Oscar Downing –- affectionately known as ‘The O Man’ –- trotted over the Rainbow Bridge, (his unreliable legs working perfectly for the first time in his life), on February 18, 2025. He was the beloved companion of Ben Downing for 15 years, rescued from a kill shelter in Amelia County. “He rescued me,” Ben is quick to amend. Oscar was six months old, looked like Nick Nolte’s mug shot, had wobbly and impaired back legs, and did not bond with those few potential adopters who looked at him. “He had given up,” Ben said. Their partnership gave them both a new lease, and this inseparable pair went on to adventure after adventure, both in Virginia Beach and on Ocracoke Island. Oscar adored the beach and “driving” Ben’s Japanese mini-truck. He was, in short, the greatest. We loved him dearly, and will miss him forever. Our heartfelt thanks to his friends at Birdneck Animal Hospital for their devoted care.