Sam's Family
mona
Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: November 29, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Kara Manatt & Ryan Olson
Fans: Kathryn & Reggie
fig
Acquired from: Chula Vista Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: November 29, 2022
Date of Passing: March 25, 2024
Family: Savannah Noel
Fans: Brooke & Aleks June
Tribute: On March 25th, Savannah fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Fig after battling liver cancer.
She shared,
"Dear Frosted Faces Family,
I regret to announce that I had to say goodbye to Fig today, March 25th. He fought so hard for the last month, but his little body needed to rest. The morning was very ordinary. I gave him his medication at 6:30 a.m. like I do every day. Only 10 minutes later he was having a seizure and coughing up blood. I wrapped him in a blanket and rushed to the nearest emergency vet. The vet staff was able to make him comfortable, but there was nothing that could be done. His liver mass and heart disease had taken their toll. I was by his side comforting him as the vet staff helped him drift off into forever sleep 🌈
Saying goodbye is never easy. Even when you know you're on borrowed time. I feel like I've been grieving since learning about his diagnosis in February. I struggled internally, wondering if I was doing right by him. I hardly slept. I worried about him constantly. Oh, how I wish I could have taken his pain away. I told him many times, "please let me know when you're ready to go" and he did 💔
Thank you to Frosted Faces for pulling him out of the shelter and giving him the chance to thrive with a family. Thank you Dr. Russell, Dr. D, and all of the vet techs who helped care for my sweet boy. I am blessed that he was mine for 1 year, 2 months, and 10 days. He was the most perfect fit for me and my family. He was the best boy I could have asked for. I will miss the way he greeted me at the door every time I came home, his sweet little face, his joyful spirit, his curiosity, his affection, and his love for food that remained until the bitter end.
You're free now, my love ❤️"
Figgy
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: November 30, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Donna Dicarlo & Jim Long
Fans: Donor In memory of Blossom Loerky
Mimi
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: November 30, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Killian & Andrea Serrano
Fans: Karen Weidman Gregory
charlie
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: November 30, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Killian & Andrea Serrano
Fans: Holly & Rob Mitchell
Ernest
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: November 30, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: William Henninger & Elaine Eshbaugh
Fans: Wendy Davis
dwight
Acquired from: East Valley Shelter LA
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: December 7, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Chris Banno
Fans: Trisha Synder
Peter
Acquired from: East Valley Shelter LA
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: December 7, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Kelly & Greg Bartick
Fans: Debbie DeLaCruz
Woody
Acquired from: East Valley Shelter LA
Age upon Rescue: 20
Date of Rescue: December 7, 2022
Date of Passing: February 9, 2023
Family: Frosted Faces Foundation
Fans: The Santiagos, Carolina and Eric Ocasio, Donor in honor of my Atticus
Tribute: On February 9th, we fulfilled our promise to Frosted Face Woody.
When we rescued Woody and Gurly back in December, we would not have guessed both would have declined and been gone by now. Gurly was fragile, but Woody was a normal body weight, toodled around the yard, and even dragged his food bowl around the room by his teeth.
Gurly declined quickly from kidney failure in January and we lost her. In January, Woody's mouth started to smell terribly infected so we rushed him to surgery to not only find infected teeth, but necrotic tongue. We removed part of it and sent out for a biopsy that was inconclusive. Over the next few weeks, Woody had slimy skin infections that we cultured and treated accordingly which allowed his skin to dry up.
He kept losing weight and his hematocrit was dropping. He got weaker and weaker, but kept finishing every meal and seemed alert. We thought, with a sprinkle of irrational hope, that he went through a sick spell, and would soon start to improve and put on weight since he seemed to have the desire to live. Ultimately his lab values were not compatible with quality life and we had to assume suffering was happening or looming. We were advised we had put up a good fight and it was time to let go.
Was it the stress of the change of environment? The loss of Woody's 20 year great love, Gurly? Was this a lingering condition his family saw causing them to surrender?
I can whole heartedly say we gave both Woody and Gurly everything we've got from love to medical care. Woody got to be held most hours of the day or wrapped in a soft blanket. I joked he was our most potty trained dog because he peed and pooped as soon as he went out! He went on lots of outings with volunteers and nuzzled into your chest.
We love you, Woody.
Gurly
Acquired from: East Valley Shelter LA
Age upon Rescue: 21
Date of Rescue: December 7, 2022
Date of Passing: January 16, 2023
Family: Frosted Faces Foundation
Fans: The Santiagos, Miriam Cortez, Jennifer Y, Carolina and Eric Ocasio
Tribute: On January 16th, we fulfilled our promise to Frosted Face Gurly.
Gurly and Woody were surrendered to the shelter by their owner just last month who stated he was done with them. While Woody had typical senior dog ailments, Gurly had sky high kidney values from what we suspect was a terrible UTI turned kidney infection. She wasn't eating well and seemed tired. We hospitalized her on fluids and injectable antibiotics for two whole weeks, and by the grace of God and medicine, she seemingly recovered! She preferred kibble over wet food, eggs, FreshPet, boiled chicken- you name it! She could finish a bowl of kiblets!
Woody carried on and almost the moment his sister was well, his mouth exploded with infection. Half of his tongue became necrotic and he could not eat. Being that his diagnostics were pretty normal, we rushed him to surgery, removed the dead tissue from his tongue and sent it for biopsy, He also got a dental while he was under! The biopsy was not very exciting- so we treated for infection.
Gurly and Woody had two healthy blissful weeks together whether they lived "sling life," went to the beach, ate all the good things, and got carried everywhere! Gurly was loved by so many people who simply made the time for her! ❤️ Just two nights ago, Gurly was looking quiet, so we had the kiddos over for a movie night. Around 1am, I woke up to Woody nibbling on the cat food (yay for eating with half a tongue finally- guess?), but sadly, Gurly passed away in her sleep beside our bed.
Here's what I think. I think Woody and Gurly's owner saw them aging and declining already, which made the transition to a new place like FFF even more difficult. I can't believe the incredible timing where we had an opportunity to at least fight for both of them, but Gurly's little body was just all done. In the meantime, Woody is hanging out with the Smíšeks healing his heart and waiting on a forever home.
...The trouble is, you think you have time. Fly high, Gurly. We love you.
Sherry
Acquired from: East Valley Shelter LA
Age upon Rescue: 6
Date of Rescue: December 7, 2022
Date of Passing: November 16, 2023
Family: Elva Chavez
Fans: Renée Suzette
Tribute: On November 16th, Elva fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Sherry.
She shared,
"My sweet Sherry went over the rainbow 🌈 bridge last night. Sherry’s mass cell tumors came back and she had started chemo but one of her lymph node tumor’s ruptured yesterday morning.
She has always been such a brave little fighter. I took to VCA in Carlsbad and as they tried to sedate her to suture the opening, her breathing went declined and they stopped the procedure . I was hoping to get her back to Dr. Russell at FF on Monday but as she tried to recover in the oxygen chamber, it was clear the damage from the tumor was too much for her.
I spent a few hours with her and told what amazing sister she was to Wilma and how loved she was by me, her aunt and dog sitter, Diana Heise and her FF family 🥰. I asked Sherry to give Wilma and me a sign that she was now resting peacefully and running around with her rainbow buddies. Sherry LOVED when I made her scrambly eggs 🍳 each morning and this morning, out of no where, a squash flower bloomed bright yellow and scrambled egg looking 🥹☺️. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to be her mom and give her an amazing life! I thank Frosted Faces Foundation for the care received early on to address the one tumor she had and the extra time he gave Wilma and me to spend with her 💪🏽🙏🏽❤️. Thank you to Diana for the love you and Chris gave Sherry and thank you Danielle McWilliams for always taking Sherry and Wilma on hikes and sharing info about them with me when I decided to take them in ❤️. I’m grateful for an organization like FF for giving these special senior dogs a chance at a loving home. Hope your doing zoomies Sherry and eating all the scrambly eggs and treats you want 🥰😇🥲🌈💗.Wilma and I miss and love you very much."
Wilma
Acquired from: East Valley Shelter LA
Age upon Rescue: 6
Date of Rescue: December 7, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Elva Chavez
Fans: Rebecca Rees
Ringo
Acquired from: South LA Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: December 10, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Shelby Alkire
Fans: Kathryn and Tom Iannucci - In Loving Memory of Belle and Mo, Donor in honor of Burton G.
Baylor
Acquired from: SEAACA
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: December 11, 2022
Date of Passing: March 13, 2024
Family: Kathleen Gregart
Fans:
Tribute: On March 13th, Kathy fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Baylor after battling Cushing's.
She shared,
"My heart sank when I knew it was time for my sweet Baylor to leave. I was so blessed to have him for a little over one year and never expected to fall so much in love with this guy. We were two seniors who developed a routine and were happy just livin’ life together. In the beginning, our daily walks lasted over an hour and Baylor made friends with all the neighbors quickly. At the end, he could only make it to the mailbox and back, but he really loved those few minutes of sniffs and smells. He knew exactly when it was meal time and frequented the “treats” storage to let me know he thought he should have some. My heart is truly broken and I miss him beyond measure."
Thatcher
Acquired from: OC Animal Care
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: December 13, 2022
Date of Passing: January 2, 2024
Family: Annie Mitchell & Hoss Khollesi
Fans: Nancy Veach
Tribute: On January 2nd, Annie and Hoss fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Thatcher.
They shared,
"I knew at some point the day would come that my old boy’s body would just give out. I had hoped for more time….
On January 2nd, we had to say goodbye to our beloved Thatcher, or Old Man, as he was affectionately called. We had him just slightly over a year. He started to fail late on New Year’s Day and we took him to the vet the next day. They very generously squeezed us in after hours and assessed him. We decided his quality of life was declining rapidly, so we said our goodbyes and stroked his beautifully soft ears as he passed peacefully.
He was the dog I didn’t know I needed. When he came to us he didn’t know how to accept treats. It was a good 4 months before he gently took a toy out of the toy box and looked at me tentatively as if to ask, “Is it ok?” He became my shadow and I found him to be a wonderful companion and a fantastic confidant. He happily followed me around as I chatted away to him. I am already missing his calm and constant presence.
Fly free beautiful boy. I love you dearly and I’ll see you on the flip side. 💕"
Bing
Acquired from: OC Animal Care
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: December 13, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family:
Fans: Donor in loving memory of Finn Johnson
miss daisy
Acquired from: OC Animal Care
Age upon Rescue: 16
Date of Rescue: December 13, 2022
Date of Passing: January 29, 2024
Family: Pamela Tarango
Fans: HB Admin in honor of Bugsy
Tribute: On January 29th, Pam fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Miss Daisy.
She shared,
"Miss Daisy 🌸….the rest of the story. Looking back at last month’s post of Miss Daisy’s 1st Frostiversary is bittersweet….because she crossed the Rainbow 🌈 Bridge before the end of the year.😢 I’m not going into detail now as it won’t be beneficial to anyone and it will hurt my heart. Even now it’s hard to write this thru the blur of tears.
Thank you to all who cared about her. Miss Daisy 🌸 was a sweet little serendipity who brought light and joy to our home. I miss her! 💕🌸💕
Della
Acquired from: Bonita Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 11
Date of Rescue: December 13, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Carin Alexander
Fans: Christine, Jane Nguyen
lola
Acquired from: East Valley Shelter LA
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: December 13, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Lisa Kosidowski
Fans: Nancy Parker
Penelope
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society- El Cajon
Age upon Rescue: 15
Date of Rescue: December 13, 2022
Date of Passing: October 17, 2023
Family: Heidi Washkuhn & Keith Amdahl
Fans: Donor in memory of Bounce
Tribute: On October 17th, Heidi and Keith fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Petunia.
They shared,
"We lost our sweet Penny (Petunia) this past week. She was a frail little frowny face but she lived every day to the fullest and we knew she was so happy and loved life. She loved the sunshine and her brother Nacho and sister Lola. We are so very lucky to have had her as part of our family. She is so missed."
Zoe
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society- El Cajon
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: December 13, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Marla Hernandez
Fans: Leonora Carpio, Bella S., Renée Suzette
Tribute: On July 2nd, Marla fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Zoe.
She shared,
"I’m writing this now, through tears because I don’t know when the tears will stop. FFF family, I have to share Zoe crossed Rainbow Bridge today🌈💗My heart is shattered and even though I knew this day was coming soon, it still hurts like hell.
I met Zoe in March 2023 when I took her on an outing. She was so cute and feisty, but it wasn’t in the cards to adopt her then. When I saw that she still available and looking scary skinny, I took her on Fling in June 2023. 3 days into our fling, I found her cuddled up with my Fig (FF Job) and knew she was home. She loved Fig so much and it was really hard on her when he passed away in November. Since then, Zoe had been declining, as she had CCD.
Only in the past few weeks has Zoe let me hold her, and comfort her. For this, I am so grateful. Even when she was struggling, she never lost her cute smile. When the vet arrived today, she woke up from her slumber and gave me the biggest smile. It was like she was telling me she was ready. Zoe passed peacefully in my arms in the porch swing where we have spent many hours rocking🙏💜
I love you, sweet girl💗Go give Fig a big kiss from me🫶🫶Love you forever 💘
Thank you, FFF for saving her🙌🙏"
Family: Marla Hernandez
Fans: Leonora Carpio, Bella S., Renée Suzette
Facts: Zoe was 14 years old and was rescued from San Diego Humane Society – El Cajon on December 13, 2022
millie
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: December 13, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Piper Rose
Fans: Kim Rios, in memory of Robert Rios
Trinity
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: December 13, 2022
Date of Passing: December 8, 2023
Family: Jennifer & Chris Butner
Fans: Donor in memory of Bounce
Tribute: On December 8th, Jennifer and Chris fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Trinity.
Jennifer shared,
"This past Friday we tragically lost our beloved Trinity way too soon. She was compassionately helped across the rainbow bridge by Dr. Russell and Michelle.
Trinity was everything. Her spunk and tenacity made it impossible not to fall in love with her immediately. Trinity was incredibly goofy and could often be found attempting to lick all the dishes in the dishwasher. She made friends and had fans everywhere she went. She was so freaking special and we’re heartbroken we didn’t have more time to treat her like the absolute queen she was. Hopefully the 7 months we had with Trinity were the best of her life, and made up for any rough spots she had along the way before she joined our family.
When our hearts heal a bit, we can’t wait to welcome another frosted face into our family. But as tiny as she was, the void she left feels insurmountable. I’d like to think Trinity is running with all four legs and barking her little heart out. We will miss you forever, Miss Trinny."
Cane
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: December 13, 2022
Date of Passing: December 30, 2022
Family: Lynda Donato
Fans: RZ
Tribute: On December 30th, Lynda fulfilled her promised to Frosted Face Cane.
Cane was a stray to San Diego Humane Society and not claimed. We got him groomed nicely and Lynda offered to take him on a Frosted Fling. Something just wasn't right and the record reads that he had severe mucositis and a mass effect on his gums. He was not eating, becoming hypothermic, and was not even well enough to undergo an emergency dental. We hospitalized him all week to give him treatment in hopes he would rally, but his tiny body was all done.
Lynda shared,
"Cane came to me as a little frail sleepy looking guy but he had spirit. The minute he got to our home he opened his eyes and followed me everywhere, even up and down the steps. He had a little fun in the short time he lived here. He was the life of a little Xmas party, scampering all around, standing up on his back legs begging for Mac and cheese, went on rides in the car and charmed the cashiers at the hardware store and even camped out one night in our travel trailer.
His determination inspired me and his spark tricked me into thinking he could be part of our little family for quite a while. It wasn’t meant to be. How do your measure sadness for a life that hadn’t even begun to unfold. There were so many experiences that he never got to share with us. We will take you with us in our hearts little guy. I am so grateful I got to know you and hold you. You were my little peanut 💔"
Buddy
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 8
Date of Rescue: December 13, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Debbie Sherrell
Fans: Kathy Walsh
Max
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 13
Date of Rescue: December 14, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Cynthia Hannigan
Fans: Siobhan Sullivan
Joël
Acquired from: Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: December 15, 2022
Date of Passing: January 11, 2024
Family: Jolynne Flores
Fans: RZ
Tribute: On January 11th, Jolynne fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Joel.
She shared,
"To My Precious Joël –
My angel. My hound baby. My farm dog. My Sentry Guard.
My heart hurts. I miss you so much. I feel your love and remember how incredibly special you were—you are. I love talking about you. I adopted you within a week of Frosted Faces springing you from Pasadena and in the days before Christmas. My friend Jo-Jo helped me that day. The Christmas season became part of your angelic name. Jo-Jo + Noël = Joël. I loved looking in your big beautiful brown eyes and saying your name, Joël.
I wanted to learn what would make you happy, what was your soul’s purpose, because that’s what I would try to provide for you every day. I learned you were part-hound quickly. That you were born to be a Sentry Guard took me a year and still leaves me in awe of you.
I figured you for a pittie mix from that big beautiful head of yours and big neck (Is this collar going to fit?). But what you displayed more than anything and what made me laugh nearly every day was your stubbornness. You absolutely had hound in you. Your tri-color should have given it away. When you did not want to do something, you put the brakes on. “Joël, we need to get you in the car to go to Dr Russell.” Or you went limp like a rag doll. “Joël, you need to go pee before bed.” You would eventually relinquish, but not before you had me laughing. You rarely made any
noise, but you communicated so clearly. Your stubbornness still makes me laugh.
You were also quite clear that you did not care for snuggles. Yes, us humans love to snuggle, but I sure am grateful for the zillions of kisses you let me give you.
You carried a lot of arthritic pain (Your acupuncture and cold laser treatments helped you.), but you absolutely lit up when I grabbed your harness. You somehow managed to go paws-up and grab the lead to take me for a walk. Sometimes we only made it to the front yard before you parked it. “We’re done.” I tugged at the lead, “Joël, you need to exercise your joints. Let’s walk.” “Nope. Ain’t happenin’.” So, I too, parked it and we took in the world from there. We also walked in many parks for new adventures. You would walk a bit, then turn back towards the car. That was my stubborn hound baby—but I later learned it was something more.
You *absolutely* loved being outside. (Which explained your excitement for a “walk.”) Your holistic vet wondered, “Does she seek cool? Heat?” “Well, both.” I remember you chillin’ in the grass on a scorching July day, on a freezing January night, and in the pouring rain we had last winter. But your favorite times outside were on cool spring and fall nights. Sometimes I think you asked to go out for a 2:00 AM pee just so you could chill outside. It broke my heart to have to bring you in before you were ready.
("Joël, we need to go back inside.") Your favorite time was when I worked in the yard. You were my farm dog, but I later learned it was something more.
Your must-have for so many of your happy moments was your softie baby. You always wanted her with you. You carried her outside with you to pee. (“Wait mom. I need my baby.”) You slept with her. You adjusted her as needed in bed. She brought you so much comfort.
What perplexed me was how you always stayed near your bed in the family room, or in the center of the front or back yards. You were so happy when I’d come home from a trip. You came to greet me, gave me kisses, but soon went back to your family room bed. If I was watching a movie, you’d come see what I was up to, that I was okay, then you’d go back. When I was cooking your dinner, sometimes you would hang out in the kitchen for a few minutes, but you’d go back. I often wondered, “Why are you going back? You are welcome to be anywhere you want in the house. Maybe before were you required to stay near your bed. Maybe your bed is
super comfy.” But none of that really made sense.
After one year I finally saw what you saw. From your vantage point you could see the front door, the garage door, and the sliding glass door—all entry points to the house. From the middle of the front yard, you could watch the front door and side gates. From the middle of the back yard you could watch the sliding glass door and side gates. You’re a Sentry Guard. You guard the gate. In the rare times you made a sound, you alerted me to potential foes came through the “gate” (“Bark bark bark. Beware you.”), but stood down when I told you they were okay. You were perfect at your job.
That’s my Joël. You were always taking care of us. I feel you still are. Your baby is now on my bed as a reminder. You will forever be a Frosted Face and I am eternally grateful that they chose you, my beloved angel, Joël."
Jester
Acquired from: San Diego Humane Society
Age upon Rescue: 10
Date of Rescue: December 16, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Cherissa & James Beck
Fans: Nishant Bhajaria
Ramona
Acquired from: Baldwin Park Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: December 17, 2022
Date of Passing: March 17, 2023
Family: Rebecca Forman
Fans: E. Short
Tribute: On March 17th, Rebecca fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Reba.
She shared,
"Never ever would I have imagined that we'd be fulfilling our promise this soon. It's because of this, the unexpectedness, that the grief feels overwhelming, rising almost suffocatingly, anytime I pause and replay the events from our first seamless meeting until our agonizing goodbye. I hope you heard us whispering how good you were as I traced your features and Ezekiel held your paw.
Ramona had the saddest of eyes and was, without a doubt, the most gentle and easiest of all of our seniors. Do you ever wonder what you'd do differently if you only knew you had such a limited amount of time?
Ramona's back end was weak from day one, but really, I was so sure we'd be celebrating her Frostiversaries in the future. The last few days were filled with desperate attempts to give her sustenance, and she tried to make me happy, opening her mouth to grab whatever delicacy I offered, before dropping it. Oh, how it made my heart sink each time. Ramona's decline was swift, and once the large mass was confirmed, in her weakened state, the kindest thing to do was to let her go.
Of one thing I am certain. For 87 days we loved our sweet girl with everything we had. She did not like to be on couches or beds, so most of the time she got her cuddles with us awkwardly laying on the floor or near one of her favorite beds. Ramona loved to be warm, wrapped up in our coziest, velvet blankets. Her favorite pastimes included leisurely strolls, if only around the cul de sac, even on her last day.
Until Ramona, I never had a partner, human or canine, eager to wake up with me at 4:00 am on work days. What a way to start the day! Ramona was loyal to a fault. She followed me from room to room and there were days I went out of my way to limit my movement so as not to disturb her. She kept my son, Ezekiel, company during viola practice, his most difficult writing assignments, and even checked in on him to make sure bathroom experiences were smooth.
Up until her last week and a half, she trotted, helicopter tail and all, to breakfast, lunch and dinner. Most of all, Ramona cherished face rubs and snout caresses. It was our honor, baby girl, and we won't ever forget you.
We are grateful to Kris Ansel, the Support Team and Adopter Group of Frosted Faces, Dr. Anast of Sandy Hill Animal Clinic, Lap of Love, and Poppy from Animal Help Alliance."
Olive
Acquired from: Baldwin Park Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: December 17, 2022
Date of Passing: June 17, 2023
Family: Carol Lockwood & Janessa Goldbeck
Fans: Donor in Memory of Theo Olson, HB Admin in honor of Bugsy
Tribute: On June 17th, Carol and Janessa fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Olive.
They shared,
"'Let's just go to FFF and look for a small dog...if one stands out, we will adopt them.' This discussion took place 6 months after we had to say goodbye to Frosted Face Bubba (formerly Riddle). Well, turns out we are not small dog people. I think we knew that. None of the small dogs struck our fancy, but as we left FFF we spotted an English Bulldog lump of love in the lobby.
Fast forward a few days to Olive coming home with us! 75 pounds of PURE LOVE. Nicknamed our "house hippo", Olive managed to steal our hearts instantly. Despite being significantly vision impaired, she managed to learn the house layout, routine, and comfy spaces to nap quite effortlessly. She wiggled with excitement - especially for food. She would often go into the garage and climb into her stroller, letting us know she was ready to be pushed through the neighborhood. After dinner she would hoist herself up onto the den couch and wait patiently for us to join her for cuddles and to watch a show. She loved predictability and routine and we were happy to provide that for her.
We were at the vet for a routine procedure when x-rays revealed very advanced lung cancer. We were devastated. We were informed that we needed to make her comfortable for the time she had left - realistically 6-12 weeks. She immediately began to show the typical signs of lung cancer and we did what we could for her. She never complained or dramaticized what she was going through. She was always so appreciative and fought for as long as she could. I often found myself wondering why anyone would have surrendered such a wonderful and loving animal. She was just SO GOOD.
We are still adjusting to her passing and the emptiness it has left in our household. While we only had her for 5 months, we will forever be grateful for the impact she had on us and can only hope that we had an equally positive impact on her. We love you, Olive."
Cici
Acquired from: Baldwin Park Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 9
Date of Rescue: December 17, 2022
Date of Passing:
Family: Carolyn Arntsen & Matt Johnson
Fans: Brooke Snow
blacky
Acquired from: Baldwin Park Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 12
Date of Rescue: December 17, 2022
Date of Passing: June 16, 2023
Family: Alissa Armstrong & Michael Marquis
Fans: Marilyn Golisch
Tribute: Tonight we have two very special stories to tell about lifesaving fosters.
Who knew they would have so much in common? Two pittie boys were surrendered to Baldwin Park Shelter months apart by different guardians. Both battled prostate cancer, and their love stories were written by fosters who had no idea they would ultimately be their final families.
This is Blacky's story.
On June 16th, Alissa fulfilled her promise to Frosted Face Blacky.
Alissa shared,
"Blacky was truly loved. Our family was only able to be his foster family for a short time before his battle with prostate cancer eventually made his quality of life unbearable. I know he was a favorite and I wish I could have known his amazing personality before he started feeling sick and I began fostering him 1 month ago. I was able to see flashes of it when he would put his paw on my foot when laying down for a break on our short walks.
He was obviously very attached to anyone he considered his person because he would bark if I left the living room, where he lounged, for too long, but ceased once I came back. He also “Goldie Locks-Ed” every bed in the house and after going through the two couches, the ottoman, the Big Joe bean bag chair, and the dog beds, he finally settled for the twin mattress we have on the floor for our son in our room to sleep on at night. He was so stealthy, I had to put a bell on his collar to hear him get up when he needed to go potty.
He was truly king of the castle with the harem to match. It was heartening to hear how he touched so many people and that so many loved him. Camping, hiking, just snuggling in general, he was many people’s favorite and many were touched by his existence. When wishing him goodbye, he had the largest outpouring of love I’ve ever seen from the frosted faces staff and all who knew him. It was an honor to do what his previous owners couldn’t do for him and provide him a comfortable, caring, understanding and loving living situation before he could finally rest."
Klyde
Acquired from: Moreno Valley Shelter
Age upon Rescue: 14
Date of Rescue: December 17, 2022
Date of Passing: August 9, 2024
Family: Danielle & Daniel Murillo
Fans: HB Admin in honor of Bugsy
Tribute: On August 9th, Danielle and Daniel fulfilled their promise to Frosted Face Klyde.
They shared,
Klyde had been declining the past few weeks and usually he would perk back up but he started not being about to walk anymore so we took him into FFF to get checked out. We got the bad news. We were heartbroken to hear that our big guy wasn't going to make it.
On his last day we took him to the beach in the wagon to have one last adventure. He loved the beach so much and even though he wasn't able to fully enjoy it, we knew he was so happy to be there with us and his brother Tony. We said goodbye to him that night at home with all his favorite people beside him.
We loved him so much. He was definitely my husband's sidekick and he shared this. Klyde was my little amigo and he always wanted to be by my side. He didn't wag his tail, bark or show much emotions but I knew he loved me and I loved him. He loved going on our walks and car rides, even when his arthritis would act up but he went strong till the end.
With Klyde being 15 and half, his last part of his life with FFF, The May family and us had to be the best part of his life. He meant so much to us and I know his spirit will always live on with me. His little brother Tony misses him but he will always remember his big brother. To all the adventures we went on... I love you little amigo."