Sasha arrived at Dogwatch from the Ashburton Council Pound in November 2023 and spent 1 whole year at the shelter – a long time for a lovely wee lady! She had a lot to learn about the world when she arrived. Having had little socialisation, she found other dogs very exciting and often got over-aroused in their presence. Sasha also had a special talent for bouncing around the Dogwatch offices like a tiny parkour champion!
But despite her quirks, Sasha quickly won over our team with her affectionate and trusting nature. Then one day, Joanne walked through our doors, and we introduced her to Sasha. It was love at first sight.
Here’s what Joanne has to say about her Sasha:
“I lost my previous dog around five years ago, and when I finally felt ready to open my heart again, I knew I wanted to rescue. I had so much love to give to a dog that needed it. I’d been looking for a while when I came across Dogwatch on social media. I actually went in to meet a different dog, but then I saw Sasha. Those big eyes looking at me from her yard – it was game over. I knew she was the one.
Because she had been in the shelter for so long, we needed a longer settling-in period. It wasn’t all smooth sailing, but with Dogwatch’s support, she has gone from a zooming bundle of anxious energy to a lazy girl who needs to be bribed off the couch in the morning! She walks beautifully on the lead, is eager to learn (especially when food is involved), and is an absolute dream to train.
Sasha loves snuggling, sunbathing, and sniffing out treats—and of course, eating. She really, really loves eating! We go to the Red Zone or Hagley Park every evening for walks and training, where she’s learning how to greet and play politely with other dogs. She makes me so proud every day, and I can’t imagine my life without her now. And hopefully, one day, the cat will feel the same way! 
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We’re so happy for Sasha and Joanne – thank you for giving this special girl the love and patience she deserves! 
