Bear

~12 years old, Rainbow Bridge

May 3, 2023: Rest in peace, Bear

It breaks our hearts to share the news today that SECR has lost another one of our own – our beloved distinguished gentleman and one of our favorite corgis on wheels, Bear. The following is a tribute from his loving forever foster family:

Bear came to us after bouncing to a couple different foster homes following his original owner’s unfortunate passing. He was a crochety old gent with mobility issues and wasn’t immediately thrilled to be moving in with 2 cats, another old geezer (foster Brother Guinness- Boxer Doodle mix) and young buck Potato (Corgi). While Bear was set in his ways and made sure we knew, he slowly settled into his new way of life with this new motley crew. We worked tirelessly and did our best to improve his mobility through water and laser therapy and physical therapy at home. While there was improvement in the beginning, it was no match for Bear’s age. So, he continued to live comfortably with his new siblings, both canine and feline.

Bear’s favorite activities included walking in his wheelchair, soaking up sun while Mom and Dad gardened and barking at most things- especially brother Guinness and the evil vacuum cleaner. He particularly bonded with his black cat brother Roland, and they enjoyed many siestas together. While Bear did not particularly enjoy his ears being rubbed, he did not mind the occasional nibble from his bestie, nor did Roland mind an occasional bath. Bear was always happy to be a part of the fun and eager to please. He absolutely loved snuggling and giving kisses to both Mom and Dad.

Unfortunately, his mobility worsened within the couple months and Bear was no longer able to enjoy his everyday activities or relieve himself. We made the heartbreaking and devasting decision last week to assist Bear to the rainbow bridge. Despite all of his setbacks in the last few years, he never stopped smiling and loving everyone around him. He will be missed immensely. Rest in Peace Lieutenant Barnabus Bear Willoughby Applebottom (his formal nick name from us).

October 2, 2021: Welcome Bear!

Introducing our newest distinguished gentleman, Bear!

Bear has had a rough couple of years, bouncing around between homes and falling behind on veterinary care following his Dad’s death. We’re happy to have him with us in rescue now, to give him the sense of stability and love he needs and help him get on track with his own health. Bear has some mobility issues – possibly linked to IVDD – that make him a bit unsteady on his feet, but despite being on pain medication and anti-inflammatories and needing an occasional lift and/or help from a ramp to get him where he’s going he’s still an active boy who is eager to play. He’s also experiencing discomfort from a skin condition that went untreated for far too long, so we’re helping him heal with antibiotics and medicated baths and will be consulting with a veterinary dermatology specialist soon.

Bear has some alpha tendencies that sometimes make it difficult for him to know how to interact with other dogs, so in addition to addressing his medical issues we’ll be working on giving him the proper socialization he needs to thrive and share his life with other animals. He’s been struggling for a long time and has a long road in front of him, but we’re happy to have him with us and give him a new chance at the good life he deserves.

Welcome to the family, Bear. We love you already!