Otis was my first foster pug. I always wondered how I could foster a pug and ever let it go to a forever home, but sadly, Otis never got the chance. I didn't realize how much a pug could hurt until I fostered Otis. Otis lived outside his entire life. When I got him, he was pushing 11 years old and had the most severe stage of heartworms. Again, I just didn't realize what a pug could go through. My vet explained to me that the treatment of heartworms is essentially giving the dog arsenic. It's enough to kill the worms, not not enough to kill the pug. He beat them, and I thought he was going to live forever! Otis subsequently developed fluid on his heart and lungs, and he beat that too. He then required eye surgery, and a day after the first surgery, he needed emergency eye surgery in the other eye. I was so afraid he was going to be blind (he was already mostly deaf), but he pulled through with flying colors. I thought we were in the clear.

Otis unexpectedly passed away on Thursday, October 30, 2008. It was about 65 degrees outside, and he anxiously needed out to go potty and to play in the sunshine. After being outside with his other pug friends for about 10 minutes, it was discovered that he had come inside the garage and collapsed and quickly died. I can only hope it was completely painless for him.

I loved that little guy so much. I will forever miss his sweet sideways kisses, his sloppy wet chest that he got after getting a drink (he didn't put his tongue in -- he put his whole face and body in!), his loving eyes, and his curly tail.

My stepdad buried him very close to the house, yet amongst some trees that border the woods, and I created a pretty graveside for him. It is covered in brick and has pretty yellow flowers on it. I have found comfort in being able to visit him, even though I know his soul is at the Rainbow Bridge.

If you've ever considered fostering a pug, please don't let my story scare you. As emotional as this has been for me, I would do it all over again because the love Otis gave in the several months I had him made it all worth it. I know I made his life better. I know he was comfortable. I know he was happy.

My 3 other foster pugs and my other dogs & cats will miss sweet little Otis. I know we will meet again though. Until then, run free and painlessly in the grassy meadow dear boy. I love you.

Love,

Momma
Amie Newlon