The FIRSTS in our lives always leave a lasting impression. Andre’ was our first official rescue for The Promised Land Dachshund Sanctuary. He came to us from a local kill shelter in July of 2001. They picked him up off the streets. The large picture here is how he looked that first day. Sad eyes, dull coat, skinny and scared.
But Andre’ soon flourished into a handsome, friendly, funny leader. He was gorgeous. His coat turned to a rich glossy red, and his face and body filled out with muscle and attitude. He loved to be silly and Rick adored that about him. You can see them in action in that second photo with Andre’s collar around his ears. He knew he made us laugh and it gave him great joy.
As our population at the sanctuary grew, Andre’ recruited several friends to join his “Rat Pack”. He instigated the fun as you can see in the middle picture and everyone followed his lead. They wrestled and played for hours each day, and never grew tired of the friendship they forged.
Andre’ outlived his “Rat Pack” to watch over 250 dogs come through our doors. His wisdom and his leadership touched each of these precious souls, and no one doubted his spot as the Alpha Male.
As the years passed Andre’ enjoyed excellent health. He suffered some back issues in his sixth year but crate rest helped him heal and soon he was leading the charge in the yard once again.
The years turned his coat to gray, and his step lost its bounce, but Andre’ retained the seniority that he earned at the sanctuary during his fifteen years here with us.
This last week Andre’ took a turn for the worse and it became apparent that his time with us grew short. Doc Jess (our wonderful Vet) said his kidneys were failing him and we began to try to convince our hearts that we would soon have to say our goodbyes to our sweet little man.
Last night at 2:30, Andre’ crossed the rainbow bridge and took a huge piece of our heart and our history with him. We shall always remember him as not only our first, but our Alpha. He taught us the joy of watching our little ones flourish and regain their self-esteem and their joy. We will always love you Andre’! And we will never forget!
RIP our precious little heart! Your “Rat Pack” awaits you at the bridge.
The Promised Land Dachshund Sanctuary 
What an amazing life she had with you! RIP sweet one.
-Sandie
LikeLike
Andre’ was truly a one of a kind for us. His legacy will live on in our sanctuary and his memories will forever remain in our hearts.
LikeLike
Beautiful… Rest In Peace Andre`
LikeLike
Rest In Peace… Sweet Andre`
LikeLike
Thank you Dee. We feel very honored to have the support we have received today. Our pain will not endure for nearly as long as Andre’s legacy at the sanctuary!
LikeLike
We came over from FB as we didn’t know you had a blog also.
Rest with the angels sweet one.
Hugs,
Lily Belle & Muffin
LikeLike
Thank you Lily Belle and Muffin. The love coming from our supporters today will indeed help our hearts to heal.
LikeLike
As I read this very touching tribute to Andre, I am reminded of my special angel dog, Archie. We rescued him from a life of living in a small kennel in a pet store. We were told he had a serious heart murmur and wasn’t expected to live a month. I quickly signed a waiver, took him home and loved him up. The month turned into 4 years. He was my friend, my confidante, my heart. We say we rescued him, but, I really think he rescued us. I’d like to think your Andre is now with my Archie playing together and trading stories.
LikeLike
Thank you Wendy. We can certainly feel the love from all of our supporters today. Your story of Archie and the love you shared is very special and I know it brings you peace to know you loved him with everything you had.
LikeLike
My heart breaks for you. I know how it feels to lose a doxie fur baby. It’s been nine months since I lost my baby girl Delilah, and I still ache for her warm little body next to mine. I pray you find comfort and peace at this time, and God bless you for the beautiful work you do for these amazing little pups.
LikeLike
Thank you Amy. We appreciate your prayers and support. Andre’ will always be a part of us and a part of the history of our sanctuary. I’m sorry to hear that you lost your precious Delilah. I’m sure she was a lucky lady to have had your love.
LikeLike
What a wonderful, unforgettable life Andre’ had with you two. Wishing you comfort now and in the future from your many memories of him.
LikeLike
Thank you Diane. It has been a tough couple of days but we know we did our best for Andre’ and his sweet memory will forever be a part of our sanctuary.
LikeLike
I am so sorry for your loss. You can hear in your stories of him how much he was loved. I pray that you find peace and that your heart heals swiftly. Someday, I hope that all of us can be reunited with our babies across the rainbow bridge. ❤️
LikeLike
Thank you Christina. Andre’ was and will forever be a special part of our sanctuary and its history. I too, believe we will be reunited with our babies someday. Thank you so much for your prayers and support. It means a lot to us!
LikeLike
RIP sweet Andre. You will be missed. Ove you, love, love you.
LikeLike
Thank you for your sweet post Erika!
LikeLike
it is always heartbreaking when we loose one of our loved fur babys,but i know they will aways live in our hearts.RIP sweet Andre i know you will be dearly missed
LikeLike
Thank you!
LikeLike
wow 15 years of bliss!RIP Andre our Hearts break a little each time we loose a loved fur baby!but i know they will always be with you in that special place! so sorry for your loss. you are amazing in what you do!
LikeLike
Thank you Astrid! We love taking care of these babies!
LikeLike