The Cockapoo that united the world!

Today marks 3 months since the loss of precious little Walter. In remembrance of Walter please support Walter’s Law. You can help with a financial donation, sharing his story with friends and family, or by helping spread the word through email and social media.

Walter’s Story
Walter was tossed from a moving car in the Whites Creek community in Tennessee still wearing a collar and stake. He was badly malnourished and though he fought hard and his soul was strong, he was not able to overcome the results of physical abuse and neglect he suffered.
 
 
 
A passerby saw Walter being thrown from a green SUV on Trail Hollow Lane near Brick Church Lane and called Metro Councilman Walter Hunt who lives nearby. Councilman Hunt contacted Robyn’s Nest Animal Rescue and Sanctuary who helped get him into the care of Snooty Giggles. Snooty Giggles is a non-profit organization founded by Shawn Aswad that rescues between 300 and 350 animals a year. The rescuers named him “Walter” because Councilman Hunt aided in getting him rescued instead of being sent to Animal Control where he could have possibly been put down.

At the time of Walter’s rescue, due to starvation, he weighed a mere 11 pounds which is about half the weight of a healthy Cockapoo his size. Walter went under the care of Animalia Health and Wellness for Animals. Actress and activist Ashley Judd fell in love with little Walter. She spent many days and nights with her beloved Walter showering him with the love, affection and care he desperately needed and deserved. Ashley was also joined in her efforts to save Walter by her champion IndyCar racing husband Dario Franchitti. Their two Cockapoos, Buttermilk & Shug were even a part of Walter’s many supporters which became known as Team Walter.

On May 11, 2012 Walter crossed over the Rainbow Bridge in the loving arms of 4 of his devoted caregivers. That morning Ashley Judd tweeted: “Friends, cry, grieve, & yes, rejoice with us. Walter went to heaven this morning, held by 4 women sitting under a tree in a glorious patch of sunlight. I am so honored this precious spirit chose me to be a part of loving him so hard, so perfectly for the days God gave us. We fought with all we had to match Walter’s will to live. Every overnight feeding, every bum wipe, every bit of laughter & ansgt was a gift. And when his body was tired and that was clear, he let go with the same sweetness, grace, purity, & trust with which he came to us. Walter… We love you and you will always be a part of our family. Thank you, thank you, thank you. You made us better.”

What You Can Do to Help:
Walter was an inspiration to countless people and through his story he united the world. To ensure Walter’s story is never forgotten, let’s once again come together and unite so his legacy will prevent the suffering of any animal. Team Walter is rallying for all the “Walters” in the world, to challenge and change a Law that allows owners to abuse their own domestic animals. They are asking for your donation to assist in getting support and passing the legislation of Walter’s Law. The funds raised will go to support the passing of Walter’s Law, a bill to aid in the rescue, care and adoption of abused animals. When passed “Walter’s Law” will disallow tethering. Tethering is a very cruel practice and is explained in The Humane Society of the United State’s article; The Facts About Chaining and Tethering.

Walter’s Law. It’s Simple. No Neglect – No Abuse – No Chains

Team Walter updates can be found on Twitter by following @TeamWalter2012 or on the Team Walter Facebook page and the newly launched Offical Team Walter website.

More photos of Walter & his rescuers can be found on our Walter Pinterest Board.

My Name is Walter! is a children’s book that was inspired by Walter’s story. It is based on the true events surrounding his discovery and rescue. My Name Is Walter! is a cautionary tale about responsibility and pet ownership. In real life, Walter’s story captured the imagination of many and seemed to unite the world against the horror of animal cruelty. This book is intended to honor Walter and all abused and neglected pets with its message of responsible pet ownership. 100% of all author and publisher profit from the sales of My Name is Walter! are donated to Snooty Giggles Dog Rescue.

Walter
Saved by Many.
Aided by Hundreds.
Loved by Thousands.