09/04/2026
A very belated tribute to sweet Dottie who crossed the Rainbow Bridge in February of 2025 after a life of adventure, joy, and most of all, love. She continues to be greatly missed by her mom and all those whose lives she touched.
We extend our heartfelt condolences and would like to share her mom’s tribute message so we can all appreciate the special dog that Dottie was and how she lives on in the hearts and minds of so many.
“I was lucky to bring home Dottie on August 9, 2019, from Forever Home Rescue New England (FHRNE). I always said it was my luckiest day! Dottie came into the custody of Boston Animal Control in July 2019 after being located in Dorchester. I viewed her “Found Dog” posting and immediately fell in love.
She was so beautiful with distinct facial features - a thick black brow above her left eye and a black circle marking around her right eye. I called animal control every day during her 10-day hold and later discovered that FHRNE had graciously taken her into their care.
Dottie was estimated to be 5-7 years old at the time of her adoption. We shared a wonderful 5 1/2 years together and lived in Boston, Washington, DC, and Madrid, Spain. Dottie enjoyed chasing dogs in parks; car rides; treats; looking out the window for passersby; and, most of all, our long walks at Castle Island, The National Mall, and Retiro Park.
Dottie was my rock, my best friend, and soul mate dog. Immediately following our return to the US in June 2024, Dottie was diagnosed with lymphoma, her second cancer diagnosis. I retired to be by her side. Dottie was selfless throughout her treatments and put up a damn good fight. I truly believe Dottie fought so hard because she knew I’d be so heartbroken. She fought until her body could no longer and crossed the rainbow bridge on February 21, 2025.
Following her passing, I began dog care services to honor Dottie - . A portion of the revenue is donated to a canine cancer non profit each year in her honor. The Live Like Foundation, who assists families with canine cancer medical expenses, received the 2025 donation.
I am so grateful for the time we shared. Until we meet again, my sweet girl.”
Sincerely,
Erica (always Dottie’s mom)
We would like to also acknowledge with gratitude the generous donation Dottie’s oncologist, Cali Coffee, recently made in her honor.