Live Like Roo: More Than an Organization — A Promise to Pets & Their People

Who Is Roo & Why the Name Matters

Roo (short for Roosevelt) was a rescue dog discovered at Chicago Animal Care & Control. Soon after being adopted, he was diagnosed with bone cancer. Rather than surrendering to despair, Roo’s family created a “bucket list” full of adventures, treats, and moments to cherish. They vowed to make his remaining days count. 

Though Roo lost his battle, his memory endures through the foundation’s philosophy: live every day as though there is no tomorrow. His spirit guides the work of Live Like Roo, inspiring pet families to find joy, even in difficult times.

Mission & Vision

Mission

Live Like Roo is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to assisting pets and their owners through a cancer diagnosis by providing both financial assistance and emotional support.

Reach & Impact

The foundation is based in Chicago, Illinois, but its reach is nationwide (and beyond)

Since 2016, they’ve awarded over $3 million in grants to families in need. 

Over 30,000+ pets and families have been touched by their services. 

They operate with transparency — for example, their financial breakdown shows ~75% of funds go to veterinary care, 15% to care packages, 5% to events, and 5% to operations/other costs. livelikeroo.org

Through partnerships (such as with Best Friends Animal Society) and a network of advocates, Live Like Roo is part of a larger movement to support pet welfare and health. Best Friends Animal Society

Programs & Services: What Live Like Roo Does

Live Like Roo has several core programs, each tailored to meet a specific need faced by pet families dealing with cancer.

Cancer Care Packages

These are curated comfort kits sent to pets with cancer. They often include items like a handmade blanket, toys, treats, a “bucket list” sheet, and more—meant to uplift both the pet and the owner during a tough season. livelikeroo.org+2livelikeroo.org+2
The cost of these packages is often subsidized; the recipient may only be asked to cover shipping (~$20). livelikeroo.org

Booker Fund

Named after “Booker,” this fund helps pets in the final days or months of life. It may cover hotel stays, special beds, wagons, or “bucket-list” experiences to let the pet and family make cherished memories. livelikeroo.org

Serenity’s Wish

This fund focuses on end-of-life and palliative care, aiding with costs such as hospice consults, euthanasia, cremation, or memorials. It helps families face the inevitable with support, rather than alone. livelikeroo.org

Other Named Funds & Support

Live Like Roo also supports:

Maggie’s FRIENDS — for cats and other non-canine pets

The Cappy Fund — assistance for shelter or rescue animals with cancer

Additional initiatives (e.g. Buddy’s Heroes, The Chris Kohl Fund) livelikeroo.org+2livelikeroo.org+2

Emotional resources and community support, including pet loss forums, grief groups, and educational tools livelikeroo.org+1

How It Works: Application, Review & Support

Application
Pet owners begin by submitting an application via the Live Like Roo website. livelikeroo.org+2livelikeroo.org+2
Applicants must provide medical records confirming a cancer diagnosis (or detailed documentation) as well as estimates or invoices. Pets of the Homeless+2livelikeroo.org+2

Review & Grant Cycles
Applications undergo a monthly grant review process. livelikeroo.org+1
Because demand is high, not all applicants receive full funding—and in some cases, not any funding. livelikeroo.org
The foundation notes that due to volume, they only respond to those approved for grants. livelikeroo.org

Distribution of Aid

Approved applicants may receive monetary grants to assist with veterinary care and treatment costs (e.g. biopsies, chemotherapy). Pets of the Homeless+2livelikeroo.org+2

Care packages are packed and mailed out (often within a few days) livelikeroo.org

For end-of-life support, Serenity’s Wish grants may cover humane euthanasia, cremation, or hospice care. livelikeroo.org+1

Follow-up & Continuity
Once a pet has received a grant, there’s generally no need to reapply; ongoing needs or additional support are handled via communication as needed. livelikeroo.org

Why Live Like Roo Matters

Bridging Gaps: Many pet families cannot afford life-saving treatments or comfort measures. Live Like Roo fills a critical gap.

Emotional Support: Beyond money, the care packages, community, and resources help families feel seen, supported, and less alone.

Dignity in Life & Death: By enabling bucket-list experiences and supporting end-of-life care, Live Like Roo ensures pets can live well — and depart peacefully.

Community & Advocacy: The organization raises awareness about pet cancer, drives dialogue, and encourages more humane, compassionate care in veterinary medicine.

How You Can Help

Donate: Whether a one-time gift or recurring support, donations fund vital services.

Share Their Story: Use social media, your blog, or local networks to raise awareness.

Volunteer: Live Like Roo often needs volunteers for care package assembly, outreach, events, and more.

Partner: Veterinarians, pet brands, and businesses can explore sponsorships, in-kind giving, or cause marketing partnerships (e.g. Live Like Roo’s collab with Farm to Pet, which donates per bag purchased). livelikeroo.org+1

Apply: If your pet needs help, complete the application—the foundation might be the support you need.