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Spencer, the beloved Boston Marathon dog known for holding signs and cheering on runners, has died after severe medical challenges.
Source: CBS Boston/Youtube
Spencer, a famous and loved golden retriever known for cheering on Boston Marathon runners, has died at the age of 13. Spencer died after overcoming multiple bouts of cancer, according to a post from his human, Rich Powers.
“We are devastated to share the news of Spencer’s passing. We were loaned and incredible gift in 2009 and we had to return the gift last Friday,” Powers wrote on an Instagram post.
Spencer had overcome some severe medical challenges over recent years and the family thought he might only have a month. However, Spencer was “not ready to give up”. Powers said that with the love and positive energy from hundreds of thousands of fans, he beat the odds and lived another 28 months.
“We have enjoyed sharing our special gift with you all. He has been an inspiration to hundreds of thousands of people. He was an angel on earth. Any who had the good fortune to actually meet him in person can attest that when you touched him he emitted pure energy and light.”
Spencer first went viral in 2018 while holding flags in his mouth that read “Boston Strong” during the annual marathon. During the pandemic, Spencer took a break but returned in 2021 to help rally runners. Before the 2022 marathon, the Boston Athletic Association named Spencer the official dog of the 126th Boston Marathon.
Spencer spent his last day “eating his sweet potato treats, drinking water and enjoying visitors,” according to Instagram.

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