Sugar, the viral surfing dog, has to prepare for one of her final surf sessions.
Ryan Rustan, owner of the rescue dog based in Huntington Beach, California, announced in a Monday, March 2 Instagram post that the 16-year-old dog was diagnosed with cancer.
Sugar is best known for her expert surfing skills. She holds 19 titles, is a five-time World Dog Surf Champion, and became the first animal ever inducted into the Surfers’ Hall of Fame. At the time of Sugar’s induction, Rustan told the crowd, “This is so beautiful for Sugar. This is probably one of the most special days of her life for sure.”
Rustan’s post announcing Sugar’s cancer diagnosis revealed that the surfing dog recently underwent surgery to remove her tumor. He also created a GoFundMe page to help cover medical expenses he has already paid and expects to pay for the rest of her treatment, including veterinary visits, medical equipment, and special food.
He wrote that Sugar “has brought so much joy to so many.” In his Instagram post, he also told local residents that he is planning a “beach day with Sugar” so everyone can “watch her catch her last wave.” He noted that the event would likely take place on March 7 or 8.Rustan later spoke with the local outlet Fox 11 and tearfully said, “She has only maybe a very short time.”
He also celebrated his dog’s accomplishments, calling her the “most decorated surfing dog on the planet.”
“She’s been on the forefront of showing other dogs how to ride a shortboard properly,” he said. “I love her so much. I’m not ready for her to go. But she taught me a lot. She taught me that life’s cool.”In addition to riding waves, Sugar also serves as a therapy dog at the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Long Beach, California.