MemorialsIf you would like to submit a story about a beloved pet, please email Austin Boxer Rescue at: webmaster@austinboxerrescue.com.
Ivan I was so blessed in March of 2008 when Ivan came to be part of my family. I found him through y'all (Austin boxer rescue) online and drove to Austin from Bryan to pick him up. From the moment I picked him up he never left my side. He loved playing soccer with my son and and most of all he loved snuggling on the couch with me. He was very special and loved very much. here
Max I remember the first day we met. He was a very hansom animal, but was extremely scared and wouldn't even let me near him. I remember the night he took part of my lip, and the terror in his eyes immediately after he did it. He was scared because he came from a horrible existence and had no trust. After that we learned to trust each other because it was the only way he would get to live. I remember him greeting me every day with a wiggling butt and a happy smile on is face. I remember us running around the yard-playing chase. I remember everything we did together. I remember all of it. This morning Max and I took our last truck ride together. He had been declining over several months. This morning he told us that he was ready to go. We loaded into the car with the last bit of energy he had. He lay in my lap the whole way there and placed his head in my hands like so many times before. Today Max left an old empty shell behind on a journey to a new life, but he did not leave alone. He took a piece of my heart with him. He will keep it with him until we meet again. I will see you again soon my sweet boy. I will know you because from your smile and the piece of my heart that you have next to yours. Some of you will say “it’s just a dog man, get over it.” I am sad for you, because you will never know the love and happiness that I shared with my friend.
Buddy For those that still don't know and I guess some still don't, we lost Buddy our oldest boxer this week, Tuesday. We decided it was time to let him go. We put him down - put him to sleep - let him go - whichever is the right way to say it - whatever way , he is gone. It's not going to ever be easy to talk about. I'm still upset so please, if you see me, don't ask me about it b/c I won't be able to talk about it without crying. I don't know if I ever will be able to so I will write about it now and can refer to it here if anyone needs me to. I can't sleep and have been going over it in my head and keep thinking and wondering "what if" a lot. For those that don't know about Buddy, he was our 14 (we think) year old Austin Boxer Rescue we got in May 2006 (about 2 weeks after Rocky our white boxer died). They didn't know how old he was for sure since he was found on the streets eating out of trash cans. We had to put a pad lock on ours since he figured out how to get past the baby proof locks easily. :) He was one smart cookie. He had the worst case of separation anxiety a dog could have. He didn't mind being in a closed room as long as I was in there with him. He didn't want Mike or Jaxi - it had to be me. :) So it was tough when he and D.Bo decided it was one of them in charge as the Alpha Male of our household and fought (maybe to the death) back in 2009, and we had to keep them separated from that point on. But we managed as we always seem to do. In 2011, when Buddy started "marking" the carpet with squirrly q's like he was writing his name, we started worrying. And then he started slipping on one of his back legs sometimes while walking. Asking the vet about it, he mentioned it might be a sign of something. What was happening was a sign of a pinched nerve to the back end causing him to lose feeling to the pee parts and the legs. It might have been due to vertebrae squeezing the nerve or a tumor, but without an MRI, we'd never know for sure. Since he was over 13 surgery and recovery would be too hard on him and no guarantees and so expensive, we didn't go that route. He was happy and no pain otherwise. Just slower and having a few more accidents in the house but we dealt with it. We tried cold laser therapy to stimulate the circulation to see if feeling would come back but it didn't work. So we helped him get around the slick spots with a leash/towel under his pelvic area to lift his bottom and he dragged his legs like a seal over the carpet mostly. He got around pretty quick when he wanted to get somewhere and his personality never changed and neither did his appetite! In January 2012 we built him a ramp. He started having some trouble getting over the patio door jamb. He had some scraped up legs. We tried some doggie male wraps - lots of towels and lots of accidents. Some people might have gotten frustrated at that point with having to deal with all the accidents or having to help him out and might have put him down then. July of 2012, I started looking into our options - how much it cost - what they did, cremating, burial, etc. I still couldn't do it though b/c he was still Buddy and would not let him go, until he let me know he wasn't "him" anymore. Maybe that was selfish of me - but I wouldn't hurt him ever on purpose. It did get worse, he got slower, lost more of the use, more of the feeling, more accidents, less moving, we tried every type of doggie diaper, then on to human diapers, and finally settled into a routine. On Monday evening, he got bad and really wasn't Buddy anymore. So Tuesday I took him in and the vet told me that his brain had been working on trying to work his back end and was tired of trying. He was starting to shut down the rest of his organs. He had stopped eating and was giving up. The vet said he was not going to get better and nothing could be done. He was letting go. So I let him. Sorry this is so long but had to get it out there.
Spencer On Oct 7th 2012, our beloved Spencer crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. We had rescued him while on a trip to Miami, FL. He rode in the back of my car all the way back to Dallas, TX. We didn't know what our ABR Alumni Zoe AKA Kari was going to think about him but it was too late for that. They became fast friends and he actually became her hearing aid so if he moved she was right there. We had him for 3 1/2 years and was taken from us too soon. We did not know that he had a mass on his spline the size of a grapefruit and had pushed his insides forward. After getting 2 opinions from 2 different vets, they felt it was best to lay him to rest. He was 9 years old but didn't act a day over 2 and there isn't a day that goes by we don't think about him and the emptiness we have in our home and hearts. We love and miss you Spencer Roo. Michael and Heather Govantes
Scarlett Scarlett was a great pup from day one...she was always happy and very out going and ready to meet and play with anyone...she was the first of all my fosters and she was only a foster for my a week or so before i said she was going to mine....she came to me in Sept of '06 and today i had to put her down because of cancer that was growing on her rectal area and one mass had been removed but it started to come back fast and it was the right choice to let her go...she was my companion, best friend and great listener...she got me through think and thin and always had so many doggies kisses for me when she saw me or wanted to wake me up or just because...she will be missed by me, her human brothers Jace and Peyton and her doggie brother and sister Ali and Jenna stan edwards
Hazel (aka RiceaRoni) I'm so sad to announce that my sweet Hazel has passed away. We had to put her down yesterday October 12, 2012 at 1:20 pm due to her having seizures. It breaks my and my family's heart knowing she is no longer here with us. We have only had her since February 2012 and everyday that she was with us was a blessing. She blessed us with her love. She was the best dog anyone could have asked for. I wish we could have had longer with her but knowing that she is out of pain and is able to be the Hazel that we fell in love with puts us at peace. We couldn't have asked for a better dog. We will forever love and miss her! Hazel we love and miss you always! Love ur mom, dad and ur sisters!
Sebastian/Jack One day, a friend at work casually mentioned that Austin Boxer Rescue was looking for foster homes and I figured that sounded like a pretty cool idea and filled out an application. Little did I know then what an amazing road on which I was about to embark. Not long after that, I got a call and was asked to foster Sebastian. The moment I picked him up, I fell in love. Sebastian was a gentle, sweet boy who just needed confidence and to learn that humans could love him unconditionally. As I worked with him, I grew more and more passionate about rescue and I knew that if I could find a different living situation, I could make even more of a difference. I moved a couple months after I started fostering Sebastian and I began to take in more dogs. When he found his furever family a few months later, I didn’t cry. I knew he was going to exactly the right place. This amazing family had a son who was very wary of dogs, but never Sebastian. We kept in touch and I got to have visitation. It was the best of every possible world. When his mom texted me a week ago and asked me to call, I knew that Sebastian (now Jack) had crossed the rainbow bridge. It was with a breaking heart that I made that call and I heard the sadness and the pain as she told me the news. It was all I could do not to break down as we talked about how special he was. She said that he had taught her a love she didn’t know before. I explained that she and her family had given him a life he could never have known otherwise. The year plus he was able to spend with them was easily the best of his life and I was grateful to have played even a small part in making that happen. I shared with her two things. First, that a friend had once shared with me his belief that one of life’s greatest injustices is that humans outlive their canine companions. Second, that it is often the case that a rescue dog rescues his human much more than his human rescues him. I knew my words were of little comfort, there is nothing that takes away the hurt of this type of loss. As I write this, I look around my living room at my four foster dogs, my two foster failures (dogs that I took in as fosters and wound up adopting) and my female who journeyed to Austin from Boston with me two and a half years ago and I am filled with love and gratitude. Sebastian/Jack was my first foster…there have been many since him and there will be many in my future. He taught me what rescue is all about. He showed me how special it is to be the bridge between a dog’s previous life and his destiny. He introduced me to an amazing family that I am lucky enough to consider friends. Jack will always hold a special place in my life and I will always be grateful to have known him.
Kalu "Old Man Lou" "Gramps" It is with a heavy heart that I announce Kalu has crossed over the rainbow bridge. His aching and failing body was put to rest on Wednesday June 20th. We only had Lou for a short time but he was loved and well cared for. He was a stoic old man who my friends said reminded them of an old World War II veteran. Old, barely walking, but still fighting. He hated getting baths and loved getting on the bed although he wasn’t able to by himself. He would put his two front paws on the bed and look at you with his one good eye as to say “umm a little help here, I’m old you know.” He had recently lost his owner of 10 years and I think his heart was broken never to recover. I believe in my heart those last days he was begging and pleading with me to let him go so that he could be reunited with her. I wanted to write this memorial in order to honor his life. I wish I could of known Lou before and seen him as an young pup. I am sure he was very handsome with a regal and demanding precense. Although it was terrible to let him go, I am comforted by the fact that he is now with his owner, finally being able to do boxer burns and stub wags. Rest in Peace my sweet old man. I’m so glad we were able to comfort you and take care of you in your last days. It was an honor and a privelage. Run free sweet soul.
Dear Tasha Hess, You were supposed to only be a foster for a short time but we ended up being your forever home. When you came into rescue, you were broken…literally. The fear you carried after being ripped open by a pit bull lingered for many months. We never thought your emotional wounds would heal, but they did. I will never forget how you came into rescue as “aggressive” and when you left you were the poster child of perfect. You turn from fearful to confident and helped other terrified dogs come out of their shell. You taught dogs that have never seen a toy how to play. You remain and inspiration to the foster family you left behind. We love you and miss you and are glad you found peace in your final years on this planet. Thank you for everything you have given us and touching our lives with your wonderful spirit. You will be missed. Jen and Cotton
The world lost a great dog today. Cyrus was special in ways that can't be explained. He was probably the happiest and most loyal dog I've ever known and all he wanted to do was please his family, which he always did. He was so gentle with my infant son and would let him climb all over him and kiss his wet nose. He loved to lay out in the sun and roll in the grass (and then come inside and shake it all off on the floor), hang his head out of the car window, chase and bite the water shooting out from the sprinkler, and running as fast as he could so that he looked like a deer whenever he went outside. He was always in the best shape out of all of my family's boxers. Within weeks of feeling great, his demeanor suddenly changed and his health took a turn for the worst. He had developed a brain tumor and his body began shutting down. He was 8 years old. I hope his next life is better than this one was for him, and I hope that we were able to make him happy for the 2 1/2 years that we were lucky enough to know him. He was an amazing dog who loved to go for car rides. One time my husband was getting something out of his trunk and Cyrus hopped the trunk and sat down, looked up at him and wagged his tail, ready to go. He made me laugh every day. I will miss his Cyrus hugs. 12/9/03- 6/4/12 Life won't ever be the same without you, Cyrus. Words can't explain what you mean to me, Doug, Owen, Andrew, Linda, John, and your best friend, Olive. We will miss you every day, and I hope that we were able to create enough happy times for you to make you forget about all the bad times you had before you came into our lives. We were lucky to know you. I will never forget you, my special buddy. Sara Thompson
She wasn't with us long enough to get a name, but this nameless boxer girl was loved. She mattered. She was at least 10 years old and we have to believe that someone must have loved her once for her to reach that age. What happened? Where did her life take such a terrible turn? These are questions that will never be answered, but our nameless lady mattered to us, she was loved by us, she is being mourned by us, and we will miss her. She's the one that got away. We were too late to save her, but she spent her final hours knowing love and comfort. Sometimes that's all we can do, and sometimes that has to be enough. Farewell sweet angel. I wish I could have done more, I wish I could have saved you, I wish I could have given you a name, I wish I could have gotten to know you some. Farewell sweet angel, you will remain in my heart always.
Yesterday was one of the hardest days of my life…I lost my sweet boy Conrad. I have such a huge whole in my heart. I just wanted everyone with ABR to know what a joy he brought to our family! I just wished so much, that we had more time with him. I remember the first time we laid eyes on each other (Sunset farmer’s market). Thank you Marie for selecting us to have Conrad join our family. We needed each other. I helped Conrad through his muscle atrophy, much need weight gain and loss of hair. What a beautiful mess he was! Through all of our walks together he helped me lose over 63 pounds. I will truly miss our evening walks together. All of my family will miss him sitting on his loveseat watching over us…he moved over for no one! All the people that loved him and he loved back during the Barnes and Nobles gift wrapping shifts and fund raising events. He truly enjoyed all the attention and love he received, and for those memories it brings me some comfort. Jetta our other adopted boxer paced and cried out load. She knew something was wrong because silence had fallen over our house. We brought her out with us. She sat right next to Conrad licking his face and pawing at him. It was heart wrenching. We laid him to rest over looking our pond…one of his favorite places to run. He truly made me a boxer lover for life!
It's with a very heavy heart that I have to announce that one of our "Silver Heart" dogs, Jay Z, passed away today. This program is set up to find homes for elderly dogs that don't have much time left. ABR pays for hospice care for the duration of a dogs life to help ensure the dog is comfortable and yet not a financial burdon on a family. ABR is so grateful for the care given to him in his final months by his wonderful foster mom. Donna Blackstone thank you for everything you did for Jay Z, you were his hero!
He leaves behind Minnie and my youngest, Hank, who looked up to him and adored him (really, he did). He was also a wonderful foster brother to many dogs and puppies in need over the years working with me in rescue….he especially liked the puppies. I put together some photos of him to remember him by in the link below. You might not be able to tell, but he did love the camera because it was usually followed by “treats”. WE LOVE YOU ELVIS. I adopted Annie 4 or 5 years ago from ABR when I lived in Houston. At the time Annie was 38 lbs and they guessed that she was around three years old. Annie’s tongue stuck out of the front of her mouth because of no front teeth. It was love at first sight for me. (Last Vet visit she was 63 lbs of happiness). I knew white boxers had a lot of health issues and Annie had her share of lumps and growths. Annie and I worked through these health issues as best we could, mostly by spoiling her with Love, Attention and healthy foods I was fortunate enough 2-1/2 years ago to semi retire. I have spent all that time, 24/7, with Annie. We had a routine that started with Annie sounding like a seal or donkey braying and when ignored she would jump in my bed and stand over me to wake me up for her walk. I After the walks most days we had yard work to do outside. She would sit in the sun and every once in awhile roll over on her back and wiggle around like a water wiggle with her legs in the air. She made me smile every time!!! We made trips to the recycle center where they hired mentally challenged workers. They all loved Annie and Annie loved the ear scratching in return I was devastated to wake up and find that Annie had passed away in her bed on the morning of December 26th 2011. She was being treated for a bladder infection and I woke up at 5 am to find her snoring so I let her sleep. It is my hope and prayer that she went peacefully in her sleep. I had Annie cremated through “Pets at Peace” and have the urn on my desk to remind me daily of her. It is very hard to wake up every morning knowing that I can’t spend the day with her. Hopefully, soon, God willing, I will heal enough to rescue another boxer.
She brought such joy into our lives though she wasn’t with us a year. The residents loved that she would sit at the elevator and greet all visitors and they came and left the building. When we adopted her she weighed 101 lbs. We put her on diet dog food recommended by the vet and her weight got down to 68 lbs. She became much more active and feisty. She was such a sweetheart and loved attention from everyone. She would go with me on rounds up and down the hall and say hello to everyone she passed. We were so looking forward to her first Christmas with us. The residents still talk about her on a daily basis and we all miss her greatly. She was such a blessing to us. Here is a photo of Princess a week after her adoption. The staff pitched in and sent me flowers from them and her thanking me for choosing Princess and bringing her into their lives. Jennifer Aguirre
Our Looney was not a boxer but an American Staffordshire Terrier. However, he was the inspiration behind our rescue efforts and the reason the ABR got 3 boxers in dire need out of Midland, Tx.
When we first got our Schnitzel. I felt as she would never be off her leash. She was a tractor on paws. I remember my grandson then eight years of age taking her for a walk. They were walking along the road when Schnitzel spied upon several deer. Well, she decided to introduce herself. Under the rail fence she went with the grandson now on his stomach being dragged up to the fence. He hung on to the leash for dear life. His thoughts at the time was if Schnitzel gets away, “Grandma is going to kill me”. All ended well and they both returned a little shaken but just fine. His hand did hurt for a few days afterward, but to him, it was well worth it. After several months of Schnitzel being walked on the leash, it seemed she got the idea, or perhaps I did. The leash was no longer stretched to the limit and Schnitzel was probably getting tired of dragging me along. I removed the leash and with limited circumstance for her safety, ever put it back on. Schnitzel is recognized via newsprint coast to coast as a crew member of our racing team. Fortunately, there are many photographs taken of the team and Schnitzel in the winners circle. I suspect that hundreds of children have petted Schnitzel. Because of our racing activities, we are involved with many people. She was a fixture in the race pit areas riding shotgun on the golf cart. Schnitzel had a way of treating the immediate members of our family in different ways. With me, it was that she sensed when I was about to put on my shoes. She would try to help me by standing in them. It was a battle each and every day including her last day. She knew that meant it was time for “outside”. Time to run and investigate. She would wait for me to get my scooter and follow her down the road. She would be beside herself with excitement. She never tired of that routine. We never left Schnitzel alone for more than a few hours. She had us trained very well and our daily routine included her and make time for her. Schnitzel traveled in the motor home to most every state in the Midwest on more than one occasion and a great traveler she was. From the mountains of Colorado, to Branson, Mo., the swamps of Louisiana, the shores of the gulf coast. Of all the wonderful times we had together, my favorite was walking with her along the Little Missouri River in Arkansas. Total quite with serene beauty abound and nothing missing Schnitzel’s senses. It was simply magical moment to be almost as one. Schnitzel being a older dog when we got her almost five years ago, one tries to use logic and come to realize that there is only so much time left. But, there really is not a way to prepare for the inevitable. The silence of the house is deafening. The celebration of Schnitzel life will come, but not today. We still have a tough day coming when we bring your remains home for the last time. Yes, Schnitzel, you did find your Forever Home. We would never leave you. We love you Schnitzel, and in our heart, you will live forever. Russell & Inge Snyder
It was the happiest day of our lives when you found out what a toy was for, I can remember the day Tilden came running in the kitchen yelling “mom she is playing with her toy”, Ever since that day you took it everywhere with you. There was not a day that went by you did not make us laugh. You had a heart of gold. I am so sorry that we could not have helped you earlier in your life and that you had to live the horrible life you did before finding Austin Boxer Rescue. When you came into our lives you were very anger and confused, I knew at that point you just didn’t understand that humans could be so nice and caring given your past. Tilden had asked “why you didn’t let us know you were sick until it was to late for use to help you”, I had to tell him” boxers or to worried about making us humans happy that they forget about themselves”. You were so close to finding you forever home before you left this world you will be truly missed by every heart you touched during your time with ABR. I know now you can live the life you deserve without pain, I just wish it could have been longer with us. Here is Tilden’s most cherished photo of you and him, you where one of our most dearest fosters. We will never forget you,
Major I love you with all my heart and your spirit will be with me always where ever I go.You will be truly missed.RIP my Major XOXO Love Mom and Dad
From the moment I received the email to evaluate you and saw your picture, I knew I had to be your Foster Dad. Your sad face touched me and made an impact on me. I picked you up and you looked so beat down and sad. I took you to VCA on Spetember 7, 2011 and could not wait for you to come home with me. I went to visit you every other day and called everyday to see how you were. Your Foster Mom and I went and bought you a bed and a collar. On September 12, 2011, I received the news that X-rays found a large stomach mass and that was the reason you wouldn't eat. At this point, they decided to put you down. I wanted you to wait for me, so I could be there with you and let you know how much I cared for you, but you started having problems and have to leave me earlier. I did not get to see you, but was told the peple at VCA were there to help you on your way and show you that you were Loved very much. I did not have you at home, but the week I had with you affected me alot. I miss you and am glad that you are now happy and at play. Love your Foster Parents,
On July 18th, 2011 my best friend passed away. Lucy was my first boxer - we met 12 years ago when she and I were both a bit spunkier and she was a lot of a Princess Rascal Rat. We bonded immediately over pizza and for the rest of our lives together, she always got the first and last bite of crust. I learned the first day she came home with me that one needs to put a lot of planning when bringing a young boxer into your life. Let’s just say that after the first time I left her alone, I discovered that a white bathroom can get repainted, papered, and chiseled within 30 minutes. Soon afterwards I realized that an old guinea pig cage is a poor substitute for a dog crate. Apparently, being placed in a guinea pig cage is an outrage to a Princess Rascal Rat and deserves nothing less than a good reason to ask your property manager if she would consider increasing your pet deposit. Lucy and I learned a lot together during that first year. She learned her name was “Lucy No” and I learned that figurines should not be placed less than four feet from the floor, that one should not try to housebreak a boxer by walking them under trees with fascinating pinecones, that dogs will become tired of carrots once they have figured out how to steal them from rabbits without hurting rabbits, that Yo-Yo Ma and his cello can soothe a “savage beast” - and that there is nearly nothing as comforting as waking up with a [lightly?] snoring boxer laying across your neck. Peace. Even more peaceful when they cuddle under the blankets with a paw over your shoulder. That’s love. We also both learned that “thornless” prickly pear cacti actually have teeny, tiny thorns and, while they might be somewhat tasty, they are not harmless. They are definitely not harmless. They are mean. Lucy and I learned a lot more during the rest of our years together. I think she learned how much I loved her when she jumped into a river to follow a stick and she realized that she did not like water and could not swim - and her mommy, who also did not like water and could barely swim - jumped in and held her with both arms, looking into each other’s eyes, doing the best doggie paddle ever. She was with me during a period of significant life changes. She was there when I made a major career shift and moved back to Austin, cocking her head while I packed up the UHaul and sighing about the fact that a Princess Rascal Rat had to share a truck bench with every plant and other living creature that could fit into a 6X3 foot space. Lucy was there during the loss of family members, during the breakups of relationships, during other career changes. She pulled on my leash (or was it her leash?) when I had a hitch in my giddy-up. When I was laughing and singing, she’d pull on my shorts to make me dance with her. Everyday when I was getting into my car after work, I thought about seeing her and her kidney beaning. Every single time, for 12 years, she greeted me at the door, leaping high for years and then a little less as she got older - but always leaping like a fawn unicorn. Because of my love for Lucy, I realized that I have a profound love for boxers, which led me to LSBR and ABR. This made her sigh at times, because she was a Princess Rascal Rat who had a flair for melodrama when she felt it necessary. However, I think she understood that, as sad or hurt dogs came into our special home, happy or well dogs would find their way into their special homes. Lucy and I bought our first house together. When I closed and got the key, we lay on the carpet and I said “this is our place.” Two weeks later when I was painting, she ran around like a unicorn rat, stepped into the paint tray, and marked the carpet with yellow paw prints across the house. For over ten years, she let me pull out carpet, remove decades-old tile, put in new tile, paint over and over, move around furniture constantly, and change her yard. Lucy’s passing was peaceful. She had been getting a little tired the last couple of months, but nothing was out of the norm for a Princess who had long ago turned into the Empress. On July 18th, 2011 her big ole heart rested. We both were home and, although that first night was the first I had spent there without her, it’s still our place.
Klaus was my friend. He came into our rescue late in his life, a silver, too old to be placed. For a while he lived with a really sweet lady who had two other boxers. Every night was a feast there, but her health wouldn't allow him to stay. He bounced around until he found our home. He had his pillow, his kennel, his food, and all the ear scratching he could get. He loved to lay out in the sun half the day and on the pillow most of the night. He liked to play with the young dogs in the yard and would make a couple of good runs before standing at the door until we let him back in. Last night when we got home we let the pack out into the yard. Jenny did the normal headcount and noticed Klaus was not inside. We found him out in the normal spot near the BBQ pit. Life had left him behind quiet, still, and calm. I will miss you my friend, rest in peace little brother. You were a good dog
Who knew that rescue groups make home visits? Aware of what people go through for two-legged adoptions, I cleaned my house in a frenzy, giving special attention to the bathrooms, lest I fail the inspection and lose Kirby due to a pile of dirty laundry or germs on exposed surfaces. I passed, though, and the next week, I went to Stan’s to get my dog. “The big guy knows something special is happening today,” Stan said. I clipped on Kirby’s new leash, and we took a long walk through the neighborhood before getting in the truck for the ride home. On the way, we stopped at Sonic for a celebratory beverage, while Kirby slept in the back seat. Since that day, I refer to the Cedar Park Sonic as “Kirby’s Sonic.” We belonged to each other for just three years and three months. Kirby became my traveling buddy, going with me for walks and rides. I created a hand signal for “Want to go for a ride?” so that we could slip out and take off without the other dogs knowing where we were going. Everyone Kirby met became his new best friend. Many outings included a stop at Sonic, Kirby’s favorite eatery, where he enjoyed a large ice water and tater tots. One of my favorite photos of him, pictured here, was taken at Sonic, of Kirby watching for the carhop to bring his order, stalactites of anticipatory drool dangling from his jowls. At home, he would sometimes sniff his water and then look up at me, which I knew was my cue to fill the Styrofoam Sonic cup I kept for him with ice and water. I’d put it on the floor, and he would slurp to his heart’s content, perhaps imagining that he was back at the drive in. I’ve always made up signature songs for my dogs. They are corny, but they capture something of the dog’s personality. Here is the poem for Kirby’s song: I have a dog named Kirby, and I call him Kirbalicious. Kirby had many of the traits that boxers share, but he didn’t snore. He did, however, like to stretch his 83-pound body sideways against all the bed pillows, so sometimes I got another pillow and slept below him in the bed. He was a great sleeper. Because he was so big, with an enormous head, he could almost put my entire face in his mouth. He liked to gently nibble my nose, which made me laugh, which blew air out his big ol’ lips, and we usually ended up rolling around in a smooching competition. At some moment in Kirby’s brief life, perhaps when he was homeless and a stray, his immune system faltered. A cell mutated, then another. A deadly tumor known as hemangiosarcoma began to grow on his heart. Then it metastasized to other organs. I can see his grave from the porch where he waited for me to come back to him. I sing his song to him…...I had a dog named Kirby, and I called him Kirbalicious… Kathryn Avery Maggie Regards,
Missy
We miss you and we love you and we will see you on the other side. Click on the Image to read the full Rainbow Bridge Poem
I will never forget walking into Comet's foster parent's home and Comet greeting us right away. Comet walked right over to Athena and began licking her in her mouth and playing with her. Comet would do this daily for the rest of his life and my wife and I joked that he was giving her kisses all of the time. We would walk Comet and Athena around the neighborhood and Comet would always encourage Athena to walk a little longer with him. Comet met several other dog friends and neighbors on his walks and frequently passed by a daycare center on his walks. All of the children at the daycare center would run over and pet Comet every time that they were able to see him and it seemed like it made their day. Comet was also my running buddy. He would encourage me to run on days that I did not necessarily feel like it and would set the pace for me on the runs to keep me going. Every night I got home from work he would run up to meet me at the door with his whole body shaking since he only had a little nub of a tail to wag. I looked forward every night to being greeted by my best friend. Whenever I was depressed he would come lay his muzzle in my lap and when I was excited he would always do his little dance which my nicknamed him "Twitchy Butt." Last week after sudden kidney failure my wife and I made the difficult decision to put him down. My wife and I held his muzzle in our arms and said goodbye as he drifted off to his eternal slumber. We will always remember Comet as our eternal puppy and will always be grateful for the day that he came into our lives. Rest In Peace Sweet Comet Mom, Dad and Athena will miss you.
We adopted Peyton in February of 2010. He had a best friend, Hanna, that we adopted also. They were the best pair of dogs anyone could ask for. Last month Peyton was diagnosed with lymphoma and was terribly ill. We had to have him put down today and we are broken hearted. Peyton was a loving and happy dog. He wagged his nubbin and twisted in his boxer C every time he saw us. He was a great 60 pound lap warmer. Our grandkids could love him in any fashion and he was gentle and sweet. We will miss him horribly and hope we can be enough company to keep Hanna happy. Thank you for the chance to have two such incredible companions in our lives. Patsy Beaty.
Jax
He quickly made himself at home and got along with everyone.....cats, dogs, little kids etc. He was a true gentlemen and never chewed or destroyed anything. He was my running partner and loved long runs, going to the beach, riding in the car and sunning himself in the backyard. He passed away after a very short illness in which his liver failed him. On Saturday (1/15/11), we had to make the heartbreaking decision to put him to sleep. He was a loyal friend, a member of our family and he will be missed. Cherry
Cherry was a totally dedicated dog to our family and a huge protector of the yard. Her personality was that of “protector” and that she did. Cherry loved her mommy, daddy and bubba, and we took many trips together in our travel trailer. Cherry went to Jackson Hole, Yellowstone Park, Flagstaff, the Grand Canyon, several Indian reservations, Monument Valley, Ruidoso, several state and national parks, Rio Grande Valley and the Black Hills of South Dakota. Cherry loved to go on trips and we could not keep her out of the truck or car. We would walk our boxers while in RV parks and people would stop us to compliment us on their beautiful coats, friendliness, and good behavior. Cherry was a pretty brindle with a white chest. She made this crazy sound that was like she was talking and gargling at the same time which was hilarious. Cherry had “her spot” on the couch and could be an absolute “dead weight” if you tried to move her. We miss her immensely. She was part of “us”, our pack. Like the rest of our boxers, she had her own personality and funny traits. It is always painful to say goodbye to one of our family, but we will always have our memories and the love we felt for her and from her. Jake Lambert (2005-2010)
He had a wonderful Christmas in the country and one of the best days of his life running, swimming, and gopher hunting with his dog friend Molly. He is buried under two cedar trees overlooking his favorite frolicking pasture. He was 5 years and 1 month old. CLICK HERE to download a PDF of some of our favorite pictures of Jake. We think you will see that his was a well-lived life cut too short. Best regards, “Near this spot are deposited the remains of one who possessed Atlas
The 1st day I met Atlas, I knew he was supposed to be with me… he hopped right into my lap, the 70lb lap dog he thought he was. He was twice purchased from and returned to a reputable breeder in Las Vegas because people didn’t understand/ couldn’t handle his curiosity or playfulness; curiosity and energy are things of which he was FULL. He was the Houdini of 8ft fences and his crates, the lover and protector of humans and the terror of hats. With such a lovable face and happy disposition, it was hard to ever be mad with him, even after he attempted to burn down my apt. when he escaped his crate. He was the best traveling companion EVER and rode with me through nine states and nine years. No words can adequately express how much he means to me, nor do justice to all the memories he left with me. I always told him as long as his nub wagged when I got home, I wouldn’t put him down… That’s why he had to leave on his own, he knew I wouldn’t be able to do it. It’s not the same without him here. He deserved a happy life, and I hope I gave him all that he deserved. Miss ya Bubba! I’ll see ya again eventually… sleep well.
Allister “We die with the dying: see, they depart & we go with them. October 2010 Dear Allister, (BHT, Daddy, Judge), We miss you so much, sweet boy, & it hurt us deeply to say goodbye to you last week. Up until the very end you were surrounded by love, alongside your family of loyal vets & vet techs at the Allandale Clinic, & your two mamas who loved you fiercely. You fought so bravely against lymphoma, & simply inspired us everyday with your courage and spirit. Allister, your life was beautiful, & your legacy of living fully & happily embracing everyone who crossed your path will live on with us. Thank you for filling our home with your rooty toot toots, your sweet snoring, sounds of you wolfing down your food & an abundance of kisses. You are forever and ever a part of our family, & you hold a special place in our “heart’s neighborhood.” We wish you could be here to snuggle up with, but we know that you are truly here in spirit & everywhere we go. You are the sunshine that warms us, the cool air that sweeps through the trees, a shadow cast from the moon’s soft glow. What a profound blessing to have shared your life with you! With all the love in our hearts, Sarah, Stacy, Milo, Tecate & Travis (8/00 to 6/10) “You will lose someone you can’t live without, and your heart will be badly broken, and the bad news is that you never completely get over the loss of your beloved. But this is also the good news. They live forever in your broken heart that doesn’t seal back up. And you come through. It’s like having a broken leg that never heals perfectly--that still hurts when the weather gets cold, but you learn to dance with the limp.” Anne Lamott
Amos Our first boxer, Amos, changed our lives forever. He was our first chance to see how great the boxer breed. He was the best dog, from the second we met until his untimely passing on 9/21/10. We had him for 5 years, and his adoption through ABR got us hooked and we now volunteer when we can and now have another great dog thru ABR, Malachi. Amos was a very active and fun dog, and yet so gentle to us and our now 3 year old daughter. He will truly be missed and never forgotten. I miss you, boy. Jason, Melissa, and Bailey O'Keefe
Flannigan When I first met Flannigan in October of 1999, she was my foster dog, my first, actually. She came into rescue after being dumped at a vet's to be put down because "her food was too expensive." She was very sick, covered in itchy, red, angry hives (later discovered to be a proliferation of tumors), and scared to death of new people after being abused at her former home. She had only been with me a few weeks when she was diagnosed with inoperable, terminal mast cell cancer and given 6 months, tops, to live. My vet suggested a homeopathic treatment he had had some success with, and though expensive, I decided I'd do it so as to give her a shot at the good life she deserved but hadn't had yet. I made it my mission to give her the best life a dog could ever know in those 6 months. Either the homeopathic worked or Flannigan decided she liked being adored, spoken to sweetly, touched gently, cuddled, and allowed and encouraged to get on the furniture (probably both!), because she outlived that 3-6 month estimate by well over 10 years. She got me through a divorce, a cross country move, the death of my other beloved boxer, and all of the other trials that we face just getting through life. She was my best friend and steadfast crosscountry travel companion, loved me even when I was at my least lovable, and even though the cost of her medical problems was sometimes impossibly steep, she was still the least expensive and most available, effective therapist I've ever had. I rescued her once, but she saved me again, and again, and again. I can only hope that I gave her even half of the joy in her life that she gave to me. I am so blessed that without ever saying so, my friends and family committed to giving her that wonderful life too, and together we healed her physical and emotional wounds, and we gave her a beautiful, unexpectedly long life. When I first got her, she was timid to the point of fleeing and hiding when new people came into the house, but through the kindness and patience of the people who loved her, she learned that not all hands hit, and voices are meant to speak love and affection rather than anger. Flannigan, you changed my life for the better every day you were with me. You reminded me that every single one of us, no matter how healthy, is terminal! and to enjoy every day like it's our last. We loved each other in a way I can only hope every person gets to experience but precious few will. You were my sunshine, baby girl, and you made me happy when skies were gray. My life will never be the same without you Cayno
Cayno came into rescue with his sister, Lady, in June. He was emaciated and cover with a fungal infection called ringworm, but he was happy and he loved his sister. He moved around to two different foster homes and even had 2 people interested in adopting him, but it never worked out. He always seemed to make his way back to us, his original foster home where he spent time with his Lady before she passed away. He loved being in our home and we always joked that the adoptions and other fosters didn’t work out because Cayno wanted to stay here. He slept on top of me at night and usually took over so that my own beloved dogs would have to make room for him or move. We allowed his to do anything since he was old and had arthritis, we just wanted him to enjoy his last days. We would even get in fights about who Cayno loved more, me or his foster daddy! Cayno followed me everywhere and I was never alone when he was around. Even when I would take a shower he would poke his little head in the shower and get drenched, just so he could be with me. He was truly a great companion. I often wonder what happened to his family and how could they leave Cayno and Lady to die in a shelter. They were the best dogs and still had so much love to give even in the short period of time they had left. Cayno, you will forever have a place in my heart and I will always consider you as one of my own. You did not die homeless, you were part of my family, as was Lady. I am so glad that I had the opportunity to know you both and had you to help enrich my life. Thank you for all you gave to me. Love- Momma Jen and Cotton and the family.
Lady Lady came into rescue on 6/14/10 with her brother Cayno. They were found abandoned in a back yard and from their coats and overall condition it appeared they spent most, if not all of their time outside. Shortly after entering the rescue, Lady’s lymph nodes grew to the size of golf balls almost overnight. It was assumed she had lymphoma and with her age not much could be done except give her hospice care. She started Prednisone and her lymph nodes went down for a few months. During this time Lady was able to frolic, cause havoc and enjoy a healthy serving of chicken. Sadly, nothing lasts forever and her lymph nodes slowly became enlarged to the size of base balls and she faded into nothing but a skeleton of her pervious self. On her final night on September 19, 2010 her foster parents came home to find her struggling to breath. They took her in for a trip to the emergency clinic where to ease her suffering. It was a calm evening and with the windows down and the cool, crisp breeze hitting her face she enjoyed her final car ride. As her foster parents walked her into the emergency clinic she began to seize and her life quickly slipped away. Lady was such a fighter and she always did things on her terms. Some how we feel she got her way even in her death. Her foster parents knew the inevitable fate she would soon have to face, but it didn’t make it any easier to come home without her. The house feels emptier with her gone, but we are so relieved that she has finally found peace. Thank you Lady for giving us those wonderful three months where we could enjoy you and we will always consider this your home and us your family! Jen, Cotton and the gang
Guenther Hi ABR, I want to thank you for all of the work that you do to find boxers like my Guenthy a good home. I adopted him only 7 months ago, but he had a tremendous place in my heart and in my life when he passed away yesterday afternoon, July 7, 2010. I would like to share this note I wrote for him with you. Dear Guenther, In just 7 months I was completely and utterly in love with you. I never felt alone knowing that I would come home and be greeted with your hugs (literally you hugged me!!) and kisses. No matter how bad my day was, you always made me smile as you ran towards me with a wagging butt, wagging tail stub, and big slobbery smile as on your face. I already miss you so much. Showers just aren’t the same without my guardian moving the shower curtain to make sure momma is still doing ok (and maybe sneak a sip of shower water –ew guenthy boo-boo!). . I’m going to miss you so much when I find myself sitting out on the porch or on my couch without my cuddle bug right at my side. I will always remember you when I wait for the sunset – that was our favorite time to walk and explore our world together. You were my protector. You were my companion. You were my best friend. I am grateful that I was there to say goodbye to you, but I wish you didn’t have to go. I know that if you could have stayed with me you would have. You fought until the very end, Guenther – my warrior, and mamma is so proud of her baby. Momma looooves yooou!!! I will miss you and love you forever. Love always,
Gus I had to say goodbye to my best friend Gus this month. I had the privilege of adopting him from ABR 3 years ago, and he has been the light of my life. He loved me better than anyone I've ever known. He was only 4 years old when he was diagnosed with acute leukemia on 04/28/10. We had 3 wonderful weeks after that, and then it was time for him to go. I miss him every day and hope I will get to see him again someday. Thank you, ABR, for all that you do. I am so grateful that he was mine. Robin Hopkins
Lila
1) She was the best dog in the whole world. Goodbye Sammi, will see you on the Rainbow Bridge.
Anyway, I've just been thinking about her a lot and missing her. I have really enjoyed fostering so much, and it has helped me grieve and heal. Every foster we have has been compared to Sissy, and they all remind me of her in some way. I feel like I am getting a second chance to do all the things I wish I'd done with Sissy when she was alive. I'll never take another pet for granted, that's for sure!
We lost him not to what we are sure was a brain tumor. Which was so horrible for him to have to go though. at 9 that morningwe noticed small changes and through out the day he just progressively got worse. I knew in my heart that he would not make it thought till the next day and by 10:00 that night he lost his battle and we had to say our good byes which was so hard to do....losing a best friend is one of the worst things in life. He is truly missed every day and my heart aches for him, because his time with us was way to short, but glad to have had what we did. He was amazing!!
Bruno: In loving memory of my best friend in the world – Bruno. You have touched so many hearts and will be terribly missed by me and everyone that has had the opportunity to meet you. I cry for my loss but I knew that this day would come and I am truly blessed that I got to spend the last 10 years of your 14 year life. You will forever be my little Boo-Boo. God speed and wait for me at Heavens gate, because heaven just wouldn't be heaven without you to warm my heart.
Henrietta: Henrietta was a sweet 3 year old baby girl that had a very sad life. She was found as a stray in San Antonio and taken to the local kill shelter, where we were able to safe her from euthanasia. She was incredibly emaciated when she came into rescue and has scars on all over her body that told the tale of her hard life. One scar appeared to be from a rope or chain, where she likely spent her days tied up, that got tied around her back leg. Two more where an her back legs from sitting on pavement or hard dirt for a long period of time. Then there were the giant memory glands that obviously showed she had been used heavily for breeding. Additionally, she had contracted heartworms, a tick borne disease from the infestation of ticks that covered her body, and a life of poor nutrition that was evident from her poor coat and thin body frame. With all she hardships she had to endure she had the best personality. She had a love for life and a very free spirit. There was not a dog on the planet that she didn't want to play with and she was very affectionate and tentative to every person she ever met. Her life had taken a dramatic turn for the better when she entered rescue because all her ailments were fixable and she would be able to have a life with a family that would love her forever. After about a month and a half in rescue she went to our vet to get spayed, vaccinated and prepared for adoption. She was at the vet for a few weeks and when they went to spay her they noticed she had huge lymph nodes. They were swollen all over her body from her head to her tail, they ranged from marble size to the size of a small orange. This was very bad news for Henrietta as this meant she had an aggressive form of cancer called lymphoma. She was picked up for the vet quickly and placed into a hospice foster home. We knew the end was near, we just did not know how close she was to the end. Less than two weeks after being placed into foster care she took a turn for the worst. She had stopped eating and was vomiting up everything she drank in addition to looking like a skeleton. On Saturday, May 31st at 12:17 she lost her battle with lymphoma. She left behind a vet clinic that knew her and loved her and her pervious foster Jennifer and then her hospice foster Stan. She was such a great dog and we all hope she had a nice happy end to the hard life she had previously suffered.
Lazarus (aka Gingerman): Lazzie died shortly after midnight tonight. As I think I've shared with most of you, I am convinced that Lazarus and I were meant to know each other. When I met him at the Austin Boxer Rescue Kennels I was haunted by the look in his eyes and within a few days I decided to foster him while he was being treated for heartworms. Of course it was soon thereafter that we learned his heartworms were so advanced that his heart was irreparably damaged and he was expected to die within weeks. He lived five months. In those five months, he learned that he was lovable and that life could be good. He learned to play with toys, to walk on a leash, to share his food, to hog the bed, and to accept and give affection. He also, with the help of hundreds of peanut butter sandwiches, gained almost twenty pounds. He weighed 82 lbs at his last vet appointment. Unfortunately, some of his past continued to haunt him until the end. I think the most heartbreaking thing was how he would run and hide anytime someone opened the pop-top of an aluminum can. That scared him so badly that he got nervous anytime someone went into the garage.......because all my sodas are in the refridgerator in the garage. When I first brought Lazarus home he couldn't walk on a floor, he wouldn't make eye contact, and he was nervous about being touched. Even so, the first night in my house he climbed up on the couch where I was sitting, laid down, and put his head on my lap. What I didn't know at the time was that he wouldn't show that amount of tenderness or affection to me again for weeks. I truly believe that he was saying "Thank you. I know I'm safe now." Tonight, it's me that wants to thank him. Lazarus reminded me of two things that I knew deep down, but had forgotten. One is to listen to be called and then have the faith the accept that call. I really didn't want two dogs; my house is totally crowded with two big crates, it was teacherous at times to walk two dogs together, and Lazarus and Gemma were not exactly enamored of each other at first. But, I knew that I was called to care for him and I'm so thankful that I did. The second lesson of which he reminded me is that, sometimes, love can work miracles. Years ago my friend David Smith, an angel on Earth, told me that someone can be healed without being cured. My deepest hope is that Lazarus experienced that: I couldn't repair the damage done to his heart by the heartworms, but I hope that his time with me, Gemma, and all of my friends and family were enough to heal the wounds he suffered before he came to me. Rest in peace, Big Lazzie. Gemmy and I will miss our sweet boy. Thank you for all that your taught me.
Thank you Sue and David for everything you did for this wonderful girl - she lived as long as she did because of you!
Joey: When the time comes we will adopt again and will contact you.
To my FrodoBear, Momma and Daddy miss you and love you very much.
It took only a couple months for the life as Joni knows to change forever. She is a dog lover and has provided forever and foster homes for many unwanted, abused and neglected dogs throughout her life. Joni was the proud mom of Babe, Kelly, Zeus, and Little Girl. Babe and Kelly both died from spleen cancer, while Zeus was diagnosed with lymphoma and Little Girl with lung disease. All these dogs had individual stories. Babe was found as a stray on the streets. She lived 10+ years with Joni and her favorite past time was swimming in her lake. Kelly was found starved, half dead, abused, and half of her foot had worn off as she wandered the streets looking for food. She lived 12+ year with Joni and never forgot about the streets from which she came. Zeus was one of the first boxers in ABR. He had 2 torn ACLs, was abandoned by his previous owner, heartworm positive and starving. Joni had him in her life for 20 months before she had to say her final farewell. Little Girl lost her battle with a chronic lung illness a few days before Christmas 2007 at the ripe old age of 13. All four dogs lived to be fat and had happy, healthy lives while in Joni's care. Although she feels blessed to have them with her, I hope she knows how much they adored her. They all loved you and couldn't have been happier with anyone else. You are my inspiration!
I will be missing my Bo Bear greatly. Bo was born June 26, 1996 and passed away July 7, 2007. I made the decision to put him down due to complications he was having. Please accept this donation from Bo and Russell Freeman. I love you Bo, and think of you very often. ABR would like to thank Russell for the donations made in the memory of his beloved Bo. As you can see from the pictures, they spent a lifetime together and were dear friends for several years. We are so sorry for your loss. May he live forever in your heart.
Myrtle: was a 2-month-old Boxer mix who was in rescue for only a short time. "Moaning" Myrtle was named by her foster family for her adorable puppy whine. Myrtle's joy and purpose in life was to play and snuggle, both which she was a pro at. Unfortunately, Myrtle came from a very sick litter and thus was doomed from the beginning with a short life. But, it comforts us that Myrtle spent her last few days by playing hard and loving life. Myrtle is desperately missed by her foster families and the veterinarians who cared for her.
Thank you Jimmy. Sammy: (Dedicated to my Sweet Sammy Rest In Peace Pooh Pooh) (Thanks Travis) Rainbow Bridge There is a bridge connecting Heaven and Earth. Visit Sammy's My Space page at http://www.myspace.com/sammythestud
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would spend10 minutes squeezing her ears & eyes and then scratch her whole body. Annie’s back leg looked like she was trying to kick start a motorcycle!!!
Comet
Peyton
Jax came into my life as my first foster for ABR. He was originally named Hambone and came to stay in our home in December of 2006. After being in my home for about two hours, I knew that he had found his "forever" home. 
We really miss our Cherry girl. We adopted Cherry from ABR before it was really called ABR. She was being fostered with a nice lady by the name of Melissa in Pflugerville north of Austin. Cherry was to be a partner to our male (Walker) whom we got from Lone Star Boxer a few months earlier in 2005.
As some of you know, our dog Jake passed away unexpectedly on Christmas night. 
Cayno left this world today on January 20, 2011. His foster parents woke up to him panting heavily and his abdomen was distended and firm. We went to the emergency vet and it was in fact what we feared. He had bloated (the stomach turns over completely or partially) and he would need a major surgical intervention to save his life. We take in our older dogs to give them comfort care and we knew the rescue could not afford a major surgery on him, nor did we feel it was fair to put him through at his old age. We loved and held him and he was peacefully put to sleep.
Sammi:
Sissy:
Hutch:
Muffin (aka Annie): Muffin was a sweet elderly dog who was almost dead when she was turned over to the rescue by her owners. When she came into rescue, this old lady's heart was packed with heartworms, she had a thyroid condition that was untreated, and she was infested with fleas and ticks. This was only a small portion of her problems. She was underweight, her hair was coarse and thickened, and she was very depressed. Her saving grace was a wonderful family that met her at an adoption day and decided they needed to give her the best end to her life that they could offer. Sue and Davis gave this girl the princess storybook ending to her life that she deserved. All of her medical needs were tended to, as well as her emotional needs. They believe she went peacefully and happy. She appeared to be running when she passed. Ironically, she could barely stand when she entered rescue, so for her to be able to run was a blessing in itself. 
Oscar: I first met Oscar several years ago when I went to Houston to meet dogs at Lone Star Boxer Rescue. I had intended to adopt a dog close to the age of my other two boxers, both of whom were under two at the time. However, soon after we all arrived, we saw a boy rolling around with his back on the ground, swinging a rope in his mouth. It turned out that this boy, Oscar, was 6-years-old and had only three strong legs to walk on, due to an old accident that kept him from walking with his fourth on the ground. It didn't matter - he had energy - lot's of exuberant, yet peaceful energy. Oscar lived with my family for over 6 more years. Early in 2008, he suddenly became very sick and it was soon decided that it was his time to rest. Incredibly, his first family contacted Lone Star just three days before he passed away, wondering how he had been doing since he had left their home. We were able to share memories of the two halves of his life. Oscar was an amazing dog, who even into his 12th year could outrun the others across the yard and displayed all of those beloved boxer traits - the full-bodied kidney bean wag, the post-drink slobber kiss, the dream-awakening snore, the gas assault, the squeaky toy love, and the forever puppiness. We miss you Osk. You know I have a couple of corny songs dedicated just to you. Meredith, Lucy, and Plato send out a big wet kiss. Every morning you still bathe in the sun and every night you still sleep with us. Lucy and Plato try to wrestle over your place. Silly kids. -- Marlena
Frodo: Frodo was a great Boxer. We rescued him from the ASPCA in Austin in 2004 and I knew from the second I laid my eyes on him he would be wonderful. We brought him into our home and loved him deeply from the start. He was a very mellow dog, who loved to snuggle and be in our presence. Every now and again he would get vocal and be silly, but he rather enjoyed laying around the house and taking naps. In 2006, we welcomed Daisy, whom we adopted from the ABR, into our home to be Frodo's little sister. They loved each other very much and he enjoyed her company. He was very protective of his little sister and she loved to snuggle up with him. We discovered very early on that Frodo suffered from heart problems and were advised to keep his activity low, which wasn't a problem since he wasn't a very active Boxer. However in the spring of 2007 he became very ill and weak. We took him in to get checked out only to discover that Frodo had cancer. We did all we could to get him better by taking him to chemo every week, but that became expensive and after advising with our Vet, it was decided that we were going to make him as comfortable as possible. In August of 2007, Frodo lost his battle with cancer. We were with him as he passed into heaven and telling him that he was a good boy and that we loved him so much. Frodo went peacefully and in the presence of the ones who loved him the most, laying on his favorite blanket and having his head rubbed. It was the hardest thing we have ever had to do, but knowing that he is out of pain brings us peace. Frodo was our first Boxer and our first dog. He will always have a special place in our hearts. He is missed deeply every day. He gave out so much love and all who knew Frodo stated that he was a good dog and very loving. I pray that we will be together in heaven one day.
Tulip was a sweet 2-year-old boxer that had an awful life before she was rescued by ABR and she had the scars to prove it. She had old wounds all over her head and legs that were consistent with a dog that had been in many fights. In addition to that, she had a long scar that went from her neck and followed her spine all the way down her back. Because of her condition, we suspected she would be dog-aggressive, but she turned out to be quite the opposite. Upon meeting her first canine friends in rescue she was very fearful and cowarded away from them. When they attempted to play with her, she would find the farthest corner from other dogs and go curl up in it in terror. It was a slow progression, but she did come out of her shell a tiny bit to interact with the other dogs before she became ill. Her disease manifested as kennel cough, so we believed that was the only thing wrong with her at that time. One week into the suspected kennel cough she started to take a downhill plummet. She quit eating an drinking, because lethargic, and continued to cough constantly. She had been on antibiotics for a week and her foster mom increased her antibiotics 3-fold and began giving her fluids under her skin to keep her hydrated. Three days after her plummet, she was found deceased in her foster mom's bedroom. Her foster mom was heartsick and distraught, but with her extensive knowledge of kennel cough, she knew this was something of a much greater caliber. Tulip's little body was sent to have an autopsy to determine what the actual cause was of all her suffering. In the end it turned out to be extreme case of heartworms. Ironically, it wasn't the worms in her heart that had caused the most damage. Her heartworms reproduce their babies, called microfilaria, and were found swimming around in the bloodstream. Poor little Tulip was infested with so many microfilaria, they were literally causing liver and lung damage in her body. Tulip spent a whopping 3 weeks in rescue before she passed away. With the vast number of microfilaria residing in her bloodstream, she was doomed before she ever made it to rescue. Even with heartworm treatment, she would have suffered the same fate. Please let Tulip's life and death be a lesson to all about the harsh and sometimes lethal effects of heartworm disease on dogs. For more information about heartworms, please visit our FAQ page soon or discuss it with your veterinarian.
Guy: Guy came into ABR as an owner surrender after 6 years with his previous family. All it took to give him up was one growl at their toddler and Guy was no longer considered part of the family. When he came into rescue he immediately captured the hearts of all the volunteers. He was laid back, got along with everyone and everything, and had a very outgoing personality. Guy was Lucky enough to find himself a wonderful forever home with a young man named TJ and his girlfriend Madison. They could not adore a dog anymore than they adored Guy. It was a normal day and Guy was in need of a minor surgery to fix a tooth that he had broken. The surgery went well without complications, until suddenly his heart stopped beating. Despite all their efforts the vet was not able to get his heart beating again. His new daddy could not be more heart broken since they only had 2 months to share together and the passing was so sudden. Guy will forever be remembered by all the volunteers at ABR and most especially his new family that loved and lost so soon.
Ellie: Ellie was an elderly boxer who came into ABR as a stray from the SanAntonio shelter. When she got to my house, it was apparent that she was not in the greatest of health. She went to the vet last week to get spayed and it became obvious at that point that she was in a very poor condition. She had a scar indicating that she had previously undergone a mastectomy (but, surprisingly, had never been spayed). She had another mammary tumor, a lemon-sized tumor on her shoulder, plus several other small tumors throughout her body. The veterinarian told me Ellie would not be with us very much longer. She had not eaten anything for 2 weeks and she continued to lose weight as my concern for her heightened. Today she decided she wanted to spend the day outside. I thought it was too cold, but sweet Ellie was stubborn and determined to enjoy the cool, crisp day. I let her stay out and periodically checked on her to see if she had turned into a Popsicle. I would peek my head outside and say, "Ellie…it's freezing are you ready to come inside where it's warm?" Ellie would look at me and smile (literally) and walk away… I knew she was happy. I fed her a half of a can of puppy food in warm water and she slowly ate it throughout the day. In the early evening, Ellie began to breathe heavily and would not stand up. We drove her immediately to the Emergency Clinic because we did not want her to suffer. The vet agreed with my initial instinct, that she would need to be euthanized or she would suffer through out the night. I took her for one last walk outside to pee and to feel the breeze on her face. She could barely stand at this point in time, but she managed to make it outside for one last pee with dignity. We walked back in and away she went…I feel very sad that I did not know Ellie very long. I am also sad that I could not have gotten to her sooner to take better care of her from the beginning of her life. The reality is that I can not change the past, but I did get the opportunity to love and support this magnificent dog during her final weeks of life.Please give your babies a big hug and kiss. Ellie was a very happy dog and she had a loving caring "family" at the end of her life.
Brindi: Brindi passed away on November 21, 2003. She left behind a broken hearted mom and dad (Karen and Rick), a brother Bos and sister Piper. To this day they continue to miss her. Brindi will never be able to be replaced, but she will live forever in the memories of the family she left behind. 
Angus: Dear family and friends, It is with heavy heart that we write to inform you that we have lost another member of our family last night. Many of you know that our male doberman, Angus, was diagnosed with malignant histiocytoma of the spleen 2 months ago. I removed his spleen and started chemotherapy, but 2 weeks ago we discovered how aggressive this cancer was when a new tumor was discovered in his abdomen. He held on as long as he could while his body became weaker. Last night he laid down rather lifelessly in the living room as if to say he was ready to go. Geoff and I eased his suffering by euthanizing him. We were lucky to share our home with such a great outgoing, personable dog for such a small part of our life, and we hope his spirit is up there with Jake (and all our other friend's recently departed ones) running, barking and playing like young pups. I thought you might enjoy a photo from Halloween 2 years ago when Geoff's coworkers got the dogs an Elvis costume to match Geoff. It's a bit short for our tall boy which makes it that much more comical. Thank you to everyone who has supported us during this difficult time. We are very appreciative.
Jake:
Lacey: I am sad to say that today at 3:40 pm Lace
y lost her battle with cancer. She was about 2 1/2 yrs old, only a baby, and a darling dog. She was originally an ABR dog and up for adoption. She was rescued by Jimmy in a small town north of Georgetown. A Good Samaritan watched as she was dumped from the back of a pick up truck on an old dirt road. When she entered the program it was discovered that she likely had a few litters and was heartworm positive. She was taken to the vet to begin heartworm treatment and her prescreening chest x-rays revealed a huge mass in her chest. Jimmy had already fallen deeply in love with Lacey and it was apparent that she could not be adopted out in her current condition. Jimmy opened his home to Lacey knowing that he would be a temporary home for her because her time would be limited. She soon began her chemo treatments to help extend her life as long as possible. After a 6-month battle, sweet Lacey lost her fight. The only thing Lacey never lost was her love of life and her sweet nature. Her daddy said, "She is a great girl, very sweet, very affectionate, and good with other dogs. This is an easy girl and anyone would be very lucky to have her live out her days with them. I really like this girl." Lacey loved everyone she met, but she most especially loved her foster mommy and daddy. They devoted their time, energy money and love to Lacey toensure that she would receive the best possible end to her life. 
It is called the Rainbow Bridge because of its many colors. Just this side of the Rainbow Bridge there is a land of meadows, hills and valleys with lush green grass. When a beloved pet dies, the pet goes to this place. There is always food and water and warm spring weather. The old and frail animals are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. They frolic and romp all day with one another. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing. They each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. They run and play together, until the day comes when one of them suddenly stops playing and looks off into the distance. The nose twitches. The ears are up. The bright eyes are intent. The eager body quivers. Suddenly this one runs from the group, faster and faster, leaping and flying over the tall green grass. You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you take him or her in your arms and embrace, clinging together in joyous reunion. Happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your cherished pet, so long gone from your life, but never absent from your heart. And with your pet beside you once again, you cross the Rainbow Bridge together. Rest In Peace Sammy, we love you Hi... I'm Samson aka Sammy aka Sam... I'm a 1 year old Boxer... Mom saw all the other pups with their own pages and had to get me one too... Just when I thought I had everything... I share a pillow with Mom even though we have a king size bed... I feel the need to sleep with my face against hers and snoring really loud.
Dixie: was a beautiful 6-year-old fawn female. She was rescued from a shelter outside of Austin where her owners had taken her because she did not do well with small rodents. She was in rescue for a few days before it was discovered she had been previously diagnosed with an auto-immune disease called Thrombocytopenia. 
By the time this was discovered she had been off her meds for at least a week. She was also completely incontinent and was forced to live in her own puddle of urine. With this disorder being off meds and having stressful events can cause a relapse which can be fatal. With the trip to the shelter, the introduction to a new home and not being on meds it was enough to throw Dixie a relapse where it was impossible for her to recover.Luckily for her, she found her way into a loving foster situation where she lived out the 2 remaining weeks of her life. Her foster mother and father absolutely adored her, Dixie could do no wrong. Once she was back on meds additional drugs were given to her to enable her to hold her bladder. This sweet heart of a dog had a good week where she felt great and was able to live comfortably. She slept in bed with her foster daddy and she loved the days she could go outside and enjoy the warm sun on her back. Although Dixie only lived two weeks with her foster family they did not consider her a foster dog. Dixie was their precious dog and they grieved her loss as if she had been in their lives for years.
Tessa: was a beautiful little boxer that was absolutely loved and adored by anyone who met her. 
She was nicknamed "Monster", because of her completely goofy personality when around new people. Any time anyone ever came around she always loved being the first to greet them, whether at the Doggie Park (her fave spot) or just taking a walk! Tessa made everyone laugh with her wonderful personality, she could make anyone smile.On a personal note, she was my best friend. We went together everywhere, and she always had a kiss on the face or a hug for me whether I was sad or happy. Everyone always commented on how much our personalities resembled each other, and the fact that Tessa thought she was a human (which would be due to the fact that I treated her like one!)I and everyone around her loved her very much. And in her short life she touched so many people. Tessa was my big goof ball and I know she is in Doggie Heaven playing with all the other dogs now, which she loved more then anything.
