I am so sad to report that Walt crossed the Rainbow Bridge early this morning, May 6th, 2010. He was his normal, happy, loving self all day ... and quietly passed away in his sleep during the night. He was sleeping on his bed in the bedroom with us and apparently his heart, so full of life and love, just stopped beating.
It is devestating to lose him, as he brought so much joy and happiness to my life. His abrupt and unexpected passing has left a huge hole in my heart and in my life ... I will miss him every single day.
I am eternally grateful to have been able to save him, and to give him the best 11 months of his life ... he deserved nothing less, and he gave me so very much in return. 


To Walter,

I love you so very much Walt, and I am heartbroken that you are not here with me anymore. Your passing doesn't even seem real to me ... you were just here and so full of life yesterday ...  
I cherish the time and memories we shared ... and I will miss your sweet kisses, your enthusiasm for life, and your never-ending, un-wavering love and loyalty.

I miss you and I love you with all my heart.
Andrea

"They say memories are golden
well maybe that is true.
I never wanted memories,
I only wanted you.

A million times I needed you,
a million times I cried.
If love alone could have saved you
you never would have died.

In life I loved you dearly,
In death I love you still.
In my heart you hold a place
no one could ever fill.

If tears could build a stairway
and heartache make a lane,
I'd walk the path to heaven
and bring you back again."
~ Vicky Holder (by permission)

Please consider donating to "Walt's Fund," a foundation created in his memory to help other rescued animals like him - senior and special needs dogs who, because of their age and/or medical problems, require extensive veterinary care, etc.   Due to the cost associated with providing for these animals, many rescue groups cannot afford their care, and many are euthanized. Walt brought us so much joy and happiness, and he was so grateful for each and every day, that we want to give back in his honor.    These dogs deserve to be saved too... they have so much left to give and so much they can teach us.    Please contact us at newleashrescue@gmail.com with questions and to find out how you can help. Thanks!

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A HUGE "THANK YOU!" TO
VALERIE CAREY
FOR BEING WALT'S GUARDIAN ANGEL!!

Walt is such a gentleman. He came to us after spending the first 12 years of his life with neglectful owners who ultimately abandoned him at a local APL, shockingly skinny and very depressed. What a cruel thing to do Walt after he bestowed them with so many years of love and loyalty. Thankfully, we were able to take him in, and give him the wonderful life that he's never had, but truly deserves!
He does have some health issues - arthritis, epilepsy and mild kidney disease - but we are managing everything medically and he is responding well!