Prince Casper, Earl of Dorkshire

July 6th, 2024 (adoption day at 10+ years old) - March 19th, 2026 

I have been so incredibly blessed to have had two soul dogs in my life; Casper and Scout.

My Prince went home March 19th, 2026. 

Casper came into my life shortly after My Scout went home June 29, 2024. The time we had together was too short—My Scout was only 6 years old.  I am thankful for every moment he shared with me, that he was my anchor and soul dog.  I miss him still. 

My daughter showed me Casper, a rescue from SCAAR while we were at the emergency with Scout.  His “bio” had him listed as “Fozzie” age 10+years.  Casper/Fozzie had some lumps and bumps (gingival hyperplasia as well as a growth on his chest). After Scout, My Sunshine, left me I found myself constantly revisiting Casper/Fozzie’s bio on SCAAR.  I decided to apply to adopt Casper/Fozzie (I was thinking I would not be considered as I had just lost my own dog).  Well was I surprised !  I was approved and invited to go meet Casper/Fozzie.  

The day before the “meet and greet” I was missing My Scout and feeling guilt at the very real possibility of bringing home another dog so soon.  Walking home from work I remembered a conversation I had had with My Scout.  “You have big shoes to fill”, I told him.  The very next thought was this:  “Scout never filled Buddy’s shoes, Pam.  Scout filled his own shoes and he has taken them home; now it is time for this dog to fill his shoes.” I could do this. 

It was the next day that I walked up to meet Casper, he looked up at me, took two steps towards me and placed his paws gently on either of my shoulders.  He chose me.  The dog-foster told me that Casper/Fozzie had been let down by many no shows and the family that did show up the week before she had refused to let Casper go with; she had a “gut feeling”!  I now knew that it was because Casper was waiting for me: he was meant for me.  I took Casper home and he became my Prince.  Prince Casper. 💙

The Foster had discovered that Casper was his given name not the name the rescue had given him (Fozzie).  He became Prince Casper Earl of Dorkshire!   He always was with me, slept upstairs and waited patiently for me every morning as I got ready.  The month before he left My Prince gifted me with getting into the play position and talking to me (unusual for him), and being “sassy” with his “old man bark”.  He was always excited for his meals and going on his “jiggy-jogs”.  The day he wouldn’t come upstairs to bed with myself and the other dogs I knew.  In the morning I got down on the floor and looked into his eyes and whispered, “It’s time isn’t it?”, as he looked at me I knew he was saying’ “Yes”. 

Casper gave me so much in just a year and a bit.  I knew I wouldn’t have him long but in this time he helped heal my heart, he was a gift.  He filled his shoes completely and has taken them home to show My Scout and Buddy.  It was such an honour to be able to be with him every step of the way over the beautiful, rainbow bridge.  He has taken his shoes home. 

There is a legend that talks about dogs with two different coloured eyes.  “These dogs walk between the spirit realm and the physical realm.”  Casper’s eyes were each a mix of brown and blue. He walked between to realms.  He has now gone home.  “Thank you My Prince for loving me.  I miss you...”

My mom asked me if I would continue to adopt  seniors,  “Absolutely!!!!” Although the time together is beyond short, it is so worth the gifts of selflessness these Regal Souls bring to my life.  Thank you Dr. Erica for your kindness and gentle nature.  Thank you for allowing me to be with my Prince as he took his shoes home.