Rose

At Semper K9 Assistance Dogs, every service dog’s name carries a story of honor, resilience, and service. Rose, one of our newest service dogs in training donated by Graystone Retrievers, is named in memory of Semper K9 donor, the beloved Betty White—an icon known not only for her comedic brilliance but also for her dedication to service during World War II. Inspired by both her real-life contributions and her unforgettable character Rose Nylund from The Golden Girls, this name serves as a tribute to Betty White’s legacy of kindness, strength, and compassion.

Before Betty White became a household name, she answered a different kind of call—the call to serve during World War II. Like many women of her generation, she put her dreams on hold to support the war effort, joining the American Women’s Voluntary Services (AWVS) alongside fellow actresses like Joan Crawford and Hattie McDonald.

In her role, Betty donned an Army uniform and took on tasks critical to the home front, including delivering messages and supplies, driving military transport trucks, and working in canteens to support the troops. But true to her nature, Betty’s service went beyond logistics. When night fell, she brought joy to soldiers heading overseas—dancing, sharing laughs, and lifting spirits, if only for a brief moment, before they faced the uncertainties of war.

After the war, Betty briefly married an Air Force veteran before realizing her passion for entertainment couldn’t be contained. She returned to Hollywood, where she built an extraordinary career as an actress, activist, and comedienne, becoming one of America’s most cherished icons. Despite her fame, she never forgot the importance of service, compassion, and bringing people together—values that align perfectly with Semper K9’s mission.

Betty White’s passing on December 31, 2021, marked the loss of an extraordinary soul, but her influence continues to inspire millions around the world. By naming this service dog Rose, we honor not just her iconic role in The Golden Girls but her real-life dedication to serving others—both in and out of uniform.

We are incredibly proud to have Rose as part of the Semper K9 family, carrying forward Betty White’s legacy of compassion, service, and a heart full of gold. Through her training and future service, Rose will embody the spirit of a woman who taught us all the importance of kindness, laughter, and never underestimating the power of a good friend—or in this case, a good dog.