On November 22, 2011, a tiny, rather scruffy, black and tan dachshund gained his wings. That little dog was WENDAL, the inspiration for our rescue. You see, in 2009 Wendal escaped from a horrifying life as a bait dog for pitbull fighting. He came into rescue emaciated, severely malnourished, with an enlarged heart, almost no teeth, and mobility issues due to a previously fractured pelvis from being kicked about like a football. Through a serendipitous series of events, he arrived into our chair, Paula Romanow’s care. It was instant love, at least on her part. Wen took a little time to make up his mind! But with a lot of love and care, proper food, medication, supplements, chiropractic treatments, and lots of vet visits, this scruffy little waif turned into the kindest, sweetest, little spark of joy. Sadly he was only given two more years before all his health challenges caught up with him, but he lived those last years to the fullest. On that cold November day twelve years ago today, he was tired and ready to go, and slipped peacefully away safe in Paula’s arms (if you’d like to read more about Wendal’s journey, here is a link to his page on our website https://wenswaydoxrescue.com/wendals-story/ ).
We feel that Wendal’s life embodies what our new rescue is all about – helping all dachshunds in need, but especially those whose medical and emotional challenges are greatest. And so we honoured him by naming our rescue in his memory. His story – and life – are our constant reminder of why we do what we do, and who we do it for.
We have decided to mark Wendal’s life by making November 22nd an annual memorial celebration for all the pets who have passed, especially those in the last year. We are asking our supporters to consider making a donation to Wendal’s Way in memory of your own pet, or the pet of a loved one. Every penny of donations goes to helping pay the vet bills of our dogs in care – what better way to remember those who have passed than with helping those still here to have a better life?