It’s been almost two weeks since our beloved doggie Oscar crossed over to that big field of play, love, and liberation. Oscar came home with us on the Saturday after Thanksgiving 2007. He was just 8 weeks old and totally adorable. We actually came home with Oscar and Zoe. We thought we were choosing one dog that day, but sometimes life has a way of giving you a little more than you had planned. Zoe was already a year old, so we arrived home with two new family members. We already had Macc, a 65-pound boxer–border collie mix. In a matter of days they were a strong and happy 3-pack. Oscar loved chasing and being chased by Macc and Zoe. Oscar looked up to Macc and followed his lead in all things fun. Oscar loved going on walks on sunny days as well as when the weather was inclement. Snowing—he loved it; raining—who cares; windy—even better. That said, Oscar did not like thunderstorms or loud noises. When we moved to Colorado, we had the laundry room soundproofed so that he would have refuge. But he would still feel the storms and pant or hide until they passed. We tried everything to calm him. It was only in the last few years, when his hearing was a bit impaired, that he didn’t mind storms anymore. Or perhaps he was just a bit more relaxed because he was an old soul and his wisdom grew.
Oscar loved going for road trips! He was happy going on a trip to the grocery store or across the country in the car. He would sit and look out the window as if he were studying the landscapes and smells with the curiosity of a young child. Oscar was very smart and learned commands easily, as well as loved the treats given whether playing or learning. He was top dog when it came to finding hidden treats around the house—a game he could play all day. Oscar loved the beach but didn’t like the water. He would run and run and run, with Zoe and Macc close by. The after-shower/bath party would be just as much fun, with zoomies around the house afterward—tail wagging and a curled, smiling grin on his face.
Macc crossed over in 2016, and then Zoe crossed this March 2025. He lay right next to Zoe as Dr. Kiera assisted Zoe in her crossing, so sweetly loving and caring in that moment. The last 8 months of Oscar’s life, he loved sitting in the stroller and going for walks/rides. He could still walk, but not for a long distance, so this became our daily exercise. I believe he enjoyed the ride as much as the walking! Oscar was the most resilient doggie I have ever known. There were a few times when I thought perhaps it was time, but he always rallied. He was a dog with nine lives! A big thank-you to the vets at Rise Vet for being incredibly loving to Oscar, even when he was a bit stubborn about being prodded or poked! Your care was wonderful. Indeed, even at home Oscar could be stubborn with his diet—fresh chicken or turkey, please—and when it came time for bed, 8 p.m. was his bedtime and he wanted everyone to join him, regardless of whether things were still happening in the home. It was as if he would say, “Come on guys, can’t you see it’s 8 p.m.? Time for bed!”
His passing was gentle, and our cat Hobbit lay next to him as he crossed. We were fortunate to have Dr. Kiera assist him. I like to think he is playing with Zoe and Macc in a big, wonderful field, free of his aging body. His passing leaves a huge hole in our home, but it is slowly filled each day with memories of his grace and deeply loving, big heart. I can truly say that Oscar was my knight in shining armor, and his armor was his LOVE for me and for our family. Thank you, Oscar, for choosing us on that day in 2007. We are all blessed to have shared your life as your chosen family for 18 years.
