NorCal Boxer Rescue of Texas

It is with great sadness that I have to tell you about the passing of Sampson. He was diagnosed with Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) in March of 2005 and we were told he would only last 6 to 9 months. He left us on Saturday 12/09. After experimental medication he finally lost the use of his hind legs. Although he could not get around on his own he was still engaged and happy. His quality of life was what was important to us. Domino, his sister always seemed to care for him while he was dealing with his condition. In time we brought a puppy, Loki (AKA Cotton) into the family and he seemed to energize Sampson and they would play the face bite game on and on. Unfortunately DM can not be cured. Not only is it rare in younger dogs it is very rare for Boxers. Sampson’s ongoing luck brought it to him.

Sampson came to us because he was abandoned at a home in the back yard. During an ice storm the neighbors called the authorities because he was chained to a tree on a short lead with no food and frozen water. The authorities picked him up. Sampson had Heartworms and was under weight, 55 pounds, he grew to a very healthy 100. NCBR came to the rescue and picked him up. At first the authorities did not want to release him even to get treatment because he was evidence in the case against the owners that were tracked down and from what we hear were prosecuted. NCBR talked them into releasing him and gave him the care he needed.

We found NCBR in April of 2002 when we adopted Domino (AKA Sydney) after the passing of Chelsea our good friend for over 15 years. Soon we realized that Domino wanted to be princess. Not wanting an only child I started looking at NCBR for a partner for Domino. I saw a picture of Sampson on the site and told Renee that Sampson was the one. I was anxious to meet Sampson and hoped he would be ours knowing there was another family looking to adopt him. At a pet fair we brought Domino to meet Sampson and all Hell broke loose. As Sampson lay on the grass Domino stepped on him and a fight broke out. I pulled Domino off and ended up on the concrete between the curb and a car. Driving away I still wanted to bring Sampson into our family but thought it might not be a good idea after the first meeting. Renee told me that Sampson was the one, and I would regret turning away from him. Well, I listened to her and Sampson came home in June. Sampson and Domino got along about as well as on their first encounter. They started to play but would occasionally try to determine Alpha. Within a year they were friends. It was not always easy, but you could tell that they knew they were family. As time went on they became close. Domino and Sampson became brother and sister.

During his illness we brought Loki into the mix as a six week old puppy. Concerned about Loki around Sampson we monitored them. At first Sampson was not happy with the energetic puppy, but he warmed to him and they played on the floor. Loki brought energy back to Sampson and challenged him. This was all good. Domino, Loki and Sampson filled our home and were all part of the same pack.

Sampson true to the Boxer spirit came to a new home and learned to trust and love, even after all he had been through before. He understood he was home and loved those around him. Renee and I can not thank NCBR for rescuing Sampson and allowing him to come to us. He filled our lives each day along with Domino and recently Loki. We can not thank NCBR enough for brining Sampson to our lives. You rescued our boy and allowed us to love and care for him. The time was much shorter than either of us wanted but we loved him, and now miss him more than anyone can imagine. We all know he is now chasing Rabbits and is in a better place. Sampson will always be a part of our Family. He touched many people, the NCBR crew, our family and our friends. He will forever be our friend.

We want the team at NCBR to understand that the Forever Home is real and their efforts do not go unrecognized. Renee and I thank you very much and we continue to tell many about your efforts and the great job you do.

Renee & David