OATMEAL
Neutered Male
DOB: Born in 2012 (approximate)

FOSTER UPDATE - August 11, 2025

It is with deep sorrow that I announce the sudden passing of our most recent foster dog, Oatmeal (formerly known as Otis). On Thursday, his foster family came home to find that Oatmeal was suddenly quite sick. He had a copious amount of diarrhea and was drinking a lot of water. Foster mom notified us and kept an eye on him all day Friday and Saturday. He appeared to be rallying, but on Saturday evening, he became very lethargic, so she took him to the emergency clinic. At intake, they determined his vitals were good but when they did an ultrasound, they found a large hemangiosarcoma around his spleen, ready to burst. This development was a shock to us all as he had had a good check-up at the regular vet clinic in mid-June and had no symptoms of any trouble until Thursday. The hemangiosarcoma had grown very rapidly, according to the emergency vet who saw him.

 

Hemangiosarcoma is a rapidly growing, highly malignant cancer which causes blood vessels to branch, fragment, become leaky and ultimately rupture. It can quickly metastasize to other parts of the body such as the lungs. There is no cure. As was the case with Oatmeal, there are rarely any early warning signs and onset is sudden. Fortunately, this cancer causes no pain or discomfort until a rupture occurs.

 

Late on Saturday night, we made the decision to let Oatmeal go peacefully in the arms of his loving foster mom. She said he was a delight to foster and a great source of love and laughter in their household. He will be missed. Run free, sweet little man.

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FOSTER UPDATE - JULY 16, 2025

Oatmeal might not have a lot of breaking news to report, but don’t let that fool you—he’s been keeping busy and keeping his foster mom on her toes! 🐾

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In recent weeks, Oatmeal’s personality has really started to shine ✨. Whether this is his true self emerging or just a new chapter of pug mischief, we’re here for it. He’s become delightfully spunky, with some signature Oatmeal flair:

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• He insists on his morning snuggle 🛏️—after spending the night snoozing on the floor, he now demands a lift onto the bed at dawn (delaying the 5:10 am bathroom break by a few precious cuddly minutes 🐶💤).
   

• He’s taken up closet spelunking as a hobby. He somehow breaks into the bedroom closet, then closes the door behind him 🚪, leaving his foster mom to play a daily round of “Where’s Oatmeal?” (The jump scare is real! 😱)
   

• When he naps, he does it with such dramatic stillness he resembles a little pile of roadkill 😴—alarming and adorable all at once.
   

• He still hasn’t barked, but he’s mastered the art of the squeak 🎾 to make his many demands known. A very polite, if persistent, negotiator.
   

• In the yard, he moves at a glacial pace… until he suddenly bolts toward the pool 🐕💨💦. (Yes, he swims. Quite well, in fact. Surprise! 🏊‍♂️)
   

Oatmeal is truly a character and has become a source of laughter and love in his foster home 💛. His foster mom is happy to report that he no longer thinks she’s the devil—progress! 😇

Stay tuned for more from this pint-sized pug of mystery and mischief. 🕵️‍♂️🐾

 

FOSTER UPDATE - JUNE 16, 2025

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Oatmeal has now had some time to settle into his foster home, and we’re happy to report that this charming senior gent is doing really well. He recently visited the vet for a full check-up, where it was confirmed—yes, he’s definitely a senior citizen—but otherwise appears to be in good health. He was a champ for his rabies vaccine and had no issues post-appointment.

 

Oatmeal is embracing the golden years in style. He enjoys long, luxurious naps, brief strolls, and the occasional accidental adventure into the closet (where he somehow keeps locking himself in). His mobility is a bit limited—he can manage going up the stairs, but not down—so his foster mom is helping him shed a few pounds to support his joints and keep him feeling his best.

 

While Oatmeal doesn’t bark, he’s a master communicator. He lets his foster mom know what he needs with a very specific (and slightly judgy) whine. Whether it’s a drink of water, a potty break, or just a quick check to make sure his foster mom is still paying attention, he makes sure his voice is heard. He also keeps a strict morning schedule: 5:10 AM is outdoor time, thank you very much.

 

We suspect this early hour was part of his previous routine, and Oatmeal is nothing if not consistent. This sweet little man may be old, but he knows what he wants—and he’s not afraid to tell you. We’re so glad he’s safe and loved in foster care while we continue to assess what kind of support he’ll need long-term. Way to go, Oatmeal!

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INTRODUCTION - JUNE 1, 2025

Welcome, Oatmeal! We’re thrilled to introduce Oatmeal, a sweet senior Chug (Pug/Chihuahua mix) who recently joined the Pugalug family.

 

At approximately 13–14 years old, Oatmeal came into rescue after a change in his previous family’s circumstances. Although it was a heartbreaking decision, his caregivers wanted the very best for him in his golden years, and we’re honoured to take over his care. Now settling into his foster home, Oatmeal is showing himself to be a gentle soul who enjoys good food, quiet naps, and the company of his new companions (even if he's still warming up to the resident cat!).

 

He’s eating well, sleeping soundly, and exploring the yard with quiet enthusiasm. His foster mom describes him as “a very lovely older man who seems to be content to just hang out with us.” Like many seniors, Oatmeal is adjusting to a big life change, and we’re giving him all the time he needs to settle in and let his personality shine. He’ll soon have a full vet check so we can better understand his health needs and determine what kind of support he may require moving forward.

 

Welcome Oatmeal. We’re so glad you’re here. ❤️