16/07/2026
For Hank 🤍
For the past two years, I had the privilege of caring for this very special wire-haired dachshund. I first met him when he was too young to go on walks, so our time together began with visits, and over the years I was lucky enough to become part of his life.
Hank faced more health issues than any dog should ever have to endure. His owners went above and beyond for him every single day, doing everything they could to give him the best life possible. They adapted routines and schedules, administered medication, worked through his PICA diagnosis with muzzle training, and constantly advocated for him through every challenge he faced.
Eventually, despite everything they did and every effort made to help him, his health problems became too much. His medication was already at its maximum, and the kindest and most loving decision was to let him go peacefully.
Hank was, without a doubt, one of the sweetest dogs I have ever met. He loved to play, cuddle, be involved in everything, and simply be with the people and animals he loved. He was best friends with my Rough Collie, Koda, and seeing their friendship was one of the many things that made Hank so special.
I got to see a side of Hank that not everyone had the opportunity to see. Behind his challenges and his difficult diagnosis was a funny, loving, affectionate, playful little dog who had so much love to give.
I will always be grateful that I got to know him. I will miss him terribly, and I know Koda will too. 🤍
But Hank's story also highlights something I feel very strongly about.
Ethical and responsible breeding matters.
Health testing matters. It matters for every breed, every size and yes- it matters for crosses and mixed breeds too.
A dog being a crossbreed does not automatically mean it is healthier. A dog being a particular breed does not mean health problems should simply be accepted as inevitable. Responsible breeding means researching the health issues relevant to the dogs being bred, carrying out appropriate health testing, considering genetics and temperament, and breeding with the long-term welfare of the puppies in mind.
It means supporting breeders who are transparent, who health test appropriately, who prioritise the wellbeing of their dogs and puppies, and who remain responsible for the lives they bring into the world.
Please research before buying a puppy. Look beyond claims such as “vet checked,” “DNA tested,” or “health checked,” because these terms do not necessarily mean that the parents have undergone the appropriate breed-specific health testing. Ask questions. Look at the parents. Research the breed or cross. Understand what tests are recommended. Be willing to walk away.
And please think carefully about where your money goes.
When people buy puppies from backyard breeders who do not health test, who breed without understanding the health risks involved, or who produce crosses simply because they are fashionable or profitable, the demand continues.
The people who ultimately pay the price are often the dogs.
Hank deserved a life free from the immense health burden he was forced to carry. His owners gave him everything they possibly could, and I hope they know that they gave him a life filled with love, care, advocacy and happiness despite everything he faced.
Hank was so much more than his diagnoses. He was cherished, he was loved and he mattered.
