April Dotzour
Madison, WI
— April, a 5 ½ year-old golden retriever, died on May 22, 2006.
Her sunny disposition didn’t keep her safe from cancer, and it was fibrosarcoma of the upper jaw that led to her death. April was born on October, 18 2000 at a kennel in Michigan. She was adopted into the hearts and home of Althea and Bryan Dotzour on June 18, 2002.
April participated in a wide variety of activities including obedience and agility classes. While she never really go the hang of running an agility course (she just liked to tear around the equipment), she did receive the AKC Canine Good Citizen award for her good behavior. In 2003, April passed a series of tests and became a registered therapy dog through Therapaws of Michigan and Therapy Dogs, Inc. April and Althea visited the University of Michigan’s pediatric physical therapy and cardiology units weekly where April spread happy dog vibes to sick and sad patients and their families. It was amazing the way people’s faces lit up when April came into the room. Her favorite activity was catching balls for children who were working to develop arm mobility and strength. In doing physical therapy, April made a positive impact in many peoples’ lives.
April’s favorite activities included eating, chasing balls at the dog park with her dad, running “crazies” around in the yard, and exuberantly greeting friends. She spent many happy hours cuddling or being pet by those who loved her. April’s heart was made ecstatic by many of her human and canine friends who will sorely miss her alert, welcoming face.
A retrospective of photos of April is available online.
Survivors include her mom and dad, Althea and Bryan; her boy, Andrew; and her fellow feline fur-faces, Bowser and Spooky. We are all so sad to see her go. A dogwood will be planted at the Dotzour home in honor and celebration of April’s beautiful spirit. In lieu of flowers, give your favorite pet or person a big hug.
“Happiness makes up in height for what it lacks in
length.” ~ Robert Frost