The Dash Watson family is saddened to report that Dash left this world and reported to Rainbow Bridge in the early morning hours of December 5, 2024. He died peacefully, in his mom’s arms, wrapped in his favorite blanket that she knit for him.
Dash was born on November 16, 2012, in Scottsdale, Arizona, part of a litter of five boys. His official AKC name was Spice Rack Divine Dash but later earned the nickname “The Wonder Dog”. He was adopted by Alan and Suzanne Watson on February 3, 2013, which also happened to be Super Bowl Sunday, with the 49ers playing the Baltimore Ravens. To commemorate the special day, Dash was outfitted with a 49er collar. It didn’t matter – the 49ers lost. The fact that Suzanne, a life-long Niner fan, let that roll off her back offered a glimpse into how much Dash would change their priorities and their lives.
Dash was educated at PetSmart (he said it was the Harvard of dog training) and received his degree in Canine Good Citizen. He promptly leveraged his education by going to work for Pets on Wheels in Scottsdale where his chief assignment was to visit the Care Center at Vi Silverstone each week. He was roundly loved by all who encountered him, from former TV host Hugh Downs to a WWII veteran who looked forward to snuggles with Dash, while recounting his 50+ missions over Europe. Dash’s bag of tricks included his ability to twist, turn, lie down and give paw. His routine brought smiles and delight to the residents, who never tired of seeing his act, no matter how repetitive it was. After three years of work Dash decided to take early retirement.
In retirement Dash loved to accompany his parents everywhere, from Sunday brunches at their favorite restaurant to long car drives to Sun Valley, Idaho and Mammoth Lakes, California. He particularly enjoyed Sun Valley, where he charmed everyone he met and remembered from year to year which stores offered dog treats. Dash’s hobbies included sleeping, eating, begging for treats, and looking cute. His true passion was lying on the couch. Alan, who resisted getting a dog for 25 years, was smitten with Dash from Day One. He loved having a buddy to keep him company, insisted on being the one to feed him, and against all previous promises and agreements, brought him into bed each night. You could always find Dash and Alan on the couch, sitting hip to hip. This ability to turn Alan into mush is what gained Dash his nickname of “The Wonder Dog”.
Later in life Dash’s main job was taking care of Suzanne. In part this entailed pouncing on her at the crack of dawn each day and giving her face a good licking. Not an easy job, but he was up to the task. He tolerated it when she nestled into his fur each night at bedtime to regale him with a recap of their day together. He was always a true and loyal companion and brightened her life in immeasurable ways. He lived up to the reputation of Cavaliers being the “comfort Spaniels” over this past year.
In the end, he was struck down by heart disease and cancer. Even a “wonder dog” couldn’t overcome these two diseases. He was predeceased by his father, Alan. It is now strongly believed they are sitting together on a couch, hip-to-hip, with Alan once again explaining the finer points of hockey to Dash. He is survived by his devastated mom, Suzanne, but will always be curled up in a corner of her heart.
Contributions in Dash’s name should be made to your dog of choice in the form of A-level treats, extra belly rubs, unlimited toys and quiet moments enjoying the best company known to man.
Rest in Peace, Dash the Wonder Dog. You were truly the best boy.
Suzanne, so sorry to hear about the loss of Dash. Our prayers are with you as you have had two losses close together. Hang in there! Sue and John
Thanks, Sue. I appreciate your note. Wishing you and John and very happy holiday season.
Oh, Suzanne! I’m SO sorry for your loss of this WONDERful partner ! But — typically YOU — a beautiful tribute!
Thanks, Arno. He really was a wonderful companion, who I will miss terribly. I hope you have a happy and healthy 2025.
So sorry to hear of the demise of Dash. As parents of pets, I know that feeling well. Just remember, you will be seeing him again. God bless.
Thanks, Burt. Yes, I’m comforted knowing he’s now with my husband and that someday I’ll rejoin them.
Best to you over this holiday season.
Hi Suzanne
I’m so sorry to hear of Dash the wonder dog’s passing. I loved hearing about his adventures. We have a King Charles Cavalier who is 3 years old named Poppy. She is sweet. Stories about Dash helped us decide to get a Cavalier. My husband who didn’t particularly like dogs, loves to stroke and pet Poppy. Thank you for your stories about Dash! Alyce
Alyce, thank you so much for telling me about your Cavalier. I’m so glad that in some way Dash influenced your decision to get one. Funny how the men who think they never want a dog end up being complete saps!
Wishing you and your family – including Poppy – a very happy holiday season.
We love you Door Dash! Thank you for all your help at Vi at Silverstone Care Center. Remembered by families and the staff. Thank you for your service!
He loved it, as you know. But I think his favorite part was coming around the desk to see what kind of treats you were offering up. ; )
Losing a treasured pet is one of life’s saddest experiences. RIP Dash, you were loved, which is a sign that you were a wonderful boy.
Thanks, John. He really was a wonderful boy and treasured companion.
Sad, heartwarming, wonderfully written. All dogs go to heaven. Thanks for sharing, condolences to all that knew the wonder dog.
Thank you so much, Carl. He really was a special dog. Your comment reminded me of the Mark Twain quote: “Heaven goes by favor. If it went by merit, you would stay out and your dog would go in.”
🥲Such a beautiful remembrance of Dash.
Heartbreaking, but what a wonderful life you gave to the wonderful dog.
Rest in Peace Dash. You will be sooo missed.
💔
Thanks, T. I will miss him forever. xo
I am crying. Dash was such a joy in your lives and will be forever missed
Thanks, Pam. He brought us so my happiness and joy over the years. I like to think he’s sitting on Al’s lap again – content as can be.
Oh Suzanne, so very sorry for this immense loss. Dash was such a beautiful boy…I know you will miss him very very much. Sending you hugs…
Lisa
Thanks, Lisa. He really was a special dog. xo
Oh no I’m so sorry to hear that. He was a sweet dog!🐶
Thanks, Deb. He really was a sweet boy.
Suzanne, such a beautiful tribute to Dash. He was such a beauty and I know he was such a comfort to you after losing Alan. Now they’re together again. Maybe that’s a tiny bit of comfort. I am so very sorry for your loss. Big hugs.
Margie
Thanks, Margie. Yes – it is VERY comforting to think of them together again. They so adored each other. xo
Suzanne, I know how much you adored your little Dash; the most perfect companion. I am thinking of you with love as you transition to his passing.
Thanks, D. He really was the perfect companion. xoxo
Oh, Suzanne – I cried when I read this and my tears continue..
I remember meeting Dash when he was very new to your family. You, Bev and maybe Jude and I were having lunch inOld Scottsdale.. Mark was picking me up and Alan and Dash were picking you up. He was a precious baby.
My heart aches for you. We send love and prayers.
What a good boy!
Thanks, Janet. I remember that day – he was so little! Losing a pet is always hard, as you well know.
Happy holidays to you and Mr. Wonderful. xo
Suzanne, I am so sorry to hear of Dash crossing over the bridge but glad he and Alan will be together again.
Hugs to You!
Deb
Thanks, Deb. Their reunion is what keeps me going.
Wishing you a very merry Christmas and a happy 2025. xo
Suz, my heart is broken for you. 💔 Dash, The Wonder Dog, was one in a million. I loved seeing his darling face in your posts. They’re worth every year we cry for them, times a million, but losing them is life changing. I will keep you, Alan and Dash in my heart and prayers. ❤️🙏
Thanks, Marie. Yes, always hard to lose such a loving companion. But I was lucky to have him for 12 years.
Best to you and your family – hope you have a wonderful Christmas. xo
So sorry for the loss of your little buddy. He is absolutely plopped on the couch with Alan scratching his ears.
Thanks so much for your comment, Dave. That’s exactly how I like to think of them.
RIP Dash. I am glad I got to meet you💕
I’m glad you got to meet him too! xo
Oh Suzanne… truly the best eulogy representing, dear Dash….Your “voice” and love truly are strong…what a treasured family member.
Hugs,
Pat
Thanks, Pat. He was a very special dog. xo