A Heartwarming Tribute to Spencer and Penny
A group of golden retrievers participated in a touching tribute to the beloved Boston Marathon dogs, Spencer and Penny, who passed away due to cancer earlier this year. The Massachusetts Golden Meetups group organized an event where hundreds of dogs gathered at Boston Common, crossing the finish line in honor of Spencer and Penny.
Richard Powers, Spencer and Penny’s owner, also joined the event with a photo of his two late dogs, who had become an iconic symbol of the Boston Marathon. He expressed his gratitude towards those who made it possible to honor their memory through the golden retrievers’ gathering.
A Moment of Silence for Spencer and Penny
The community also held a moment of silence for Spencer and Penny, a tribute that touched many hearts. Richard Powers spoke about how the dogs had affected millions of people worldwide and raised over $30,000 for canine cancer research. The tribute aims to raise awareness about the disease that took away both dogs’ lives while honoring their unique contribution to the Boston Marathon.
Golden Strong
The golden retrievers were wearing bandanas with “Golden Strong” inscribed in honor of Spencer’s famous “Boston Strong” flag. The bandanas were sold as part of fundraising efforts for canine cancer research by Morris Animal Foundation. Alongside raising $1,000 for their cause under Spencer and Penny’s name, part of the proceeds from these bandanas also went towards Morris Animal Foundation.
Gathering Near Finish Line
A smaller group of golden retrievers also gathered near the finish line grabbing all attention with their friendly demeanor as marathoners stopped by to give them love and praise. During this time, Powers stood at his usual spot with signs honoring his dogs’ memory.
Creating Legacy for Spencer
Powers is currently working with local officials to put up a statue of Spencer along the Marathon route in Ashland, where he had cheered on runners since 2014. A turnout of hundreds of dogs and people gathered at the event was a testament to Spencer’s popularity and his positive energy, which continues to inspire many.
Conclusion
The tribute to Spencer and Penny not only shows the unique connection between dogs and humans but also raises awareness around canine cancer. The Golden retriever community’s efforts to create a lasting memory for Spencer are commendable, showing that even after their passing, they continue to spread their warmth and love.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons