Farewell Achilles

There is a mighty hole in our hearts as we mourn the passing of our beloved Achilles, a well-loved member of the Speedwell family forever in our hearts. A feeling of numbness fills us, and thoughts cascade and collide into one another. We are left feeling lost. Working and living with animals, you always know this day will come but it was to be years from now – not now, not today. As we reflect on our Achilles’ life there are so many memories. Achilles was loved by many. He was an inspiration, overcoming the abuse he went through at a young age and learning to trust again and to live a happy life with his family despite his past.

Achilles had a horrible beginning to his life. Sold illegally as a puppy, he suffered abuse and neglect in his early years. Once rescued, it took weeks to nurse him back to health. Yet despite all that he went through, he remained peaceful and calm. He even developed trust and affection for his caretakers here at the sanctuary – an amazing example of his gentle and forgiving spirit.

Achilles was an old soul. He grew to be less shy than his siblings. He enjoyed attention from those whom he chose to trust. He was always calm and steady, and would stroll over to visit for a bit, and then saunter back to his favorite napping spot.

Achilles had an unwavering love for his family. After his recovery he had the pleasure of reuniting with some of his own siblings that had come to the sanctuary less than a year before. His siblings welcomed him back as though they had never been separated. The three remained harmonious for many years, and though they each faced different health challenges, they were always there for each other and supported each other after surgeries or treatments. Running Bear and Watonie will surely miss their brother very much, as will we.

When Achilles began exhibiting mobility issues, we were immediately concerned. We consulted our veterinarian and tried some treatments, but despite our efforts his condition continued to worsen, and we were left with the difficult decision to bid Achilles farewell. He lived a good twelve years at the sanctuary, happily with his family, yet it will always feel like not enough time with our dear Achilles.

A note from the President,

Achilles, when we first met, you were this war-torn little pup, a year-old give or take. Muzzled, your face covered in scars and infected holes in your neck and thin and so scared. But as you looked into our eyes and felt the warmth of our care and concern, you returned our gaze with a grateful sigh and your whole body visibly relaxed. We carefully removed the muzzle and treated your wounds. In the days and weeks that followed we watched you learn that you were safe and that we were here to serve you and care for you. No more need for fear. The day we opened the gate and you burst through it, running free, and the smile on your face, we cried as you ran. At times we held our breath. As you jumped logs and with pure abandon diving headfirst into the pond and burst out again in a fierce and gleeful all out run, your new pack mates in tow. And then you all collapsed in the middle of the clearing and just lay there regaining your breath. It was pure joy to behold. I hope Dakota was the first to greet you at the bridge, our dear Achilles. I will forever see you as that silly scamp you turned into as you learned to love us and the beauty you grew into. We never had to learn to love you, it was love at first sight.

Farewell Achilles. We will deeply miss your bright and gentle spirit and your warm soul. We will hold the memory of your love and devotion to your family forever in our hearts.

IN LOVING MEMORY ACHILLES OF SPEEDWELL
Born EST. April 2011, Rescued February 2012, Died December 19, 2023