Entrant's Name
Stella Hanly

A little about me...
In Loving Memory of Rupert November 2005 – 13th May 2025

Rupert was never interested in being everyone’s best friend—and frankly, he didn’t care what you thought about it. A dachshund-rat terrier mix with strong opinions and stronger boundaries, he hated most people but loved his family with unwavering devotion. I was his number one, and he was mine.

He came into my life by complete accident in February 2006, when I wasn’t looking for a dog. From that day forward, Rupert appointed himself guardian of our home, keeping a vigilant eye on the neighbors from his favorite sunspot and issuing stern barks of judgment as needed. Walks were overrated in his opinion, but naps beside me while I read or watched TV? That was his love language. He welcomed Mike and Aoife into our lives, albeit reluctantly at first, and protected them with the same fierce spirit.

Rupert was more than a dog. He was my shadow, my sassiest roommate, and the spark that led me to leave corporate America and follow a calling in animal welfare. His presence changed the course of my life, and his absence now leaves an impossible void.

I will miss him every single day—the weight of him curled beside me, his disapproving side-eye, his fierce little heart. Rupert didn’t ask to be adored by the world. He just wanted to be adored by me. And he was. Completely.

Rest well, my grumpy, sun-loving soulmate. I'm so glad we found each other.