UPDATE: Special Needs Puppy Sasha Reaches Milestones With Foster Mom's Help

A Fighter From Day One

Sasha was born with hydrocephalus and a cleft palate. From the start, she received expert care. Maria DeMarco is a specialist in rescuing cats with special needs. Her group, FURRR 911, stands for „Felines Urgently Rescued, Rehabilitated, and Replaced.”DeMarco focuses on bottle-feeding orphaned kittens. She also cares for sick or injured cats. She calls these animals „perfectly imperfect.”When DeMarco met Sasha, she knew the puppy would fit in. Even though Sasha was a dog, she was a fighter. „She was a fighter from day one,”DeMarco stated. „She has overcome many obstacles in her short time on this earth.”DeMarco admitted to losing sleep and gaining gray hair. Yet, none of it mattered when she looked into Sasha's eyes.

Sasha weighed just over two pounds at the time. This was a victory. She had recently fought a severe infection. Upper respiratory infections are common in puppies with cleft palates. Sasha suffered from a severe case. She had a fever, nasal congestion, and vomiting. One eye became infected. She also lost weight.

Battling a Severe Infection

At barely over one pound, weight loss was dangerous. DeMarco grew worried when Sasha did not improve. Antibiotics were prescribed. Her temperature stabilized, but she remained lethargic. She was unsteady on her legs. She refused to eat. DeMarco feared the symptoms were linked to her hydrocephalus. She rushed Sasha back to her neurologist.

Recovery and Quiet Nature

With the specialist's support, Sasha began to recover. A daily routine of medication helped. She received fluids and tube feeding. By her twelve-week birthday, she was herself again. She was energetic and affectionate. DeMarco may become her forever mom. „Sasha is a very quiet and reserved puppy,”DeMarco said. „She is not a typical puppy at all.”Sasha prefers to sit right next to her human. She also loves cuddling with her feline housemates. She does this even if they are larger than her. Sasha has a long road ahead. There are no guarantees. However, she has immense love and support. „This puppy is a true inspiration,”DeMarco said. „Despite congenital malformations, Sasha proves she is a fighter.” Remembering Sasha Sasha crossed the Rainbow Bridge in March 2018. She was just over six months old. In her short life, she brought joy to many. She loved her human and animal friends.

FURRR 911 has since rescued other cleft palate puppies. They keep Sasha's memory alive through their work. Beautiful birthday photos were taken by volunteer photographer Gina Gencarelli. Fans can follow her story on social media.