Sancho Hattenbach

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sancho Hattenbach, who suddenly left us on January 30, 2026, at the age of 10. Born on July 16, 2015, Sancho was not just a pet; known for his unique personality and heartwarming antics that filled every moment with joy, Sancho spent his days as a beloved member of the Hattenbach family, proving that life is about the joy in the little things and the sweet sounds of squeaky toys.

Sancho, otherwise referred to as Sanchy, Chanchito, or Chanch, was the kind of companion who brought sunshine even on the cloudiest days. With his passive-aggressive charm, he had an innate ability to express his needs and desires, often with a deep look in your eyes, huffing and puffing until he got his way, or simply turning away to sulk. Sancho had an endearing voiciveness about him. He loved to chat with us, filling our home with his vocal expressions, as if trying to communicate every thought and emotion. His mischievous spirit shone through during pizza nights when he would seemingly sense the aroma before it even entered the house, rushing to the table in anticipation of knowingly receiving everyone’s crust. No candy bag was safe from his radar either; he became a true master at stealthily swiping his favorites, only to leave behind wrappers & sucker sticks hidden deep in his bed cusions as evidence, which made everyone chuckle. Though loving a good car ride into town, he was never one to clock into the hard work at Mom's workplace; instead, you could find him clocking out for a cozy nap after he got his pup cup “coffee” treat, as he preferred to revel in the delectable embrace of his beloved bed away from home.

One of the family’s favorite memories of Sancho will always be his joyful outbursts during playtime. He would jolt out the door, bursting with energy, performing his signature zoomies and dramatic bucking bronco act in the field across the street. You could watch him gallivant around, insisting on being the center of attention for passerbys to see. Fetch was another game he loved, often making it a challenge to catch him as he darted away, tennis ball in mouth, refusing to come back inside until he was ready. You could try to call him back inside, but good luck if he had a squeaky toy in his possession; he had perfected the art of selective hearing!

Our darling Sancho displayed remarkable patience and protective instincts, showcasing his softer side amid his rambunctious persona, making him an unwavering guardian showing care for children and babies.

He was very much a creature of habit, relishing in long, late-sleeping mornings but ensuring everyone knew it was bedtime with his determined pacing and shadowing. The excitement in him was palpable when it came time for the “med-call,” eagerly awaiting his vitamins before retreating for the night.

Despite facing adversity early in life, including a harrowing experience in an underground dog-fighting ring, Sancho proved resilient, continuing to thrive as a goofy tripod after a freak accident later in life. While he adapted with grace and determination, he never quite mastered the art of backing out of tight spaces, often getting himself stuck in situations that required absolutely no help at all. It was impossible not to laugh as we encouraged him with the familiar refrain, “Back it up, Terry—put it in reverse,” a reminder that even legends have their quirks. One of his proudest accomplishments included learning to conquer the couch again, proving that challenges were just stepping stones for a legend like him! —showing nothing could hold him back.

Sancho was not just a beloved pet, but a regal presence in a blanket and outfits that spanned every holiday and season—though, of course, dressing up was not his favorite pastime. His seasonal outfits and blankets, Sancho brought cheer to every season in the home, even when he wasn’t particularly fond of dressing up. He eventually surrendered to the paws that bound him to entertainment, joining in on the costume entertainment fun for the sake of love.

Sancho leaves behind his devoted family: his parents, Liz and Wally, and his siblings, Kaelyn, Rowdy, Bailee, and Gunner, along with his sister cat, Morticia. His absence will be profoundly felt, yet the laughter and love he brought into their lives will resonate in their hearts forever.

While we celebrate the life of Sancho Hattenbach and bid farewell to our three-legged superstar, we take comfort in the countless memories, the laughter, playfulness, and the joy he bestowed upon us. The world was a better place with Sancho in it, and we can only hope to honor his legacy by embracing life as vibrantly as he did. Rest easy, sweet Sancho; we’ll always cherish your courage, your energy, your endless love, and the sound of squeaky toys.