Sometimes real love means knowing when to let go, even if that choice will end up breaking both your hearts.
A 12-year-old boy from Mexico was forced into making that same heart-breaking decision when he left his beloved puppy on the doorstep of rescue group Refugio Xollin, in order to protect him.
A rescue shelter in Michoacan, Mexico, recently found a cardboard box outside their building.
Inside, they found a Pitbull puppy along with a note explaining why the pup had been left on their doorstep.
Image credits: Xollin
The rescue centre said in a Facebook post;
“Someone left this dog at the door of the shelter, inside a box, with a plush toy and a note. The note was written by a kid and he explained his dad was always beating the dog and was planning to sell him. So, in such a state of despair, he left the dog here to save him.”
Image credits: Xollin
The tragic explanation shook all the staff and after they decided to share the story on Facebook.
People from all over the world have been reaching out to offer their help and to praise the young boy who gave up his puppy.
Image credits: Xollin
The note revealed that the individual who’d left the puppy outside was a 12-year-old boy named Andrés. He loved the puppy so deeply, but his current circumstances meant the puppy was not safe in his home.
The note continued on with Andrés making a dark revelation — his father was mistreating and abusing the Pitbull, subjecting him to extreme physical violence.
So he and his mother decided that the only way they could protect the puppy and give him a better life was to give him up.
Image credits: Xollin
Andrés’s note, originally written in Spanish, read;
‘My name is Andrés and I am 12 years old, My mom and I decided to leave my dog in your hands, hiding it from my dad because he is thinking about selling him. But he mistreats and kicks him. One day he kicked him so hard that he hurt his tail. I hope you can help and take care of him. I left him a stuffed animal so he won’t forget me.’
Image credits: Xollin
The heartbreak Andrés was experiencing is painfully evident in the note. It was clear to the staff at the shelter how much he loved his dog, and they were deeply moved by his words.
They decided to name the puppy Rene — and while giving him a once over they discovered that his tail had minor fractures and he was suffering from parasites.
Luckily for Rene, he’s now in good hands and all the staff are making sure he gets the right treatment and a suitable home.
After Rene’s story was shared on Facebook, hundreds of adoption requests poured through, so it was only a matter of time before he found his forever home,.
Image credits: Xollin
Andrés made a courageous decision to put the well-being and happiness of the puppy before his own, even though it meant losing him forever.
It was a heroic display of love and selflessness, but it is horrible and cruel that he was ever put in this situation, to begin with. However, thanks to Andrés’s sacrifice, Rene won’t have to live in fear any longer.
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10 of the Smartest Dogs in the World:
A friend of mine has a beautiful Dalmatian. Friendly, energetic and lovable, she was a perfect family pet… but she wasn’t the smartest pooch on the planet. See, she knew how to go through the pet door out into the garden, but she had no clue how to get back inside. It never occurred to her that the flap could swing both ways. So she would sit outside and howl until my friend would open the door.
Repeated demonstrations of the dual movement of the flap had no effect; it just did not compute. The dog breeds on this list, however, probably don’t have that problem. They’re widely considered to be among the cleverest canines in the world. Take a look and see if you agree.
1. German Shepherd
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No surprise here. German Shepherds are the world’s best police dogs, military dogs, and some have even been movie stars (remember Rin Tin Tin?). Brave, loyal, smart and strong, they’re the total package.
2. Beagle
Also on the list of the best family-friendly dogs in the world, the Beagle has an incredible nose that lets them sniff out just about anything. Born detectives, they’re not the most trainable pets, but they are smart. And hey, nobody ever accused Snoopy of being dumb.
3. Golden Retriever
A popular choice for assistance dogs for their easy temperament, natural intelligence and loyalty, Golden Retrievers are natural guides and also serve as great rescue dogs. Active and fun to be around, they’re wonderful family pets.
4. Border Collie
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Border Collies are considered by many to be the geniuses of the dog world. Expert herders, laser-focused (they’re known for their intense stare), and incredibly agile to boot, they’re workaholics and excellent athletes. Just don’t expect to keep one cooped up in an apartment.
5. Poodle
Did you know poodles were originally hunting dogs? They respond very well to training and are quick to learn tricks. So don’t let the fluffy looks and styled mane fool you! These dogs are among the smart canines around. Plus, they’re among the best dogs in the world for those who suffer allergies.
6. Belgian Malinois
A terrific military dog, the Malinois is a natural herder, tracker and worker. Smart, trainable and protective, these dogs require an owner who knows what he or she is doing. In addition to the military, Malinois are often recruited as guard dogs and police dogs as well.
7. Papillon
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Named for their butterfly-shaped ears, papillons are small, cute and pretty smart. They’re considered the smartest of the toy dog breed, with intelligence levels comparable to the über-smart border collie. They’re alert and focused pets, and loyal and lovable: an ideal friend for he family.
8. Doberman
Sadly, Dobermans are known more for their ferocity than their smarts, but these are considered among the most intelligent dogs in the world, as well as one of the most effective guard dogs around. They’re outstanding students known to be affectionate and obedient.
9. Bloodhound
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Don’t let the wrinkles and dopey expression fool you! Bloodhounds have the keenest of noses, and are often used for trailing (so much so that their evidence can be used in court against you!). These are loving but strong-willed dogs, and are often used on search and rescue missions.
10. Australian Cattle Dog
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You need a smart, determined and energetic dog to control unruly cows. And that’s just what the Australian Cattle Dog, or ACD, does. They’re intelligent enough to herd these much larger creatures, and while they need their independence and wide open spaces, they’re eager workers who know how to get the job done.
Did we miss your brainy dog on this list? If so, write in and let us know about it!