In Memory of Colonel

My vet helped Colonel cross over the rainbow bridge this morning. He had stopped eating/drinking and his body was shutting down. He hadn't had any interest in any of his favorite treats or activities for over a week and we both agreed it was time. I held him throughout the process this morning and sent him on his way knowing he was loved. I'm a mess right now, but even so I would take him in again with absolutely no regrets, it was so worth it. We'll always remember him as a sweet old boy who brought us laughter and love.

In Memory of Montana

To Montana
My protector, jester, soul sister and buddha for nearly 13years. Your mild epilepsy didn't stop you from enjoying every day.
Even as you passed you were beautiful and loving. Rest now, and know that I am forever changed - grateful for having known and loved you.

Raelene

TALLULAH LOUISE (LOOLIE) 2001-2011

Louise left us today after a valiant battle with lymphoma. She was diagnosed in early June and by God, the old girl barreled along far longer than anyone expected. Loolie was born in a puppy mill in the Ukraine, shipped as a tiny puppy to the U.S. and was passed around for 6 years before being surrendered to the French Bulldog Rescue Network. We are forever grateful to FBRN for taking her in and especially to Kate Ghiselin for fostering her and choosing us to be her family. She and Carol Fertig were Loolie's champions.
Louise was a scrappy little thing, skinny and lithe and a little bit ferocious. She never did catch that squirrel. We will miss watching her chase her ball on the beach and the feel of her round little skull under our palms. She loved us like crazy and we felt so honored. Before she went to sleep this afternoon she enjoyed 2 hamburgers and a graham cracker. Her beautiful coat was soft and warm under our hands. She was content.
Thank you to Dr. Kristin Sulis and the staff at Mt. Tabor Veterinary for their kindness, help, and understanding throughout Loolie's illness. To Dr. Jordan Nuccio, who cared expertly for Loolie (and for us) from the day Loolie arrived until the day she died, we extend our endless gratitude and love. 
oh, these rotten dogs will be the end of us, will they not?

Charlotte & Kevin

In Memory of Jazzy

On October 28, 2011 we said Good Bye to our sweet sweet Jazzy. This picture was taken just a month before. It shows her goofy little smile and quirky little personality.

Jazzy was surrendered to FBRN in early 2009. She made three stops before finding her way to me in April 2009. She was a joyful little foster girl, but due to personal circumstances she soon made a transition to MN in November 2009. However, Jazzy had different plans. She tried very hard not to fit in with her foster family and found her way back to me in December of 2009. Just in time for Christmas.

It seems that out of her 5 foster homes, this is where she wanted to be.

Jazzy continued to struggle with her allergies, but was beautiful to us and was definitely part of the pack! She needed go nowhere else. In December 2010 I found myself in a bidding war over a puppy stocking so that Jazzy could match the rest of the four legged kids in the house. We realized then that this little girl needed to stay. We started making arrangements and planning how to make her official. She officially became part of the family in February 2011. We welcomed her with open arms and couldn't be more pleased with out little treasure. We were one big happy family.

She left us much too soon today as Jason and I held her and told her just how much we loved her. Her body and spirit are whole and we will one day she our precious little angle again!

We can not express the sadness and hole she has left in our hearts....

In Memory of Bullwinkle

(Bullwrinkles, Buddy Boo, Bully Bear, Bullymonster, Mr. Bull, Bully, B’winks, Little Bubba, Bullyman, Sir) 
We remember when Bullwinkle arrived at our house, he and his foster dad had never been to Sacramento so he planned a weekend trip here and dropped Bullwinkle off on his way. When they pulled up out front, we opened the door, Bullwinkle jumped out of the car, ran into the house, jumped over the couches a couple of times, sniffed the entire downstairs and then just sat on the couch and looked at us as if to say “I’m Home”. His foster dad checked in on him on his way home to make sure he found his forever home. And he finally found his forever home, where he was loved and will be remembered forever.
When he moved in, we worked with him to share his toys which alleviated any aggression he had towards children. He learned to shake, high-five, double-high-5, low-crawl (military term for crawling on your belly), sit, stay, and laydown. Bullwinkle was one of the smartest dogs I have ever known. He was happy go lucky, a showoff, a teddy bear, and a real ladies man. He loved red-heads and I still can’t figure that one out, he took that secret to doggie heaven. He sat on anyone’s lap who invited him. He was very proper, gave them the Frenchie look and waited for the invite him onto their lap.
My brother-in-law stated that when he first met Bullwinkle, he thought we were crazy to have adopted him. 6 months later, he stated Bullwinkle was a great dog and couldn’t believe how much he changed. We told him all dogs need is to know who’s in charge, lots of love, good nutrition, exercise, toys to entertain them, good medical care and we made sure he had everything he needed. 
Bully was the center of attention in his new home and acquired many nicknames from the human friendships he made. He loved to go for rides, chase rabbits from the front seat of the truck in the evening hours, chase squirrels and balls at the park, go for walks, run on the beach and chase birds, show off all of his toys in his toy bin when we got home from work or an outdoor trip. He would pull them out one at a time and then dump the bin over to get his favorite toy out. When it came to balls he had OCD. Tennis balls destroyed in 60 seconds or less, Yoga balls chased around the downstairs like a bowl in a china shop without the breakables. If he didn’t get overheated, he could have chased them for hours. Our home looked more like a two-year old child lived in it most of the time.
Such a personality and the mention of a car ride and Bullwinkle was ready to go. He had such energy and was right there to greet us when we got home. Then it was time to pull out every toy and play tug o war with poppa.
One aggressive behavior towards people was not fixable. He did not like the vet or vet tech touching his hiney. No poking, temperature taking or glands expressed without at least two people holding him while the third worked on his hiney. I don’t think anyone likes their hiney touched and Bully made sure they knew it.
Bullwinkle had a terrible secret hiding in his chest. He had an inoperable tumor on top of his heart and his heart was failing. After several emergency visits and a cardiac specialist, we had to let Bully go, it wouldn’t be fair to keep him here even though we desperately wanted to. We let him go on November 9th, 2011. Bullwinkle was a wonderful companion, showoff, ladies man, he stole everyone’s heart who got know him. He was our best friend, a wonderful companion and part of the family. We miss him everyday and especially in the evenings, we love the cuddling on the couch, evening walk, and his snorts, snoring and the little guy sleeping in our bed. Adopting him was one of the best things we have done and although he was only with us for a year and a half he will always be with us wherever we go. We are sad that he has gone to a better place but we both know he will be in our hearts forever
His last few days he had a beach trip and got to chase the seagulls to show them he was still boss of the beach. I wish my little buddy boo the best and will miss him everyday.

Love Momma and Poppa

In Memory of Dozer

I finally did this, worst thing I've ever had to type. Thank you again so very much for Dozer, although it's tough to deal with, I really can't imagine life without having him in it, even if it wasn't for as long as we all hoped, thank you so much.
My buddy Doze
I grew up on a real junkyard in Montana, we always had rotweillers, german shepherds etc. to keep the place & us safe. Ten years ago I never would have thought I would fall in love with a dog that weighed less than a hundred pounds, especially a frenchie!!! The first encounter I had with one came when I was walking down the street & this little guy started barking at me, I laughed so hard & then introduced myself to him & he seemed to warm up to me right away. After that first encounter I found the FBRN website & became a daily visitor, when Dozer first came up & I saw him in Arizona, I was quick to fill out the application. I remember the call back like it was yesterday, I so very excited but tried not to get my hopes up too much, then when I got the call that I qualified for a home visit I was like a kid around Christmas waiting to meet this little dude. When the night came & Doze's foster mom cam walking up with him in his little camouflaged harness, I knew this guy & me were meant to be & am so thankful that his foster mom felt the same way. Upon finding out that I was selected as Doze's forever home, I was beside myself, everyone in my life was so excited for me, I was off to Pet Smart to pick up some toys & accessories to make sure he felt welcome from day 1.
The past year I spent with Dozer has been an unbelievable one, thanks in most part to him entering my life. A few of my friends & I opened a new business this year, so a lot of my time has been devoted to work, I stopped going out pretty much at all, in favor of coming home to hang out with my buddy Doze. Each morning we'd get up & go for a walk, with Doze getting to know most of the regulars on our daily route. The ladies at Starbucks were always sure to give me treats for him, even if he wasn't with. Doze also enjoyed spending a lot of time with his buddy Nesta (an Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog).

Dozer passed away in my lap on the way to the animal clinic after suffering a brain aneurism due to his valley fever. He remains a very large part of my heart & not a day has passed that I haven't thought of my little buddy & I'm not too sure if there will ever be a day that I don't think of Dozey Bear. He brought so much love to my life it's unreal & all he ever asked for was a cup of food in the morning, a cup in the evening, some rubber chickens to destroy, a set of nylabone keys to chew on & my lap...of course the occasional treat mixed in there! I had a lot of support from family, friends, co-workers & clients after his passing & that's because they all know how special of a dog Dozer was. He went through a lot before he came to FBRN & definitely fought hard until the tearful end. I am grateful to have known Dozer & so grateful that he passed in my arms, rather than by himself. The only fault I can think of was his love of the garbage, if I left it out, he'd get after it right away! Boy, what I wouldn't give to come home to a house with garbage spread from one end to the other! He was a special dude & can never be replaced. I love you Doze.

In Memory of Biscuit

I picked up Biscuit in Texas in July, 2010 and she had her first ride on an airplane home to Seattle. She became a wonderful companion to me, a retired grandma, following me everywhere, sitting on the couch with me and most nights sleeping in the bed she “shared” with me. Who can resist a Frenchie with her feet on the bedframe making little noises as if to say, “what about me, where am I supposed to sleep?” She loved going anywhere in the car and wasn’t always ready to get out when we got home. So she just stayed in the car until she was good and ready to come in. I think she was afraid I would go somewhere without her. She went everywhere with me that it was reasonable to take her. If she didn’t go with me, I could always count on her little bat ears appearing as soon as I came in the door. She would be on the couch and there she would stay once she saw me. No exciting greeting from this laid back little frog. She took me on walks around the neighborhood, deciding just where we would go. She enjoyed the river walk nearby but at her pace, not mine. I live in the downstairs of my house so when I occasionally had to go upstairs I propped the door open so she could follow me. When I came back down she would go as far as the landing and stop, unsure if I was coming up again and she wasn’t about to miss anything. Biscuit got sick in September and passed away peacefully and without pain on September 22, 2011. I had only had her for a year and two months. It wasn’t nearly long enough. The incredible joy she gave me is second only to the incredible pain of losing her. Not much was known about her background, age, etc. as she was given via Craig’s List and surrendered at a Wal-Mart. I know she had babies, but not how many litters. Devastated as I am without her, I don’t regret having had the chance to give her what may have been the best year of her life. I definitely will have another Frenchie and take the chance that I will have to grieve again. I would not go any other route than a rescue as these boys and girls deserve better than what they have had. But it will be awhile before I am ready. Rest in peace my darling Biscuit and I’ll see you at Rainbow Bridge.

Raisin Talley
“Big Stripey Pig”
7 June 2002 – 6 February 2011

Raisin came to live with me in May of 2005. She was an ex-breeder and her original name was “Sheena” but since I had “Oatmeal” (her ½ sister) and later got “Cookie “(her niece) I thought the name was applicable (Oatmeal Raisin Cookie). She was shy at first but quickly acclimated to her new surroundings and her new sisters. It only took her a few times to learn how to dance and sing. Whenever she wanted a B.O.N.E. she would spin around furiously. If I didn’t cooperate quickly enough the singing began. Her favorite things to do were eat B.O.N.E.S, sniff every square millimeter outside, and snuggle with me. She actually spooned with me every night. She put her head on my shoulder and her arm around me. If I turned over she would quickly jump over me and get back into position. Lack of snuggling was not an option. One of her many nicknames was “Snugglepig”. She was also called “Big Stripeypig” due to her beautiful brindle coat. Upon seeing her one little girl called her a tiger and another called her a poodle. Everyone loved her. Raisin never met a stranger and never barked in anger. She shared her toys, food, and blankets with everyone. 
Raisin had a seizure at the end of December 2010. Initially we thought she would be ok but the seizures returned at the end of January 2011. An MRI revealed the cancer. We tried everything we could but before she could get to the oncologist she had a bout of seizures from which she did not recover. February 6, 2011 was the worst day of my life. 
When Raisin’s breeder found out that she died she offered to give me her Granddaughter. Initially we were reticent to bring a new “pig” into the family but I thought it would be a good idea for my other “pigs”. As it turns out she is just as affectionate as her Grandmother. I think the Big Stripey Raisinpig would have really liked her Granddaughter. We named her Pumpkin and she has even learned to dance. Raisin did a good job. 
It has taken me exactly 9 months to write this. I will miss my big Stripeypig every day for the rest of my life. 
Pig Dad, Mushroom, Oatmeal, Cookie, and Roxie

In memory of Spartacus

I buried Spartacus Saturday morning at 8:00 by the three birch trees he loved so much.

I laid him in his day bed and buried him with his yellow dog bone and water bowl

And said:

I am shattered.

You were more than anyone had any right to expect.

You made me smile and laugh.

I loved everything about you.

I loved your patented Spartacus happy dance when I came home.

I loved the way you broke loose from your pen when 10 weeks old and I woke to see you sitting by my bed looking up at me in that cute way that you do.

I loved your grunts and snorts.

I loved the way you patiently sat next to me when I was on the john.

I loved the way you always wanted to take a nap with me.
Demanded belly rubs.

Sat on strangers laps.

Lay across my lap when watching TV.

I will miss you waiting for me when I return from bike rides.

Licking my fingers when I stick them through the locked kitchen door when I come home.

I loved the way you laid on your back with your legs in the air and wiggled your body.

The way you stole items from employees at the office.

The way you ran around and under all the living furniture.

It was so important to me that you were happy.

Please tell me that you were.

I miss you terribly.

There will never be another Spartacus.
Farewell my buddy, my little man, my dog, MY SPARTACUS.

Beau Your Alpha

In memory of Petite

In memory of Gena Austin

Gena Austin was a devoted and selfless animal rescuer and advocate. FBRN--and the world--is poorer for her passing. Please read the loving memorial at this link and consider becoming a volunteer for FBRN or another rescue organization. There will never be another Gena, but we can all work to improve the lives of animals and help pick up where she had to leave off--far too soon. 
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/con...zjpxc.facebook

In Memory of Cecil

My best buddy Cecil passed away July 6, 2011. He had been dealing with a stomach problem that at first seemed remediable but then escalated quickly. After a full day of extensive testing and another day of surgery his little heart gave out. Cecil brought me more joy than I ever even imagined possible. There aren't really words for the sadness I now feel, nor can I possibly express how grateful I am for having him in my life. His mysterious life was filled with hardships including a bad case of mange (which he kicked) and numerous other skin infections, a compromised immune system, and he had lived in many different homes, I'm sure even more than I know about. But he bore it all with dignity, nothing ever got Cecil down and I really admired him for that. Even the night before his surgery, with a catheter in his leg and a cone on his head I couldn't keep him from diligently following me back and forth around the apartment – not spatially aware he kept bumping into my calves because he was used to following right at my feet and just couldn't get used to the few inches that the cone put between us. He didn't even consider sitting on the couch and sulking.

Cecil had a huge heart and was generous with his affection. He never let a lap go empty for long. He was always excited to meet new people and there was rarely an open door (be it house, building, or even car door) that he didn't try to enter. This trait often won him friends. Cecil was a people dog, he did not like other dogs or really any other pets for that matter, but he loved people and was a real charmer. Everyone on the block knew him and were all touched by his charms. Folks often remarked that he had a wise face, especially due to his grey muzzle and natural sense of curiosity. One neighbor used to joke that he expected Cecil to one day open up his mouth and talk. "I know he's got something to say." The whole block mourned with me when he passed.

His triumphant spirit truly inspired me and I will miss him very much. Cece – you taught me so much, wherever you are I hope you are the ONLY dog and that you have infinite couches and laps to lounge on. Just know that I will always love you.

In Memory of La Rue

Ode to La Rue, 
Rue Dog Filkins 

La Rue, we are so blue without you 
La Rue, love you to the moon we do 
La Rue, you know soul mates we are forever, so true 
Keep watch for us La Rue, time will pass and we'll see each other again, soon. 

Fly high Rue! 

Love, 
Mama and Daddy 

Little Rue Man passed away bravely and peacefully with his family at hand, including his Grandparents, the Ashcraft's. A dog so loved, Rue will be a part of us forever. 
August 20 at 12:00pm

In Memory of Spike

When I filled out an application on the FBRN site in February of 2006 to adopt a 1.5 year old puppy mill-bred French Bulldog named Spike, I didn’t realize that I was changing my life. 
We made the five-hour drive to pick my soon-to-be best friend up and from the moment he me us, he was ready to be our sidekick on any excursion we planned.
Spike was a clown, he was always making us smile or laugh. When we’d arrive home from work, he was always either waking up from a nap and woofing to let “the intruders” know he was on the guard, or he’d have heard our cars and knew it was us and would await us at the door with the first of many toys he wanted to play with.
Spike was the master of Frenchie Tug of War and soon learned the subtle arts of wrestling with his “dad”. We’d spend literal hours on the floor chasing each other, trying to steal toys from each other, and other games that just would erase the stresses of my day and light up his life.
Spike charmed his way into his “mom’s” heart too. She was a cat person all the way and was not especially ready initially to be a dog parent. Somewhere in the first couple of years, Spike stole her heart too. Rainy days, the two were inseparable cuddling on the couch, or when the weather improved, heading out for long drives to different places for Spike to explore.
Spike touched the lives of the developmentally disabled adults his parents work with in their professional lives. Many of the group home residents and clients would want daily reports of what Spike had been up to. On special occasions, he’d make a surprise appearance to say hello and shower his friends there with kisses.
Spike loved football season, because it meant day-long cuddles on the couch under a blanket, something he discovered he loved and would communicate by pawing at the blanket to say “tuck me in”!
On July 24th, Spike left us for the Rainbow Bridge. Early that morning, he went into a seizure and never came out of it. All of our efforts to keep him alive and rushing him to an emergency vet were in vain. We honestly are left to deal with far more questions than answers as to why he passed on.
We were lucky to have him in our lives for 5 years, but it seems so unfair that in an instant, he was gone. It is impossible to sum up how in five years this little Russian puppy mill-bred dog would grow up to be the light in my smile. He was not my first dog in my life, as my family had dogs all through the years, but he was the first dog that was my dog. I still look to my front windows instinctively when I get home, hoping to see the silhouettes of his ears. When the doorbell rings, it is still strange not to hear his bark. When I sleep, the bed feels so much emptier without him sleeping near my feet.
I feel blessed to have stumbled over FBRN and to have looked through the “available dogs” and to have fallen in love with the puppy named Spike. Thank you for trusting us with him and allowing him to be a part of our lives. He was loved as much as any dog could be loved and returned that love as much as any dog could. …and to my little frenchie romping in the fields awaiting a chance to wrestle again with his dad, be patient my friend our day will come.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8zOsmf8FxwA
This is the link to a tribute I made of Spike a few days after losing him. Hopefully more people will be touched by my best friend.

In Memory of Nelly

On June 19th, 2011 our beloved Nelly was carried to the heavens, with her guardian angels 'in-paw'. After a short yet uncontrollable battle with epilepsy; suspected to be derived from a brain tumor, she finally was able to rest in peace...just three short days after her 'Mama' and 'Papa's wedding. Nelly was full of love, life, and lots of energy! She lived each and everyday of her four short years on this earth, as if each were her last. Just minutes after crossing over the rainbow bridge, her Mama, Papa, and Frenchie brother Dewy went outside; only to find the most beautiful rainbow arched over their home and backyard, confirming to her family her speedy and safe arrival to her rightful destination. She was loved by her parents, brother, and family more than anyone could ever describe in words and will be forever missed. In our hearts she will always remain, and our lives she will continue to touch for eternity. -We love SO much 'little Nell', and wish you all the love and happiness that heaven has to offer as you rest, run, and play in peace....

In Memory of Lucy Patoosie Lopes

Mommy and Daddy use lots of words big and small everyday; none of them could possibly describe the joy and love we felt while you were with us and certainly none of them could come close to describing the pain we feel now that you’re gone. You were our angel, our baby, our life for 5 wonderful, but way too short years. We’ll never forget those road trips to Florida or to Maine. How many little dogs can say they’ve done their business from Ft. Myers to Newport, Maine? You could, and you deserved every mile! We’ll never forget snuggling in bed all night during thunderstorms, sitting on Mommy’s lap while your little sister pushed at you from inside Mommy’s belly, or you taking a nap in the afternoon with Daddy after an early morning work start. 
While its true, you bit every dog you ever met, from Uncle John’s Great Dane Scooby, to Jacob’s pitbull Bubba, to VoVoo’s American Bulldog Daisy and Nana’s Westie Seamus; plus every other creature that had the nerve to move in your presence, vacuum included, you knew no fear and your heart was as big as a freight train. No one who met you could resist your charm. You touched so many people in your short time with us; it’s just not fair that 5 years was all we got. All cried at your passing, even the sky that night. And rightly so, you ruled all before you while you were here and tribute needed to be paid one last time. We all knew you wouldn’t have it any other way. 
You got one week with your new sister, Eva before you left. I guess you taught us every lesson you were sent to teach us. We would have liked you to teach your little sister a few more, but we all know how you are about sharing. The only answer we can come up with is that God sent you here for us and us alone. We’ll carry on and teach Eva what you taught us, but it’s just not the same. Never will be. 
It’s been a long time since you were able to chase that big beach ball and roll yourself over the top of it like you used to. We know that’s what you’re up to now. Keep it inflated till Mommy and Daddy get there so we can all have a turn, just like we know heaven will be. Life here will never be the same without you. We love you with everything we are, just as you did with us. That’s always been the bond between Man and Dog and we feel privileged to have shared that with you. 

Rest in peace sweet angel.

In Loving Memory of Brie

They say that you can't teach an old dog new tricks. Its not the dogs that need to learn... Those of you who believe that you should only adopt puppies don't know how much love you are really missing out on. Today, I had to let my little Brie go free, back to the loving source that gave her to me. She survived years of torture and abuse in a puppy mill, was thrown out like the trash to wander in the dead of winter in a barren wasteland in southern Kansas until she died. But she didn't. And, I was lucky enough to adopt this grand old lady from FBRN. So shy and reserved, yet desperately wanting to share her love, she bonded quickly with my much younger Frenchie, learned to cuddle, play with toys and rough house like the best of them. A miracle girl, last year she beat the odds that her aggressive mammary cancer would take her within a month. She lived joyously another year with no special intervention. So after I complete this memorial to one of the sweetest souls I will ever share my life with, I will be applying to adopt another special senior citizen. Thank you foster mom Courtney and FBRN who make these love stories possible. Aprille Hill

In Loving Memory of Nero

This week our FBRN family was saddened by the all too early death of one of our young fosters. Nero was a smiley faced, two and a half year old that was recently whisked from the poor breeding practices of a backyard facility. In spite of the squalid conditions he was forced to endure prior to arriving into the loving care of his foster family, Nero was a happy, playful boy who deserved far more time to be loved on and cared for than he was allowed. 

Puppy millers and backyard breeders are not interested in the happiness or welfare of their dogs. Rather, it is nothing more than a business where puppies are churned out in assembly line style and breeding adults are kept in abominable conditions, often housed in wire cages, and not allowed access to even the most basic of veterinary care. Until he arrived into the protection of FBRN, Nero had never been seen by a veterinarian. Not even once.

If Nero had been given a once over in his developmental years, perhaps the Interverterbral Disc Disease that was instrumental in shortening his life could have been addressed and maintained earlier. In two short days, this sweet boy went from guarded walking to rapid deterioration with almost complete paralysis. Surgery was an option, but with only a small success rate in Nero’s case, his foster mom made the very painful decision to let him go with dignity.

Nero’s dedicated foster mom said these touching words about her happy boy: “Nero came to us this past January after being rescued from a back-yard breeder/hoarder, where for the first two years of his life, he was keep in an outside, dirt-floored kennel in all weather extremes. He was neglected and had never been seen by a vet until he came into FBRN's care. Despite his rough first two years, he was the sweetest little soul I have ever known. My heart is completely broken. I miss him so much. But aside from my own hurt from missing him, I'm upset more so because he only had just under 6 months with us to be loved and cared for, and he deserved more time. He was just under 2 1/2 years old. Although he was my foster boy, and was to be placed on the "Available Page" soon, he was indeed "home" here with us and I felt that he was part of our family, not just a temporary foster. I'm grateful for the time we had with Nero and I now imagine him running and playing at the Rainbow Bridge, just like he did here on earth. I'm also grateful to FBRN for all that was done to help Nero. Without FBRN, he may not have been rescued and I wouldn't have had the opportunity to love and care for him. Thank you all for all you do as FBRN volunteers. “ 

Unsavory breeders are not concerned about the health or soundness of their dogs, nor are they interested in bettering the breed. Money is their only driving force, and they will indiscriminately bring any two dogs together for no reason other than to make a profit. This negligence frequently results in sickly, orthopedically incorrect and behaviorally unpredictable dogs. Nero, like many other frogs in our care, is a result of these atrocious breeding practices. We implore anyone who is looking to purchase a French Bulldog – or any other pedigree – to research the breed, research the breeder, and educate themselves on any health/genetic testing that should be done on the parents by a reputable breeder prior to breeding. Or, better yet, why not honor Nero’s memory and either donate to or apply for one of our fosters? Godspeed Nero. You will truly be missed.

In Loving Memory of Tiny Tim

Tiny Tim’s foster dad had a terrible surprise when he awoke. Tim just didn’t seem himself and was panting and drooling uncontrollably. Thinking quickly, foster dad rushed him into the vet ASAP, where Tim was immediately put on oxygen and given a sedative to try and calm him. Despite the oxygen, subsequent intubation, and other life-saving attempts, Tim’s condition deteriorated rapidly. It was agreed by all that he would never survive the transfer to an ICU facility. Tiny Tim’s foster dad chose to do the only right thing by his sweet, gentle boy and allowed him to go peacefully to the Bridge.

Here are a few poignant words from Tim’s foster dad: “My Tiny Tim has had problems with his anxieties and controlling himself. When he first came here he trembled and panted for 4 days as we tried everything to calm this little man. Whenever he got a little stressed he would pant uncontrollably and I would have to take Tim off by ourselves and get him calmed down.

"My wife and I are just devastated over this! We had planned to apply for him ourselves if the perfect home didn’t come along during his first month on the available page. He had turned into such a happy, happy boy here and looked forward to each and every day and every new adventure.

"I still can’t believe my boy is gone! Run free my special man, and always be the happy dog you had become! We ALL miss you terribly!”

It’s never easy when one of our fosters passes away. But when it’s sudden it is so much more painful. Our condolences go out to Tim’s foster family. And our thanks go out to Tim’s sponsors and our loyal FBRN supporters. Thank you for allowing us to always get these frogs the treatments they deserve.

In Loving Memory of Baguette

Sadly, the friendly, little, brindle girl whose foster family thought she was better than sliced bread, lost her fight with pneumonia this week.

Receiving IV fluids and antibiotics, and not able to be taken off oxygen, Baguette was steadily getting worse rather than better. Her diligent, loving foster mom called the hospital multiple times a day to check on her girl and was told that poor Baguette did not have a good prognosis. In the end, she decided the most compassionate thing she could do for Baguette was to let her go with dignity.

There’s a big empty space in Baguette’s foster home this week. Here are some words from her devastated foster mom: “I am very upset about losing her. She was only with my family for a couple of weeks but she had made herself part of the family from day one. I was really looking forward to spending several months with her while we took care of all of her medical issues and got her ready to find an adoptive family.”

Thank you to everyone who prayed for and sponsored Baguette. Though we couldn't save her, she would not have had any chance at all without your generous donations.

In Loving Memory of Jelly

There is much sadness hanging over Jelly’s foster home this week. The silly, sweet girl with the cutest face ever, lost her battle to heartworm disease.

Jelly was in her second week of adult heartworm treatment and foster mom was doing all the right things. Although it was difficult, Jelly was kept calm and away from the other dogs as treatment dictated that she could not get excited. Sadly, sometimes this is not enough. Jelly collapsed in her foster mom’s arms in cardiac arrest, and even after being rushed to the ER and having CPR performed there was nothing to be done for her.

Here are some touching words from Jelly’s bereaved foster mom: “I knew she was special when she ended up sleeping in my bed after just one week. She had the cutest face. She almost looked like she had an English Bulldog face but huge Frenchie ears. She was so incredibly sweet and oh, how she loved me, and I loved her. My husband and kids would say that she wouldn't listen or even go to the bathroom for anyone but me.

"When we first got her, she had obviously been an outside dog who had several litters. She didn't even really know what attention was until she came here. Once she figured out what that was, she was a real snuggle bunny. She found out what toys were and really became part of the pack here at my house.

"She taught me so much about giving and just how grateful these rescue dogs are that we can give them a second chance. I know in my heart that I gave her the best six months of her life and she really had a family for this first time. Oh, how I miss that sweet girl.”

Heartworm disease is so very serious and much easier to prevent than to treat. In honor of Jelly’s memory, please make an appointment to take your dog in for a yearly heartworm test and maintain them on monthly prophylaxis.

In Loving Memory of Bon Bon

This week, the Rainbow Bridge has added yet another sweet confection to its candy box. Sadly, Bon Bon has lost her brave struggle with the histoplasmosis that had ravaged her petite body.

After spending weeks in the hospital on IV fluids and receiving potent antifungal medications, Bon Bon was still showing no improvement. Rather, she continued to lose weight, vomit and her blood pressure was plummeting. The consulting specialist in the animal hospital stated that her condition was so advanced, that even if she survived the weekend without succumbing to multi organ failure, her prognosis was still grim.

Here are some tender words from Bon Bon’s heartbroken foster mom: “We decided the best thing to do was let her be at peace. She has struggled so much and with no sign of improvement. I didn't want her to suffer anymore. I held her and she gave me a kiss on the cheek. It was very quick. She can finally be pain free. I am having her ashes returned and she can sit with my kitty Tux on the shelf, forever at rest.

Thanks to everyone who prayed for her. Her little body just couldn't handle anymore.”

And thank you, all of our loyal sponsors, for allowing us to get Bon Bon the love and medical attention she so truly deserved.

In Loving Memory of Louis Gardner:
4/19/2009-2/10/2011

In his 1.5 years, Louis' hilariously charming personality earned him countless friends- human and canine alike. He left us far too soon and will never be forgotten.

They say memories are golden
Well maybe that is true.
I never wanted memories
...I only wanted you.

How many times I've played with you
We've laid and laughed and cried.
If love alone could have saved you
You never would have died.
Anonymous Author

In Memory of Wilbur

With sad hearts we must report that Wilbur was put to sleep at the end of March. He had a tumor on his aorta and there was nothing that could be done to save him. Even though we only had Wilbur for 9 months, we both developed very close bonds with him. He was the sweetest, classiest mammal we ever knew. Personally, I was with him practically 24/7 and took him most everywhere with me because the one thing he could not take was being alone. Although we had Wilbur for only a short time he enjoyed going on 3 trips; including driving with me down to New Orleans. I am a musician and he got to lie at my feet while I played several performances. He naturally stole the show without even having to open his eyes. While Wilbur loved me, he was clearly a ladies man. When Hafsa was home he would spend every moment with her. While I have no idea how anyone could have given Wilbur up after living with him for 10+ years, we are thankful that they did. As a friend of mine told me "Wilbur softened your heart". Everyone who ever met Wilbur loved him and he loved them. We knew what we were getting into by adopting a 10 year old dog but we did not expect him to go so soon or so suddenly. It is hard to go about the day without him. Perfect in every way, Wilbur was truly a classic!

-Rob Wagner for Rob, and Hafsa Ibrahim- adopted human

In Memory of Montague

Montague was heartbrokenly surrendered to FBRN by his family because the daily care for his seizure disorder required more attention than they were able to provide. His family was hopeful FBRN would be able to find Montague a forever home where he would receive constant attention and care for his seizures.

Sadly, after a couple days in his new foster home, Montague began exhibiting symptoms that he suffered from a brain tumor. His foster mom immediately took him to the vet who confirmed our suspicions. Within a very short amount of time, Montague took a turn for the worse and made his journey over the Rainbow Bridge. His foster mom was there to comfort him as he was able to rest in peace, forever free from his seizures.

Regardless of how long our foster frogs are with us, it is very hard on our foster families when one of our foster fur kids crosses the Rainbow Bridge, and Montague is no exception.

In Memory of Sammi

Today a beautiful cream colored Frenchie trotted across the bridge. His back and legs were perfectly formed; his coat glowing with good health. He yodeled happily when he saw my boy Juice, who said goodbye to this earth last October. Leaving behind his sad, crooked body, the new arrival will never feel illness or pain again.

My heart is broken; this was my Sammi whom I set free this morning. He had been struggling since December, when various tests revealed nothing definitive, possibly stomach cancer. He had good days and bad days until recently when the bad days became unrelenting.

Until his last moment, he was the kindest, most gracious little boy and I will never forget him. My thanks to the Board who allowed him to remain in my care as a hospice foster. Thanks also to the wonderful volunteers who helped make his last year happy, sending him gifts and well wishes.

My vet had given Sammi a March 1st "birthday" based on his old vet records. Yesterday, he was eleven years old and suffering. Today, he is forever young.

In lieu of messages, if you would like to remember Sammi, please PayPal $5.00 to FBRN today. If a lot of folks do it, another little hospice dog can live out his time surrounded by love.

In Memory of Morgan

When FBRN's distinguished, 11-year-old Morgan had been adopted by a wonderful family in Arizona, we were very happy and hopeful he would have several years of living a charmed life with his new family. They were experienced with brachyphalic and rescue dogs having been involved with Boston Terrier and Pug rescue. There couldn't have been a more perfect home for Morgan. It is always so rewarding for FBRN when families like Morgan's are willing to give our elderly frogs a loving home. Sadly, shortly after moving to his new home, Morgan suffered congestive heart failure and crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. We're thankful to his family for giving him so much love in the short amount of time he was with them.

In Memory of Nohe'o

Nohe'o (in Hawaiian means Mischievous, Rascal, pronounced no-hay-oh) crossed over The Rainbow Bridge. It was so unexpected. The night before Nohe'o seemed fine and himself, but at the same time tried to warn us that he was not feeling well. With no sign of injury or anything was wrong, the next morning he did his normal routine with just minutes away of having our household goods delivered to our new home with his bed on its way. Nohe'o was put into his crate so he would not be in the way of the movers. After receiving and unpacking and ready to come out from his crate Nohe'o wasn't able to stand and lost his mobility. We took him to the Vet and they weren't able to give him steroids because he had an enlarged heart that appeared on his x-rays and this we did not know of we were aware of that he was born with a cruciate spine but not of the enlarged heart. With days that passed Nohe'o did show signs of some improvement but then it took a downturn. Nohe'o was a sweet, lovable and loyal Frenchie 'til the end. We had him at 3 months old, he was my companion along with his sister the cat throughout numerous deployments his Daddy had who just recently retired from the Army. They kept me busy, especially Nohe'o kept me busy a lot for he would harass his sister. I would like to thank the Foster Parent Team Jackie Rabang & Shannon for their fast response for helping us to make it possible to have Nohe'o cross over The Rainbow Bridge, without their help I would not have known what else to do. Jackie has been very helpful through this difficult time and I really appreciate all that she has done for us, that words aren't simply enough to express how grateful we are. I am glad that there is such a wonderful organization that you have and to the Volunteers that go out of there way to help. Thank you. Mommy Love & Miss You Sooooo MUCH Nohe'o until we meet again. R.I.P. Nohe'o 06/01/2003-02/03/2011 Love, Kawai, Lou, Mason & Grandpa (Papa)

In memory of Puddin

Early this morning Puddin left this world. She had been with me since she was 5 weeks old. She was always the sweetest girl, helpng me raise many Frenchie babies as well as helping with the multitude of foster dogs that streamed through our life.

All of her life, Puddin dealt with sudden "spells" where she was not able to walk. Sometimes it would only be for a few hours, sometimes for days. Many times I feared that it would be the end for her, but she would pull out of it. I have never seen anyone that had a stronger will to live than Puddin. She has shown me that when life looks like a dead end, if you have the will, you can turn it around.

I have been privileged to have shared 14 years of my life with this wonderful being. She has truly taught me so much; she has always been there to silently comfort me when I was down, and join in on the good times.

I am profoundly sad this morning for myself, but am rejoicing that she is free of the physical issues that plagued her body. I know she is running free right now with Olivia, who left two years ago this month. Godspeed my friend, I miss you so much.

In memory of Armistead

There is a huge, puppy-shaped cloud hanging over FBRN this week. With heavy hearts, we are all mourning the brave little puppy with the big name. Armistead, at only ten months of age, was pure sunshine; brightening his foster mom's life and the lives of everyone he met. He was acuddly, lovey puppy with a huge heart, and didn't allow his puppy mill beginning and subsequent health conditions to affect his zest for life.

Armi endured two previous surgeries for a prolapsed rectum and was having an additional surgery to correct his hips and knees. This was to try and alleviate some of the discomfort he was experiencing, to improve his quality of life, and to just help him live like a normal puppy. We'll let his foster mom tell the rest of his story:

"When I kissed those black lips goodbye this morning I didn't think it would be for the last time. During Armi's surgery to repair his hips and knees, his blood pressure skyrocketed and his heart stopped. The vet stopped surgery, already more than halfway in, and worked on trying to get him stable for a half an hour. Armi's heart was just not cooperating and he passed away.
I am so upset and can't stop crying. Armi was so full of life and we were trying to give him an even better and fuller life with the surgery. He zest for life will surely be missed.
~RIP~ Armi I loved you."
Armi lived his life full throttle; playing hard, loving hard, and enjoying every moment to its fullest. Perhaps he knew his time here was precious. We should all take a lesson from the little puppy that didn't let his own boundaries get in his way. Our deepest condolences to his foster family. Thank you for loving him. And thank you, all of our supporters, for making his care – and the care of our other fosters – possible.

In memory of Roscoe the Elder

It is with a very heavy heart that I send the news of Roscoe's passing. Our wonderful old, old man's heart just couldn't keep up any more...

We are very sad. We love you, Roscoe and will hold you in our hearts forever.