This year, fundraising for Doggie Dash has a special meaning for me because of Asher.

In January 2022, Asher arrived at OHS emaciated with raw, irritated skin. He ended up at OHS because a concerned citizen saw his condition and called our Humane Law Enforcement tip line. A Humane Special Agent investigated and brought Asher back to OHS. Thanks to a veterinary forensic exam, it was determined that Asher’s condition was caused by neglect and his owner was charged.

Case closed – right? Nope.

It took more than a year for Asher’s case to make its way through the legal system because of many complications but OHS’ Humane Law Enforcement team never gave up. They fought for justice for Asher.

Asher was fortunate to find an experienced foster home to help him learn how to be a dog. While OHS’ shelter is a great facility, it can be very stressful for some dogs. This was the case with Asher. He hated being at the shelter. Each time his foster parent went out of town, I would bring him up to my office so he didn’t have to spend any more time than necessary in his kennel.

After 16 months, Asher’s former owner pled guilty, and he could finally be available for adoption.

Case closed but not the end of the story.

Asher began having medical issues in the summer of 2023 and would mysteriously lose the ability to stand up and walk. Again, OHS did not give up on him. They invested in an MRI at an outside specialist to figure out what was going on. It turned out Asher had a disc issue in his back. Luckily, it is manageable with medication and monitoring his activity.

Meanwhile, in June 2023 Joe and I said goodbye to our beloved dog Rosey. We were fortunate to have the compassion and expertise of the Community Veterinary Hospital to help us through this tough time.

A few months later, we began looking for another dog who would get along with Willow, another OHS alum. When we introduced Asher to Willow it was if he has always been part of our family.

My bond with Asher is now stronger than I ever thought it could be. People talk about their “heart dog” and Asher certainly fits this description. I love him with my whole heart and every day when I look at him, I am so grateful for all that OHS has done for him.

You donations will help OHS help other dogs like Asher.