Spencer is a local celebrity in Boston, every year Spencer it there to show support for Boston’s most famous race of the year. Spencer is an emotional support dog that can be found sitting on the sidelines every year with his owner Mr. Powers. Spencer is there each year for one reason; to encourage runners and give them encouragement as they run by.
This year Spencer was posted up between mile 2.5 and mile 4 holding his sign “Boston Strong” sporting his yellow raincoat during the soggy race this year.
Spencer’s sister, Penny, often joins him on the sidelines, but she doesn’t enjoy the rain. So it seems this year, like the last, Spencer is cheering on runners alone.
In 2018, Powers’ video of the pup in his raincoat received more than 2 million views. “We were there to motivate. And judging by the faces we saw running, it was a success,” Powers told Inside Edition after last year’s race.
This is Spencer’s third year attending the race and with each race his popularity continues to grow. Runners commented on Powers’ Facebook posts ahead of this year’s marathon, many saying they couldn’t wait to spot Spencer on the sidelines.
“I will be running it on Monday and I will try to find you to get a picture with your dogs. Thanks for cheering us runners on!” one woman wrote. “Best cheerleaders ever!” another commented.
Therapy dogs Spencer and Penny also visit local schools and hospitals to provide support, according to Powers’ Facebook.
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What type of training must this type of service dog have. Where can they be traned and is there a testing process.
Our thoughts, prayers and emotions are with you and your family during this Sad and Emotional time. We to have recently lost our 2nd Golden to Cancer, and have followed your proud and sad story during Penny and Spencer’s highs and lows. We will miss the smile and wagging tale as we follow the race on TV. Happy memories of two beautiful Goldens.