On November 28, a truly remarkable puppy achieved another significant milestone. Named Sasha, she marked her 12-week birthday on that joyful day.
While most puppies might take reaching three months of age for granted, every day is a cherished gift for Sasha, who was born with hydrocephalus, a cleft lip, and a cleft palate.
Since her birth, Sasha has been under the expert care of Marie DeMarco, a special-needs cat rescuer. Marie’s rescue organization, FURRR 911, stands for Felines Urgently Rescued, Rehabilitated, and Rehomed.
DeMarco specializes in caring for sick, injured, or special-needs cats, as well as bottle-feeding orphaned kittens. She describes these critical situations as “perfectly flawed.”
When she first saw Sasha, she immediately knew that despite being a dog, Sasha would be a perfect fit!
“From the beginning, she has been a fighter, overcoming numerous obstacles in her short life,” DeMarco posted on Facebook. “As her foster mother, I’ve worried, stressed, lost sleep, and even gained a few grey hairs, but none of it matters when I look into her eyes.”
Given her recent illness, the tiny puppy now weighs just over two pounds, which is a cause for celebration. Puppies with cleft palates often suffer from upper respiratory infections, and Sasha was no exception.
She experienced a fever, nasal congestion, vomiting, an infected eye, and was losing weight. At just over a pound, Sasha couldn’t afford to lose any more weight!
When Sasha didn’t improve after antibiotic treatment, DeMarco’s concern grew. Although the delicate pup’s temperature had returned to normal, she remained lethargic, unsteady on her paws, and unwilling to feed.
DeMarco took Sasha to her neurologist, worried that her issues might be related to hydrocephalus.
Following the specialist’s advice and adhering to a rigorous daily routine of medications, fluids, and tube feedings, Sasha began to improve. By her 12-week birthday, she was back to her spirited and affectionate self!
“Sasha is a very gentle and reserved puppy,” says DeMarco, who is likely to become Sasha’s forever mother. “She’s not your typical puppy. She loves sitting next to or even on top of my foot.”
Sasha also enjoys cuddling with her feline friends and other rescues, even those larger than herself!
Here’s a video of Sasha being adorable:
Sasha faces a challenging journey with no guarantees, but she is surrounded by immense love, dedication, and support.
“This puppy is truly inspiring,” said DeMarco. “Despite her congenital defects and medical challenges, Sasha has shown that she is a determined fighter with a powerful will to live.”
Supporters of Sasha can track her journey on Facebook and contribute to her care by visiting the FURRR 911 website.
Sasha crossed the Rainbow Bridge in March 2018, shortly after turning six months old. In her short time with us, she brought immense love and joy to her human, canine, and feline friends. FURRR 911, which continues to care for other puppies with cleft palates, honors Sasha’s memory.
Her beautiful birthday photos were captured by Gina Gencarelli, a volunteer photographer.
