Sasha and Jason: Reflecting on love
September 21st, 2015
by Jason Saenz, RedRover Readers volunteer
When I was looking for an opportunity to volunteer, I was happy to find RedRover and learn of their mission. One of the books in particular from the RedRover Readers program, “Buddy Unchained,” made me feel a personal connection because of our life with our rescue dog, Sasha.
Sasha was a white German shepherd mix who we rescued from a neglectful home. She was chained to a small, dirty area of concrete for most of her life. Patches of fur were missing from her body and revealed irritated sores. Her ears were covered with crusted blood from fly bites. She greeted us with fierce barking while flies buzzed around her. I knew that we couldn’t leave her there.
We took Sasha home that day and made her a member of our family.
Sasha regained her health and became a beloved companion until old age and failing health called for her to be peacefully put down. As I held her and watched the life fade out of her eyes, I was overwhelmed with so many emotions about how she touched all of our lives and how grateful I was for our time with her.
I really appreciate how “Buddy Unchained” and the RedRover Readers program bring awareness to young minds about mistreatment and proper care for animals. Hopefully, with this kind of early introduction, animals will see much less crisis and much more care.
