Three Dogs Snoring's Foster Golden, Leo, passed April 21, 2010.

Being diagnosed with low-grade Lymphoma in February 2009, Leo was faced with limited options, but for fifteen months - he consistently filled our hearts with joy.

Leo came to us as a foster after being surrendered to GRIN (Golden Retrievers in Need) by his owners of twelve years and was graciously welcomed into our home by our other pets. They all appeared to be aware of Leo's illness and limitations and each of them respectfully yielded to his senior standing. In spite of his debilitating cancer, Leo’s spirit remained high. He was active to the very end; always had a great appetite (he loved his animal cracker treats), and otherwise appeared to be in overall good health.

Leo loved our shade garden's fountain. For hours, he would lay about the garden and listen to the soothing sounds of the fountain's flowing water. Occasionally, he would get up for a drink; then return to his solitude. We are grateful that Leo was able to be in the garden this spring. On his final day, as he laid among the garden's thriving plant life, Leo enjoyed the warmth of abundant sunshine and the cool tranquil sounds of "his fountain".

Fostering this senior from the GRIN organization has been a celebrated experience for my wife and me. Although Leo’s cancer was slowly overpowering him; he never failed to fill our life with delight. He was so grateful for the care we offered, the companionship of our pets, and the unconditional love we all collectively shared.

Mankind could stand to learn from a Golden named "Leo" and fostering and/or adopting a senior will touch your heart more than you can ever imagine. If you are interested in adopting a Golden, please refer to G.R.I.N.'s official web site at: www.grinrescue.org. Other breed specific rescue organizations exist too; just Goggle "Pet Rescue" for your local and surrounding zip codes. And please; support your local and national pet shelters and rescue organizations. Thank you.

Special thanks to Leo’s GRIN sponsor; Mr. John Butler. Your support of Leo has been greatly appreciated.

Foster Photo 07-25-2009:

Foster Photo 08-26-2009:

Foster Photo 10-10-2009:

Foster Photo 02-10-2010: