Lita’s Wish

In March of 2015, the path of a street dog in Houston changed forever. On a tour of a notorious dumping ground known as the "Corridor of Cruelty," her future family spotted her. She had been living in a park for over a month, surviving on her own. Within weeks, she was rescued, vetted, and on her way to Wisconsin. The original plan for Lita was simple: a loving home and some basic obedience classes. But Lita had other ideas. She excelled in every challenge set before her, from mastering obedience to showing an incredible depth of compassion for people. It quickly became clear that she was meant for much bigger things.

After flying through multiple levels of training, Lita earned her AKC Canine Good Citizen certification and passed her therapy dog test. She became an on-staff volunteer with Rainbow Hospice, spending countless hours comforting those in their final days. Over the years, she worked in memory care facilities, visited schools, libraries, farmers' markets, daycare centers, businesses, and more, serving as a loving ambassador for her breed and a source of comfort for everyone she met.

In 2025, during a routine vet visit, Lita was diagnosed with an aggressive form of lymphoma. Her family made her one promise: instead of waiting sadly for the end, they would give the most extraordinary dog the most extraordinary ending.

And so, "Lita's Wish" was born — a bucket list filled with adventures.

From boat rides and plane rides to honorary therapy visits, beach trips, and more, Lita's final chapter has been written with love, joy, and the company of friends, family, and her many followers. Now, Lita's Wish has become a way to help others walking the same difficult journey. In Lita's honor and memory, Czar's Promise will provide bucket list ideas, resources, and help any family who wishes — and any dog who is able — create the most beautiful ending possible, celebrating joy and love in their final days together.

Lita's life is a testament to resilience, compassion, and the incredible bond between a dog and her people. She has touched countless lives , and through Lita's Wish, her legacy will continue to bring comfort, hope, and joy to others.

Click here to download a PDF listing activities to do with your pet.

Pet Friendly Places to Shop:

Pet Friendly Restaurants:

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Pet Friendly Services:

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List PDF

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Woof & Meow Packs

Want to help a dog (and family) in need? Here is how you can help with our Woof & Meow Packs.

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Our Events

Learn more about our events and what we do with our fundraising money – keeping it local for the most impact.

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Get Involved

We are a volunteer organization that supports canine cancer and research. Learn how you can get involved.

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Resources

Links for support group information, as well as books and articles on anticipating the loss of your pet, and other resources.

CZAR'S PROMISE

It began as a love story; the attraction, immediate. In 2001, a small white fluffball with an infectious smile that had me at "hello", came bounding full steam ahead and into my arms; and yes, that was all it took.

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If you're reading this, you are most likely a dog lover! These images are photos of Czar’s Promise fun filled events, as well as photos of our Canine Cancer Crew, beloved canines who have had their own battle with cancer. Shown here is Gobi.

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Czar's Promise Mission

Inspiring Hope. Funding Research.

Our mission, the first in our country with three key areas of impact, is a unique approach to helping companion animals in their cancer journey, while funding companion animal and pediatric cancer research to help find a cure.

Financial, educational and emotional support for families whose canines and felines have been diagnosed with cancer and receiving treatment

Grant funding for pediatric cancer research at UW Health Kids – American Family Children’s Hospital, Madison, WI

Grant funding for companion animal cancer research at University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, WI

 

Czar's Promise is a 501 (c)(3) organization, #47-2163857

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Czar posing in front of the state Capitol in downtown Madison, Wisconsin

Czar’s Promise
PO Box 5061
Madison, WI 53705
(608) 235-7269

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