We have some sad news to share. Roscoe, a Set for Life foster, passed away on Monday, November 13, 2023. His health took a sudden turn, and the difficult decision was made for Roscoe to pass peacefully with his ‘foster’ mom by his side. When opening her home, and heart, to Roscoe, she knew he would be with her for the duration of his life, so the term ‘foster’ was just another word for forever.

Roscoe was full of surprises, which made each day with him an adventure. He was often found near a speaker listening to music – 90s grunge and 80s metal were his favourite. If music was playing, Roscoe would find his way to it and fall asleep. Roscoe was blind but didn’t let that stop his love for exploration. He regularly played “hunt the cheese and chicken” and left no area of his home unturned. When his mom discovered a leak under the bathroom sink, excited for a new activity, Rosco jumped into her lap and took on the role of plumber’s assistant. He even represented BTRC at Capital Pride in August 2023, where he networked with volunteers, alumni and the public. But for Roscoe, it was never the activity that truly mattered, but rather being as close to mom as possible. ❤

Roscoe was always near his mom’s heart – so much so that his preferred snuggling place was the inside of her sweatshirt. He was also known for his signature ‘happy hop’ in the mornings. Always up for human attention, Roscoe was described as a “kissing machine” and cheerfully greeted everyone he met. He even found the home’s sweet spot – right near the bathroom. This smart boy figured out that every human needs to use the bathroom at some point, so the odds of getting extra scratches and pets were higher in that area of the home.

We are so very grateful that Roscoe spent the last year of his life with a mom who loved him so deeply. Affectionately referring to him as her “gremlin,” she lived each day for Roscoe and cherished every moment with him. She described him as a “beautiful and endearing soul” and said, “To meet him is to instantly fall in love.” 💕

Roscoe no longer needs his blind dog halo – his sight now fully restored, he’s traded it in for his angel one.

Run healthy and free Roscoe. You will forever be remembered, loved and missed. 🌈🐾

Summer lovin’ for Roscoe!

Our Set for Life Roscoe has been loving his life of cuddles, playtime and snack hunting. He has also decided that morning yoga is now a regular occurrence on his agenda. It’s a nice complement to his monthly acupuncture visits.

Roscoe has made an amazing recovery from his bout with vestibular disease. Also on the medical front, a small lump on his left hind leg was checked out and found to be a sebaceous adenoma. Sometimes called an ‘old dog wart’ because of its appearance, it’s really not a wart at all, but rather a small benign tumour. There is nothing needed to be done at this point as it’s simply cosmetic. As with all bumps and lumps, however, his attentive foster mom will monitor for any changes.

One of Roscoe’s favourite places is his doggy garden where he can investigate all the interesting smells. Roscoe is also carefully learning the parameters of the yard without the use of his halo. Outside also means he can go “au naturel” (i.e. no doggy diapers!).

Roscoe recently had a staycation at a temporary foster home while his foster mom was away. He enjoyed time with a feline friend, Cammi, though he seemed most intrigued by her litter box. 😹

Now on to the juicy stuff…

Rosco is unaware, but the paparazzi finally scored a picture of his girlfriend, Lilla! Though Roscoe is still playing it cool, witnesses have stated that Roscoe is clearly riveted by the sound of her squeaky barks. Our paparazzi will be standing by to capture the makings of true love for Roscoe the Romeo. 📸💘.

To read more about our Set for Life program please click HERE.

 

 

Roscoe is Raring to Go!

Our Set for Life Foster Roscoe has many endearing qualities, but his determination, perseverance and fighting-spirit are at the top of the list. In May 2023, Roscoe was diagnosed with vestibular disease, a sudden disturbance in a dog’s balance much like vertigo in humans. Most common in seniors, vestibular disease is often called “old dog vestibular syndrome”. If no underlying cause can be found, like an ear infection or injury, the good news is that the condition isn’t painful and will likely clear up on its own without additional treatment.

Rosco’s balance and sense of direction have already made a significant improvement. One might think this episode would deter 14-year-old Roscoe from wanting to gallivant, but it has not. Roscoe is a risk taker and loves living on the wild side. For those of you who are not aware, Roscoe is from Detroit, the “Motor City,” so it makes sense that he is always motoring around!

Roscoe’s travels are always carefully supervised – his foster mom lovingly follows him closely with every step. When his mom is unable to escort him on his travels, Roscoe is expected to relax in his comfy carrier. We asked how this arrangement was working out and she informed us that, “he has organized a union against me, claiming unlawful detention.”

One of our generous volunteers had already purchased Roscoe a “halo” and this accessory has helped to curb his potential revolt! The halo allows him more independence and the ability to roam freely while protecting his head from bumps. His mom has also planted tall grass around the yard that signals Roscoe to stop before he reaches a “head-bonk” zone. Roscoe was so excited at his freedom outdoors that he started hopping with joy! To be fair, he didn’t get off the ground, but we still appreciate the gesture!

On to some more juicy news…Roscoe has a girlfriend! He is being tight-lipped about the situation. All we know is that her name is Lilla, she is a chihuahua and Roscoe is playing hard-to-get. When pressed for more information, all he said was, “A gentleman doesn’t kiss and tell.” Look out for the pawparazzi, Roscoe, your followers want to know more!

To read more about our Set for Life program please click HERE.