Photo: Tim Aylen

Potcake star Amigo has died in New York, finally succumbing to a yearlong battle with cancer.  With him at the end, were his ‘human’ Frances Singer-Hayward, and his beloved friend and trainer, Bill Grimmer and wife Claire.

Amigo was first discovered seven years ago by Ms. Hayward as a starving and diseased stray potcake pup whom she rescued and rehabilitated, making him the poster boy/mascot for The Humane Society of Grand Bahama. Chosen as a “Story of the Year” by the Nassau Tribune, Amigo went on to become a media star, promoting the importance of spay/neuter and kindness to animals, becoming the ‘face’ of the Bahamian Potcake in tourist magazines, as an example of the incredible potential of this precious breed, which so many of us take for granted and do not adequately appreciate.

Taking his message abroad, Amigo was chosen by The Humane Society of The United States to represent the BEKIND Campaign. Amigo starred in Mardi Gras parades, received the Hollywood Life Achievement Award, headed a rescue mission to New Orleans, starred in an anti trapping PSA, appeared on CNN and Fox News, to name just a few of his accomplishments, in a tireless effort to raise awareness of the
plight of challenged animals.

Amigo’s disease required amputation of one of his hind legs as well as extensive chemotherapy treatment. He was treated at the world famous Animal Medical Center in New York. With his brave spirit undaunted, he continued his work, starring as Grand Marshall of the 2007 Mardi Gras Parade, the Paws for Style Fashion Event, and the
subject of numerous television spots and magazine articles.

Most recently, as his last effort, Amigo is featured in a Public Service Announcement along with hip-hop impressario Russell Simmons to help stop dog fighting.

“If  because of the awareness raised by this extraordinary little dog, with his infinite sweetness and kind and generous heart, the life of even one animal has somehow been made better, then Amigo’s mission on earth has been fulfilled.” Frances Singer-Hayward

Ms. Hayward urged everyone to honor Amigo’s memory and legacy by living and spreading the ‘gospel of humane-ity’ and “fervently hopes that Grand Bahama residents will to support The Humane Society of Grand Bahama in their utterly tireless and heroic efforts to alleviate animal suffering on Grand Bahama Island.”