Featured In Honor / Memory Of Pets

This collection of special pets has been created because individuals have made donations to Paws4Potter in honor of or in memory of pets that have been cancer warriors. If you would like to make a donation in honor or in memory of a special dog or cat that has had (or is currently battling) cancer, please click here.

A picture of Molly at Thompson Park (Watertown, NY), courtesy of Patrick Danforth Photography.

“Molly” Rice

Molly was a true K9 cancer warrior and fought valiantly for almost a year with an inoperable tumor affecting her spleen and liver. She lived life to the absolute fullest with her pet parents, Alyson Rice and Patrick Danforth, receiving pain medication and herbal supplements to control her aggressive cancer.

A lovely donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of Molly by Judy and Michael Geng of Watertown, NY. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

A second beautiful donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of Molly by Charles and Deborah Yartz.

A picture of Dozer with his ball, courtesy of Cortney Skinner.

“DOZER” Skinner

Dozer will always be remembered as a fun-loving Labrador who enjoyed carrots, playing with his toys, and taking walks. He was very much loved by his family and all those who knew him in his community. His life was cut way too short by a suspected lung tumor; his symptoms began only a week before his diagnosis.

A lovely donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of Dozer by Judy and Michael Geng of Watertown, NY. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

A picture of Mo, courtesy of Dr. Ashley Jones.

Mohegan “MO” Jones

Mohegan (“Mo”) Jones was a true K9 cancer warrior and was beloved by everyone lucky enough to know him. He was best buddy to Dr. Ashley Jones and Scott Dawe. He was a well-traveled dog, following his mom and dad on many adventures across the United States. He fought valiantly against nasal cancer.

A lovely donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of Mo by the staff of Valley Veterinary Clinic (Watertown, NY), which is owned by Mo’s mom, Ashley. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

A picture of Greta, photo courtesy of Shelley Graham.

“Greta” Graham

“Greta” was a beautiful and regal Great Dane beloved by everyone who knew her, especially her parents, Shelley and Stuart Graham. Greta was diagnosed with osteosarcoma (a form of bone cancer) in June of 2019, a devastating diagnosis for her parents to hear. Greta enjoyed an additional month with her family while receiving palliative care before she crossed the Rainbow Bridge.

A lovely donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of Greta by Judy and Michael Geng of Watertown, NY. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

A picture of Dexter, courtesy of Bill and Kim Quimby.

“Dexter” Quimby

Dexter was an amazing, happy-go-lucky, and gentle Bernese Mountain Dog beloved by his pet parents, Bill and Kim Quimby. He was diagnosed with an aggressive oral cancer that was unfortunately found during a presumably routine dental in the fall of 2018. With intense love from his pet parents and palliative care, Dexter lived until the summer of 2019 when his cancer became too aggressive to continue palliative treatment. He was loved by all who knew him, and he spent a great deal of time out walking with Bill and Kim.

A lovely donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of Dexter by his pet parents, Bill and Kim Quimby. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

Photo of “Felicity Jane,” courtesy of her mom, Candy Brown.

“Felicity Jane” Brown

“Felicity Jane” Brown was a sweet, beautiful Yellow Labrador beloved by her mom, Candy, and everyone who knew her. She developed an aggressive cancer at only 5 years of age and passed at the end of October, 2019.

A lovely donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of Felicity Jane by Donna Lindquist. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

Photo of “Lillie Grace”, courtesy of her mom, Elizabeth Berberian.

“Lillie Grace” Berberian

“Lillie Grace” was a beautiful, intelligent Golden Retriever Mix who loved life and loved people. She was her mom, Elizabeth’s, soulmate - Elizabeth found her in the forest at only 4 months of age. Lillie Grace was recently lost to cancer.

A lovely donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of Lillie Grace by Judy Danto. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

A second beautiful donation was made in memory of Lillie by Diana Conroy. Half of this donation was also directed to the National Canine Cancer Foundation.

Photo of “Casey,” courtesy of her mom, Allison Albers.

“Casey” Albers

Casey was a beautiful Black Labrador who was the “true definition of a best friend,” according to her mom, Allison. For fourteen years, Casey’s parents, Allison and Jared, made amazing memories with her. Casey loved going for walks, being around her family, and eating. Eating . . . always a joy for Labradors!

Casey had several ailments over the last year or so, but her family always took amazing care of her. She was terrified of entering the veterinary clinic, so her exams were typically done outside or in her mom’s vehicle over the last 6-12 months. Towards the end, she developed an aggressive, ulcerated tumor on her chest and was having significant mobility issues. When her pain medication was no longer effective, Allison and Jared made the most selfless decision that they could and said goodbye to their faithful companion of 14 years.

A very thoughtful donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of Casey by her parents. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

Photo of “Jack,” courtesy of his mom, Marissa Hyde.

Jack “The Copilot” Hyde

Jack was a spunky, adventurous Jack Russell Terrier who loved going for car rides, sniffing out all the food in any given room, and snoozing with his mom, Marissa. He may have had short, stubby legs, but boy could those legs move when food was dropped on the floor!

Jack was a two-time mast cell cancer survivor and a four-time attendee at the Paws4Potter annual “Making A Mark On K9 Cancer” dog walk. He was the epitome of the phrase, “live life to the fullest.”

Jack was nicknamed “The Copilot” by his mom, Marissa. He spent many hours in the passenger seat of her car while she drove all over the county for her pet-sitting business.

Jack possibly loved food more than any other dog on the face of the planet. Sometimes, that unrequited love got the best of him when he went after chocolate, candy, or inedible “food.”

In December of 2019, Jack was diagnosed with suspected mast cell cancer metastasis. He fought very bravely against it; however, his mom had to say goodbye to him in early January of 2020.

A very thoughtful donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of Jack by Judy and Michael Geng. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

“Josie” (fawn) and “Zeus” (brindle) Lee - Photo courtesy of Christopher and Amy Tretter.

“Josie” Lee

“Josie” Lee was a sweet, fawn Bull Mastiff and beloved canine companion to Matt and Brianne Lee. She was considered the “Queen Bee” to all who knew her. She fought mast cell cancer in her mouth, and her family had to say goodbye to her at 10 years of age. Shortly thereafter, they lost her brother, “Zeus,” to complications from chronic kidney disease. What a beautiful pair these kiddos were.

A very kind donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of “Josie” by Christopher and Amy Tretter. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

“Nittany” Remus

“Nittany” was a beautiful and handsome Black Labrador who loved life and people so much. As depicted in his photo, he loved sporting bandannas! He also enjoyed playing fetch and hiding his toys for others to help him find afterwards. He meant so very much to his parents, Laurie and Bruce Remus, and he was very much loved by everyone who knew him.

Just after his tenth birthday, Nittany fell suddenly ill and succumbed to a ruptured splenic tumor. He is very much missed.

A very beautiful donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of “Nittany” by Judy and Michael Geng, the Remus’s neighbor and pet sitter. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

“Magnum” Brown

“Magnum” was a handsome, sweet Yellow Labrador who lived life to the absolute fullest. He enjoyed treats and being petted and going on adventures with his family. He also loved his Black Labrador brother, “Cole.”

Magnum became somewhat of a “bionic dog” over the last few years of his life, having had bilateral ACL repairs and spending a long period of time in physical therapy. However, he never stopped loving life. He always had a smile on his face, no matter what his ailments were.

Shortly after his annual examination in early 2020, Magnum became acutely ill. He was diagnosed with a bleeding splenic tumor, and his family had to make the very difficult decision to say goodbye to him.

His parents - Joy and Marshall Brown - made a beautiful donation in memory of their very special boy to Paws4Potter. Half of this donation has been redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

“Happy Jack” VanBenschoten

Jack - also known as “Happy Jack” and “Stick Jack” - was a handsome, energetic Black Labrador Retriever who befriended and was loved by many. His parents, Sue and Dave VanBenschoten, adopted him from a bird hunting preserve at the end of his hunting career.

Jack spent the last three years of his life basking in the love and adventures that his family gave him. While he may not have “understood” the kisses and hugs that his parents bestowed upon him at the beginning of his life with them, he quickly learned to relish in them.

Jack was given a beautiful life in his “golden years,” despite succumbing to cancer in the spring of 2020. He will forever be remembered as a happy, energetic boy.

A lovely donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of “Happy Jack” by Judy and Michael Geng. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

“Sasha Marie” Marsteiner

“Sasha Marie” was a sweet, happy 8-year-old Bloodhound who was rescued by her pet parents, Amy and Ron Marsteiner, in the spring of 2017. Sasha had a laundry list of medical ailments - elbow dysplasia, bilateral ACL tears, and chronic ear infections, to name just a few - but that didn’t stop her new family from loving her with all of their hearts and giving her countless opportunities to live life to the fullest.

That same year, Sasha was diagnosed with an aggressive form of nasal cancer. A CT scan revealed that it was affecting both her soft and hard palates and was close to her pituitary gland. Despite this devastating news, Amy and Ron didn’t give up hope of providing Sasha with the best care they possibly could. They sought out a hospice and palliative care veterinarian, who helped them make Sasha as comfortable and happy as possible for over six months. They were able to celebrate Sasha’s ninth birthday in June of 2018 - including her own spa day, two birthday parties, and her own photo session - before her health significantly deteriorated. Amy and Ron had to say goodbye to their beautiful girl in July of 2018.

Amy remarked in a letter to me that “Even with all of Sasha’s medical problems, she was the happiest girl. Sasha taught us to keep moving forward.”

A very beautiful donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of “Sasha Marie” by her parents, Amy and Ron. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

“Casper” Neander

Beautiful boy “Casper” was only four years old when he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer on his liver. He was an incredibly sweet and fun-loving boy who stole the hearts of all who knew him.

He was so very much loved by his parents, Meghan and Patrick, and was a constant companion to his 2-legged siblings, Sarah and Hadleigh, not to mention his doggie-sibling, Lucy.

Even though this cancer took Casper’s life at such a young age, he lived an incredibly full and wonderful life with his family.

A very thoughtful donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of “Casper” by Dawn Zakowicz. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

“REese” monts

(Written by Cyndie Courtney, DVM)

“Reese” was a beloved shelter pup who was lucky enough to be rescued by a huge hearted veterinary technician. Because of her mom, Reese’s first round with a mast cell tumor was detected and treated early. While her military family moved all over the country Reese was right there by their side and was patient and loving as their family grew. As her mom said, “You rolled with every change, every move, every road trip, every nutty moment, requiring little more in return than frequent belly rubs and a cozy spot to watch our daily shenanigans. A pup more perfect for our family wouldn’t exist if we had created you from thin air ourselves.” Before her diagnosis her mom had even worked as a technician for a veterinary oncologist helping other pets with cancer. When Reese’s tumor came back in one of her lymph nodes she had the perfect network set up to help her, Reese’s mom was able to start treating her right away. While unfortunate no treatment fought it back permanently, they bought her many more happy days. Her loss leaves behind a quiet, empty place and an ache in the heart of her family, and a place in their family and in their memories that will last forever.

A beautiful donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of “Reese” by Dr. Cyndie Courtney. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

“Phoebe” Hellis

“Phoebe” is a beautiful, loving, playful Lynx Point Siamese mix who was born on 9/5/2007 in Mississippi. She was rescued then fostered in Tennessee by a wonderful volunteer of Siamese Cat Rescue Center (SCRC/Virginia). She was adopted by her Mom, Dad and sister “Maggie” in March of 2008 and traveled to Virginia Beach via “Meezer Express” by volunteer drivers of SCRC. Phoebe and her family moved from Virginia to the North Country in February of 2015 and now live in Three Mile Bay, NY on Point Peninsula.

In October of 2018, Phoebe’s parents became concerned with her weight loss, vomiting and not being her playful self. After consulting with a couple of doctors at the veterinary hospital and completing blood work, x-rays, and an ultrasound, it was decided in late November to have an intestinal biopsy performed. After recuperating from surgery, Phoebe’s doctor called with results from the biopsy. Phoebe was diagnosed with low grade intestinal lymphoma.

In mid-December of 2018, she began her chemotherapy treatment: a chewable tablet of chlorambucil and a tablet of prednisolone administered every 48 hours. After about one month, she would eat around the tablets in her food, so liquid versions of both medications were recommended. After making a few “flavor” changes, Phoebe is tolerating her every other day treatment very well. In May of 2020, her doctor suggested a daily probiotic added to her food, which she eats right up unnoticed.

She has scheduled routine check-ups with her doctor, which includes blood work, weight checks, and discussions with her parents about home monitoring of her eating habits, activity, weigh ins, and any clinical symptoms and challenges they are noticing.

Phoebe is fighting her cancer like a true warrior. Her family is so proud of her and prays that her story will provide hope and assistance to other families whose beloved fur-babies are facing a similar diagnosis.

*** As of September of 2020, “Phoebe” continues to do well and is kicking cancer’s butt!

*** Phoebe’s family had to say goodbye to their beautiful Phoebe in January of 2021. She always lived life to the fullest.

A very thoughtful donation was made to Paws4Potter in honor of Phoebe by her parents, Lenore and Michael Hellis. Half of this donation is being redirected to The Brodie Fund.

A photo of “Alfred,” courtesy of veterinary technician Brooklyn Davis.

“ALFRED” DAVIS

“Alfred” was a handsome, black Labrador Retriever who was a constant companion to veterinary technician Brooklyn Davis and her family. He was a calm, low-key kind of fellow and loved going for walks with his family.

In the fall of 2020, Alfred developed an acute form of leukemia, and his family had to say goodbye to him very soon after his diagnosis. Even when he was ill, he still loved life and his family and remained a constant companion until the very end.

A very kind donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of “Alfred” by Brooklyn’s work family, Valley Veterinary Clinic. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

“JAZZ” LESHINSKI

“Jazz” was a beautiful, black-and-white Domestic Shorthair kitty belonging to Candace Leshinski and Brian Wood. She had such an incredible character, and she was always full of spunk. She waited patiently by the door for Candace to come home from work, dragged socks all around the house, and picked on her dog brother, “Luigi,” who was much bigger than she was! She loved window-gazing and spending time with her humans.

She had a taste for junk food - Wendy’s and Long John Silver’s were her favorites! And, of course, she loved ice cream and milk!

In June of 2020, Jazz was diagnosed with mammary cancer. She lived life to the fullest with her family for another 6 months. Unfortunately, the cancer spread to her lungs, and her family had to say goodbye to her in mid-January of 2021.

A beautiful donation was made to Paws4Potter in Jazz’s honor and memory by Brian Wood. Half of this donation was redirected to The Brodie Fund.

“Gloria Irene” Cleary

“Gloria Irene” was a beautiful black and tan Dachshund and a beloved member of Tim and Kathy Cleary’s family. Unfortunately, Gloria succumbed to cancer in May of 2022.

Gloria was fondly described by Kathy as having “the sweetest disposition” and was “loving and affectionate.” She especially loved children and would immediately drop down into a playful position whenever she saw children nearby! She also loved playing with her doggie sister, “Pearl.”

A lovely donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of “Gloria Irene” by Florence and Bill Heldt. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

“Scotty” Regan

“Scotty” was a spunky, well-loved Cairn Terrier who lived an adventurous life with Betsy Regan and Milo Wiley. Scotty was adopted at the age of 2 and spent a lot of time traveling up and down New York State over the years.

In May of 2018, Scotty was diagnosed with lymphoma. He received doxorubicin chemotherapy at his regular veterinarian’s office in upstate NY. This treatment protocol kept the cancer at bay for almost 7 months. Unfortunately, Scotty came out of remission that winter. He received his “angel wings” in December of 2018, just shy of his 13th birthday. His family, including two other Cairn Terriers, miss him very much and remember him fondly.

“Jenga” Kelley

Jenga was a handsome boy who loved tennis balls probably more than anything else! He went on many grand adventures with his mom, Donna, over the years.

In August of 2019, just prior to his 10th birthday, Jenga was diagnosed with oral melanoma. Despite the location and aggressiveness of this type of cancer, Jenga (with his mom by his side) fought bravely and had an amazing and adventure-filled life for 2 more years after his diagnosis.

You can read more about Jenga’s beautiful life by visiting “Canine Melanoma Warriors” under Sasha’s Information Corner on our website!

A lovely donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of Jenga by his mom, Donna Kelley. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.

“Chloe” Cullen

“Chloe” Cullen was a sweet, beautiful girl belonging to Arleen Cullen, who adopted her from a rescue called Homeward Bound. She became a registered therapy dog with Therapy Dogs International (TDI) and had over 400 visits in her lifetime with Arleen by her side. She loved visiting students at school, being helpful in the library, and visiting colleges and assisted living facilities.

After retiring from being a therapy dog, Chloe still enjoyed being a “guest star” on Arleen’s online story visits with elementary schools. She loved story time! Chloe also had her own Halloween Costume Contest every year, which can be found on her website: https://sites.google.com/site/chloescornerlovesreading

This beautiful canine cancer warrior transitioned to the Rainbow Bridge in October of 2023 after her health began to deteriorate. She will be very much missed by all who knew her.

A lovely donation was made to Paws4Potter in memory of Chloe by Judy Danto. Half of this donation was redirected to the National Canine Cancer Foundation as part of Potter’s “Friends Are The Cure” fundraising page.