In his almost 16 years on Earth, a nationally known pup lived far more than his fair share of adventures and good deeds.
Boots, "The Kitten Nanny", passed away at his home in Goodyear on Wednesday, just about a month shy of his 16th birthday. He was in declining health prior to his passing and was surrounded by family and a veterinarian.
In 2005, the Golden Retriever and chow mix was found standing in nearly a foot of water in New Orleans while Hurricane Katrina flooded the area. He was rescued and taken to Arizona where he was nursed back to health and adopted by a shelter volunteer.
In his new role, Boots acted as a nanny for kittens preparing to be adopted into homes with dogs.
"Our hearts are breaking over the loss of our sweet boy," said owner Susan J. Pogue Juergensen. "I hope Boots' fans around the world will remember him by donating to their local animal shelters and by showing compassion and kindness to others. Boots reminded us that there is good in the world. Let's honor him by spreading goodwill."
Juergensen wrote a book at Boots' life for kids called "Boots: Hurricane Katrina Survivor and Kitten Nanny." You can buy the book online.
