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Sasha
SASHA is the story of a very remarkable a Staffordshire Bull Terrier abandoned close to death at the age of 6 weeks old. Rescued from a street gutter, she had the good fortune to be adopted by author Brian L. Porter and his family.Despite suffering from a catalogue of injuries, including two broken legs and skin allergies, and eventually being diagnosed as a serious epileptic at just two years old, Sasha's story is one of triumph over adversity; of love, happiness and inspiration. Her love of life and capacity for enjoying every day to the fullest is nothing short of miraculous, and her story is told here by the person who shares every moment of her life on a daily basis, and how a disabled author and his dog have become dependent on each other.It is a story that has already touched many who have come into contact with her, from vets to nurses and a whole host of followers on her own Facebook page. Read her story and join them in sharing in the life of an amazing and very special dog!W Best Nonfiction Book 2017, Preditors & Editors Readers Choice Awards. PUBLISHER'S NOTENow available in a new updated third edition which details the sad final chapter of Sasha's life after she passed away in July 2020.
- GenresDogsNonfiction
148 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 26, 2016
348 people are currently reading
262 people want to read
About the author
Brian L. Porter
62 books71 followersFormerly a member of the Royal Air Force, Brian L Porter is an award-winning author, and a dedicated dog rescuer, with the distinction of having more than twenty Amazon #1 bestsellers to his name. He has written under three pseudonyms, with bestsellers coming under each of his writing guises. The majority of those have come under his Brian L Porter name with four coming under his Harry Porter and Juan Pablo Jalisco names.
Nowadays, he divides his time between writing his popular Mersey Murder Mystery series of books, and his immensely successful true-life Family of Rescue Dogs series, all featuring the dogs that form part of his own family, and all having been Amazon #1 bestsellers.
Nowadays, he divides his time between writing his popular Mersey Murder Mystery series of books, and his immensely successful true-life Family of Rescue Dogs series, all featuring the dogs that form part of his own family, and all having been Amazon #1 bestsellers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
October 3, 2017
A Heartwarming Pet Story
As someone who's never owned a dog of my own, Sasha's tale is one that touched me deeply and brought a smile to my face. It's a story of overcoming hardship, for both pet and owner, and making the best of life in spite of its hardships. You can tell that Brian is writing from the heart, and I would recommend Sasha to anyone who is, or has ever been, a pet owner.
As someone who's never owned a dog of my own, Sasha's tale is one that touched me deeply and brought a smile to my face. It's a story of overcoming hardship, for both pet and owner, and making the best of life in spite of its hardships. You can tell that Brian is writing from the heart, and I would recommend Sasha to anyone who is, or has ever been, a pet owner.
September 9, 2016
So glad i've finally read this Tail!
This liitle yarn took far too long to read, blurry words because my eyes were constantly filling with tears. I am upset, angry at the abuse these animals have received but also happy because there are good people like Brian and Juliet. The love and tenderness given by all is outstanding. Good luck for the future to all. And thank you - 10 dogs who are cherished xxx
This liitle yarn took far too long to read, blurry words because my eyes were constantly filling with tears. I am upset, angry at the abuse these animals have received but also happy because there are good people like Brian and Juliet. The love and tenderness given by all is outstanding. Good luck for the future to all. And thank you - 10 dogs who are cherished xxx
July 10, 2021
*Trigger warning* Sasha dies at the end of the book.😭
It's difficult for me to rate this book. On one hand, I loved so much about Sasha's story! (My husband and I have a rescued staffy right now so I was able to relate to much of the book.) I loved how the author and his wife did everything they could for their sweet girl. However, in the MANY reviews I read, not word one was mentioned about Sasha's death at the end of the book. I lost my Heart Dog a year ago so I'm still trying my hardest to avoid any books where the dog dies. The night I read about Sasha's death was not pretty. I cried my heart out.
It's difficult for me to rate this book. On one hand, I loved so much about Sasha's story! (My husband and I have a rescued staffy right now so I was able to relate to much of the book.) I loved how the author and his wife did everything they could for their sweet girl. However, in the MANY reviews I read, not word one was mentioned about Sasha's death at the end of the book. I lost my Heart Dog a year ago so I'm still trying my hardest to avoid any books where the dog dies. The night I read about Sasha's death was not pretty. I cried my heart out.
September 9, 2021
The love between a man and his dog
Beautifully written and impossible to put down. Heart warming and heart breaking. A true gem. A must read. I am glad I got to know Sasha and her heart while reading her story.
Beautifully written and impossible to put down. Heart warming and heart breaking. A true gem. A must read. I am glad I got to know Sasha and her heart while reading her story.
November 30, 2017
Sasha by Brian L. Porter is both a haunting and heartwarming story about man’s best friend and how they impact our society and our lives. It is a first-person account by the author who narrates the life of his Staffy, a British nickname for Staffordshire bull terriers (the next of kin to the USA’s pit bull), who he named Sasha. The animal is rescued after being found near death, and Porter brings her home to become part of a family that includes other dogs spared from misery and death in abusive environments. To the family’s chagrin, they find that Sasha is a victim of seizures as an after-effect of her mistreatment. She becomes a regular visitor to the veterinarian’s office, where she becomes the staff’s fave Staffy (pun intended). The author posts anecdotes and pics on the Internet where Sasha soon develops a following. Love and affection for the dog is infectious, and I’m pretty sure that readers will continue to buy this book and the Sasha Universe will grow and grow.
The theme of redemption resonates throughout the book as the Porter family is seen rescuing homeless and abused dogs, allowing them to grow into loving and loyal animals that bring joy into the lives of everyone they meet. This reviewer found it hard to navigate through some parts of the story, but I realized something else. Like spouse and child abuse, if we allowed these atrocities to remain in closets and avoid discussing them, then they would go undiscovered and unpunished. There is a special place in Hell for such demons, and hopefully wife beaters and animal abusers find the same place in prison that is reserved for molesters. Those who abuse the weak must always get what’s coming to them.
And so should we celebrate the wonders and joys of how God sends our furry friends to enhance our lives. If you haven’t experienced it, Sasha by Brian L. Porter is the next best thing.
The theme of redemption resonates throughout the book as the Porter family is seen rescuing homeless and abused dogs, allowing them to grow into loving and loyal animals that bring joy into the lives of everyone they meet. This reviewer found it hard to navigate through some parts of the story, but I realized something else. Like spouse and child abuse, if we allowed these atrocities to remain in closets and avoid discussing them, then they would go undiscovered and unpunished. There is a special place in Hell for such demons, and hopefully wife beaters and animal abusers find the same place in prison that is reserved for molesters. Those who abuse the weak must always get what’s coming to them.
And so should we celebrate the wonders and joys of how God sends our furry friends to enhance our lives. If you haven’t experienced it, Sasha by Brian L. Porter is the next best thing.
December 12, 2016
Unconditional Love
Animals are special souls. To me, some dogs, in particular, seem so close to being human. I think it’s that special connection they have with us by getting across what they’re feeling with just a look. If you’re a dog lover, you know what I’m talking about.
At the heart of Sasha’s story by Brian Porter, the unique bond that forms between man and dog is ever-present. But really, how could anyone not bond with Sasha? One look at her picture and I wanted to cuddle her. What stayed strong with me while reading this story was the unconditional love and trust Sasha shows everyone around her; one would never guess she had suffered such cruel neglect as a puppy. Even through her serious health issues, that tail continues to wag!
Sasha’s journey hasn’t been an easy road, but there’s something in the telling of it that will bring a fond memory and a smile to every dog lover. I’d like to offer a sincere thanks to the author and his family for opening their hearts and home to lost and abused animals.
Animals are special souls. To me, some dogs, in particular, seem so close to being human. I think it’s that special connection they have with us by getting across what they’re feeling with just a look. If you’re a dog lover, you know what I’m talking about.
At the heart of Sasha’s story by Brian Porter, the unique bond that forms between man and dog is ever-present. But really, how could anyone not bond with Sasha? One look at her picture and I wanted to cuddle her. What stayed strong with me while reading this story was the unconditional love and trust Sasha shows everyone around her; one would never guess she had suffered such cruel neglect as a puppy. Even through her serious health issues, that tail continues to wag!
Sasha’s journey hasn’t been an easy road, but there’s something in the telling of it that will bring a fond memory and a smile to every dog lover. I’d like to offer a sincere thanks to the author and his family for opening their hearts and home to lost and abused animals.
January 2, 2018
Essential reading for owners of epi dogs, moving for all animal lovers
Sasha really is a special dog, who will have the reader, as well as all the veterinary staff she encounters, rooting for her. If you happen to be the owner of an epi dog, I think you will find hope and practical advice in this book, which is also likely to be a source of inspiration to the owners of sick animals in general or to those thinking of adopting a pet with an existing health condition.
While I loved reading about Sasha and her canine companions and looking at the photos of this beautiful dog, I felt the book could have done with a little more editing to remove some of the repetition of phrases and facts and eliminate typos and punctuation errors. 3.5 stars
Sasha really is a special dog, who will have the reader, as well as all the veterinary staff she encounters, rooting for her. If you happen to be the owner of an epi dog, I think you will find hope and practical advice in this book, which is also likely to be a source of inspiration to the owners of sick animals in general or to those thinking of adopting a pet with an existing health condition.
While I loved reading about Sasha and her canine companions and looking at the photos of this beautiful dog, I felt the book could have done with a little more editing to remove some of the repetition of phrases and facts and eliminate typos and punctuation errors. 3.5 stars
November 11, 2018
Heartening & engaging story, one that most dog-lovers can relate to, myself included. Highly recommended for dog lovers 🐶 , people lovers and those who care for both.
November 7, 2018
I’ve just read this in one sitting. Truly a remarkable and special dog .
August 19, 2016
Sasha - Review by Martha A. Cheves, Author of : Stir, Laugh, Repeat; Think With Your Taste Buds; A Book and A Dish
While at the dog pound where we've adopted a number of dogs in the past, the girls took us into the rear office where, in a small dog crate, we saw a tiny, white puppy, with black markings, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier no bigger than a small rabbit. As soon as she saw us, the puppy went straight into 'take me home' mode, her tiny tail wagging at about a hundred miles per hour and her little tongue hanging out in an anticipation of some treat or affection. We were instantly smitten, even more so when the lady at the pound took the puppy out of the crate and placed her in my wife's arms. The puppy had been found in the gutter on a lonely street, shivering and almost dead from hypothermia, by a passing dog warden who did in fact think it was a dead rabbit. The warden estimated the pup as being no more than six weeks old. She would soon be on her way to her new, loving home.
I love animals, especially dogs, so when I find a book written by someone who loves them as much and more than I do, I can't help snatch it up and start reading. The dogs I've rescued in the past have all turned out fairly healthy but most seem to have a fear of detachment and become my shadow. In the case of Sasha, this is true except for the health part. It turns out that her problems are very extensive - she has seizures. Many people I know would have had their animal put down after their first bout. Not Brian Porter. He sees her through many and I'm sure more to come. And on top of Sasha, he has 9 other rescue dogs, some with health problems of their own. There are some great photographs in the book took showing Sasha from her puppy days to the present.
This book takes 'knighthood' into a brand new catagorie and one that should be recognized making sure Mr. Porter becomes the 1st. If you're an animal lover, especially dogs, you must read this book. It will make you appreciate people like Mr. Porter even more while bringing a tear to your eye as well as a laugh here and there.
While at the dog pound where we've adopted a number of dogs in the past, the girls took us into the rear office where, in a small dog crate, we saw a tiny, white puppy, with black markings, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier no bigger than a small rabbit. As soon as she saw us, the puppy went straight into 'take me home' mode, her tiny tail wagging at about a hundred miles per hour and her little tongue hanging out in an anticipation of some treat or affection. We were instantly smitten, even more so when the lady at the pound took the puppy out of the crate and placed her in my wife's arms. The puppy had been found in the gutter on a lonely street, shivering and almost dead from hypothermia, by a passing dog warden who did in fact think it was a dead rabbit. The warden estimated the pup as being no more than six weeks old. She would soon be on her way to her new, loving home.
I love animals, especially dogs, so when I find a book written by someone who loves them as much and more than I do, I can't help snatch it up and start reading. The dogs I've rescued in the past have all turned out fairly healthy but most seem to have a fear of detachment and become my shadow. In the case of Sasha, this is true except for the health part. It turns out that her problems are very extensive - she has seizures. Many people I know would have had their animal put down after their first bout. Not Brian Porter. He sees her through many and I'm sure more to come. And on top of Sasha, he has 9 other rescue dogs, some with health problems of their own. There are some great photographs in the book took showing Sasha from her puppy days to the present.
This book takes 'knighthood' into a brand new catagorie and one that should be recognized making sure Mr. Porter becomes the 1st. If you're an animal lover, especially dogs, you must read this book. It will make you appreciate people like Mr. Porter even more while bringing a tear to your eye as well as a laugh here and there.
December 21, 2016
I found the story of Sasha, a rescue puppy, to be less anthropomorphic than I had envisaged and full of hope and happiness both on the part of the owners and the epi-dog. Most interesting to me were the other rescue dogs in this fortunate pack, more particularly, Sheba, who had been used as bait by dog fighters. Not a dog owner nor particularly a dog lover myself, this book opened my eyes to many traits of dogs I'm not famililar with. Certainly, the author and his family give rise to a very special tribe of dogs, including Sasha herself, she of the perpetually wagging tail! Their home seems to be entirely centered on the dogs, though this is an impression which is probably not altogether true, as the author is married with a family. I think the message of hope and happiness ought to be shared by more animal activists, who do not share the author's joie de vivre in relating to his pack, and readiness to adopt yet another lucky dog into his life, and the lives of his family. I am sure the pack gives back as much as they receive, and the love they share is reciprocal. Many handy tips here for other owners of epi-dogs, and hope for a satisfying life for the dog in spite of its illness and many setbacks. As with human beings, a spirit of resilience, happiness, and hope is a result of genuine love.
November 22, 2016
I have just finished reading 'Sasha', the true story of a little puppy found in the gutter by a dog warden and taken to an animal rescue centre. This little dog was re-homed by the author of the book, and his wife. Poor Sasha has encountered several health issues during her life, but she has come through them all with her tail wagging joyfully - much to the relief of her owners.
I say health issues, as there are many, but probably the most harrowing is the fact poor Sasha suffers from epilepsy. Yet, with her 'family' by her side, she bounces back from even the most severe seizure. There is so much I could tell you about Sasha, but I think I would be spoiling the story for you. This delightful story is one you should read for yourself. What I will say is that there are lovely photos of Sasha throughout the book
This is truly an inspiring story. Not only because of the lovely Sasha, but also because of the author and his wife. They really are a magnificent couple because Sasha is not the only dog they have rescued. They have ten rescue dogs in their home and they spend time with each and every one of them making sure they are all happy. I cannot recommend this book enough. If you are looking for a book to lift your spirits, then this is the one for you.
I say health issues, as there are many, but probably the most harrowing is the fact poor Sasha suffers from epilepsy. Yet, with her 'family' by her side, she bounces back from even the most severe seizure. There is so much I could tell you about Sasha, but I think I would be spoiling the story for you. This delightful story is one you should read for yourself. What I will say is that there are lovely photos of Sasha throughout the book
This is truly an inspiring story. Not only because of the lovely Sasha, but also because of the author and his wife. They really are a magnificent couple because Sasha is not the only dog they have rescued. They have ten rescue dogs in their home and they spend time with each and every one of them making sure they are all happy. I cannot recommend this book enough. If you are looking for a book to lift your spirits, then this is the one for you.
July 3, 2016
Not often is a small but wonderful book written. This book is small, is wonderful and is written by a great writer. It is the story of his love of dogs and in particular his love of Sasha, his Staffy rescue. He and his wife must be saints sent to earth for the purpose of caring for animals. They have ten rescue dogs and it is evident from this wonderful book they love each and every one of the dogs in a special way. Sasha is their "epi-dog" which has had tremendous difficulty with epilepsy. I didn't have any idea dogs could suffer from that malady. I have never seen it before and never known anyone before who had to deal with the problem. Despite her medical conditions Sasha is a loving and sweet animal by all descriptions. I enjoyed the story of Sasha tremendously. Any dog lover would enjoy the book and revel in the love of this beautiful Staffy. Thanks Harry. This is/was a story well worth the telling.
March 17, 2017
Loved Sasha
What an amazing story, dog, family and vet practice. This story is about Sasha's life and her health problems and the challenges her family had to help her overcome them. A heartfelt story that brought a lump to my throat and tears to my eyes a few times. If you love dogs you should read this story!
What an amazing story, dog, family and vet practice. This story is about Sasha's life and her health problems and the challenges her family had to help her overcome them. A heartfelt story that brought a lump to my throat and tears to my eyes a few times. If you love dogs you should read this story!
August 28, 2018
Just finished reading this book yesterday in one sitting. I was not able to put the book down.
Sasha is more than a special dog when she rescued her family. Considering everything that Sasha has been through, her attitude towards life is survival and truly an inspiration.
The author is so passionate and talented in telling Sasha’s story. Looking forward to reading more of his books.
Sasha is more than a special dog when she rescued her family. Considering everything that Sasha has been through, her attitude towards life is survival and truly an inspiration.
The author is so passionate and talented in telling Sasha’s story. Looking forward to reading more of his books.
January 2, 2018
A smashing good read and a real pleasurable one for us dog lovers. It's not a long book, but it is well worth the money. I think it also gives dog owners a sense of what to do in an emergency.
I love Sasha and if I ever win the lottery I will be getting in touch to see if I can visit :)
I love Sasha and if I ever win the lottery I will be getting in touch to see if I can visit :)
September 17, 2018
heart warming
As a staffy Mum of 3, I could totally relate to the little quirks of your gorgeous girl Sasha 😁I hope she continues to stay as well as possible, with her terrible illness x
As a staffy Mum of 3, I could totally relate to the little quirks of your gorgeous girl Sasha 😁I hope she continues to stay as well as possible, with her terrible illness x
September 19, 2018
Unconditional love
Unconditional love is what pets can give to us. Unfortunately not everyone does that for their pet in return. Thank goodness for people like Brian and Juliet who fall in love with these exceptional dogs.
Unconditional love is what pets can give to us. Unfortunately not everyone does that for their pet in return. Thank goodness for people like Brian and Juliet who fall in love with these exceptional dogs.
September 23, 2016
Absolutely brilliant
March 25, 2017
A very happy dog
Well worth reading, I had tears. Sasha must have a guardian Angel watching over her. She has found her forever home.
Well worth reading, I had tears. Sasha must have a guardian Angel watching over her. She has found her forever home.
January 5, 2018
Great Short read
Great story heartwarming and proves a staffy love is unconditional and a totally misunderstood breed loved it highly recommended read
Great story heartwarming and proves a staffy love is unconditional and a totally misunderstood breed loved it highly recommended read
September 24, 2024
The Journey to Healing Begins Here...
Is there an earthly equivalence to the Biblical story of Job, one pertaining to animals? That some of our most precious creatures endure endless suffering for a divine purpose? Perhaps those animals that survive and thrive have something deep within their psyche, their soul, a knowing that their fate will lead them to the right humans, the right circumstances, where their healing will begin. I don’t know where in the evolution of mankind we learned to revere our domesticated creatures, but thankfully there are earthly saviors, people who are genuinely compassionate and determined to ease their pain with unconditional love, until the misery is but a distant memory. In this instance the humans are Brian Porter and his lovely wife Juliet. This story is of “Sasha,” a tiny Staffie pup left for dead in a gutter but with a tail-wagging spirit that wouldn’t quit.
The Porter house was already filled with rescues, but Sasha - no bigger than a small rabbit - was already in a “take me home” mode when the Porters found her recuperating at the local shelter. All of the family dogs had a wide array of special needs which required constant care, vigilance and enormous responsibility, but theirs was a “room for one more” household, and the 6-week old Sasha was welcomed immediately by the other dogs. At first, Sasha was in good shape, energetic, playful, curious, with no hint of the tragedies to come. But soon she experienced an accidental fall, complicated leg injuries requiring multiple surgeries, serious dermatitis, and the worst affliction of all - epilepsy. She experienced terrifying seizures, endless rounds of vets visits, and received mountains of medications. Brian and Juliet suffered as well in the worry, exhaustion, sleepless nights, and feelings of helplessness witnessing their dear Sasha in such physical torment. Fortunately, the UK shelter system afforded them expert vet care and enough insurance to get over the initial hump of medical expenses, but the cost seemed insurmountable and they had to seek help from family.
Porter’s books are a master class in pet care, told in meticulous detail, and are a wealth of information for other pet rescuers in similar situations. For Sasha, he dove into the latest research on dog epilepsy, looking for any new treatments and medications available. For all of their dogs there is no challenge that he and Juliet refused to meet, no responsibility shirked, no medical complications that made them give up. Like Job, all of the rescues had a resilient inner spirit that kept them from quitting, somehow aware that their days of misery were behind them, no matter the new challenges they encountered. How could he and Juliet do any less?
When it came time for Sasha to leave this earth, when epilepsy took its toll on her body, she was treated with tenderness and dignity by everyone who knew and cared for her. Anyone who has had to make the ultimate decision to help their fur baby cross over knows the feeling that your heart will burst with unbearable sorrow. For Sasha, condolences came from friends and followers far and near: flowers, cards, and remembrances, some of which are included in the story.
Porter’s love for all of his dogs is evident, but his devotion to Sasha is palpable, felt in every page, in every word and experience. There was a deeper bond between them that he had not experienced with the other rescues, a mutual empathy for each other’s discomfort, a mutual joy for each other’s happy moments. He explains it so well in the Introduction: “Sasha... is quite simply one of the most amazing animals it has been my privilege to know... despite the many and varied trials and tribulations that life has thrown her way, remains, in my estimation, the happiest dog on the planet.” Porter says that the book is Sasha’s legacy and he ends it with a memorable motto: “My courage is greater than my fear.”
Rest in peace, Baby Girl.
***
Is there an earthly equivalence to the Biblical story of Job, one pertaining to animals? That some of our most precious creatures endure endless suffering for a divine purpose? Perhaps those animals that survive and thrive have something deep within their psyche, their soul, a knowing that their fate will lead them to the right humans, the right circumstances, where their healing will begin. I don’t know where in the evolution of mankind we learned to revere our domesticated creatures, but thankfully there are earthly saviors, people who are genuinely compassionate and determined to ease their pain with unconditional love, until the misery is but a distant memory. In this instance the humans are Brian Porter and his lovely wife Juliet. This story is of “Sasha,” a tiny Staffie pup left for dead in a gutter but with a tail-wagging spirit that wouldn’t quit.
The Porter house was already filled with rescues, but Sasha - no bigger than a small rabbit - was already in a “take me home” mode when the Porters found her recuperating at the local shelter. All of the family dogs had a wide array of special needs which required constant care, vigilance and enormous responsibility, but theirs was a “room for one more” household, and the 6-week old Sasha was welcomed immediately by the other dogs. At first, Sasha was in good shape, energetic, playful, curious, with no hint of the tragedies to come. But soon she experienced an accidental fall, complicated leg injuries requiring multiple surgeries, serious dermatitis, and the worst affliction of all - epilepsy. She experienced terrifying seizures, endless rounds of vets visits, and received mountains of medications. Brian and Juliet suffered as well in the worry, exhaustion, sleepless nights, and feelings of helplessness witnessing their dear Sasha in such physical torment. Fortunately, the UK shelter system afforded them expert vet care and enough insurance to get over the initial hump of medical expenses, but the cost seemed insurmountable and they had to seek help from family.
Porter’s books are a master class in pet care, told in meticulous detail, and are a wealth of information for other pet rescuers in similar situations. For Sasha, he dove into the latest research on dog epilepsy, looking for any new treatments and medications available. For all of their dogs there is no challenge that he and Juliet refused to meet, no responsibility shirked, no medical complications that made them give up. Like Job, all of the rescues had a resilient inner spirit that kept them from quitting, somehow aware that their days of misery were behind them, no matter the new challenges they encountered. How could he and Juliet do any less?
When it came time for Sasha to leave this earth, when epilepsy took its toll on her body, she was treated with tenderness and dignity by everyone who knew and cared for her. Anyone who has had to make the ultimate decision to help their fur baby cross over knows the feeling that your heart will burst with unbearable sorrow. For Sasha, condolences came from friends and followers far and near: flowers, cards, and remembrances, some of which are included in the story.
Porter’s love for all of his dogs is evident, but his devotion to Sasha is palpable, felt in every page, in every word and experience. There was a deeper bond between them that he had not experienced with the other rescues, a mutual empathy for each other’s discomfort, a mutual joy for each other’s happy moments. He explains it so well in the Introduction: “Sasha... is quite simply one of the most amazing animals it has been my privilege to know... despite the many and varied trials and tribulations that life has thrown her way, remains, in my estimation, the happiest dog on the planet.” Porter says that the book is Sasha’s legacy and he ends it with a memorable motto: “My courage is greater than my fear.”
Rest in peace, Baby Girl.
***
January 16, 2024
Sometimes a beautiful little soul has a rough start in life. So it was for tiny Sasha, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, rescued from a garbage heap at six weeks of life. The baby girl has a waggily tail, no matter how bad things get...and times do become challenging: a leg broken twice at the same joint, skin allergies, and then epilepsy. Even with Sasha just coming out of surgery, that tail begins to wag again. She’s a charmer. All her dog friends at home (at least nine at last count) love her, as do, of course, her mom and dad, author Brian L. Porter and his wife Juliet. They go through many anxious moment with their beautiful dog’s woes, but they receive a lot of joy hanging out with her—even if she sometimes refuses to go for a walk and absolutely won’t go out in the rain.
Heaven for a dog would be living with a kindly, dog-obsessed dog-rescue couple like the Porters, and Brian tells the dogs’ stories in his Family of Rescue Dog Books. Sasha became so popular with locals and with readers that Brian gave her a separate Sasha Facebook page. The other dogs’ stories must be read as well. Brian and Juliet and their human girls have been occupied with doing good to the beautiful little guys they have loved over the years. Worth not only a read, but five stars, grateful for the heartwarming hours spent reviewing their individual stories. Sasha, the number one book and a well-told saga, came first.
Heaven for a dog would be living with a kindly, dog-obsessed dog-rescue couple like the Porters, and Brian tells the dogs’ stories in his Family of Rescue Dog Books. Sasha became so popular with locals and with readers that Brian gave her a separate Sasha Facebook page. The other dogs’ stories must be read as well. Brian and Juliet and their human girls have been occupied with doing good to the beautiful little guys they have loved over the years. Worth not only a read, but five stars, grateful for the heartwarming hours spent reviewing their individual stories. Sasha, the number one book and a well-told saga, came first.
August 24, 2019
I enjoyed the book and could relate as I have 2 rescue Staffies myself. One of them is a lot like Sasha in the that his knick name is "wiggle bottom" because he is always so happy that not only does his tail wag enough to clear the room but he brings his whole bottom with it. He also has the Staffie "smile." My other girl dog was also used as a bait dog before we got her and had to struggle with that but is very snuggly and attached to her owners. However, with time, our two dogs, like Sasha, are a HIT everywhere we take them and LOVE people and other animals!
The Book was not too long but long enough to talk about Sasha and how she came to be apart of their family and the struggles she and her human family have gone through after. They also pointed out that she has a www.
P.S. I'm not being overly critical, but this needs to be edited better, I was reading it casually and found at least 6 errors (wrong words and word endings.)
The Book was not too long but long enough to talk about Sasha and how she came to be apart of their family and the struggles she and her human family have gone through after. They also pointed out that she has a www.
P.S. I'm not being overly critical, but this needs to be edited better, I was reading it casually and found at least 6 errors (wrong words and word endings.)
November 21, 2021
Sasha not only tugged at my heart but brings back so many memories! When I was growing up, we had a white boxer named Patches who was my constant companion. We would go for walks together and she would lay next to me as I read book sitting under the big trees in our yard. My mom said that I was going to grow very tall because Patches slept across my legs at night.
When I was in high school, Patches began having seizures. They were horrible to watch and I cried not only when she was having them but when she would come out of them and be so confused. The vet said she either had a brain tumor or epilepsy but that the test to determine would likely kill her. So we helped her cross the Rainbow Bridge.
Brian Porter create amazing visuals in this book and I fell in love with Sasha immediately! Thank you for sharing her and I'm enjoying all of your books that I'm reading.
When I was in high school, Patches began having seizures. They were horrible to watch and I cried not only when she was having them but when she would come out of them and be so confused. The vet said she either had a brain tumor or epilepsy but that the test to determine would likely kill her. So we helped her cross the Rainbow Bridge.
Brian Porter create amazing visuals in this book and I fell in love with Sasha immediately! Thank you for sharing her and I'm enjoying all of your books that I'm reading.
February 6, 2023
Questions
The book was okay. Having had and fostered quite a few rescues I was surprised by the lack of connection I felt with Sasha. I think probably it was related more to the writing style than the pup, though.
A couple things I wondered about. First, the author mentions repeatedly about his "disability," yet every time Sasha needed to be rushed to the vet, it always fell to him. His wife seemed like a very passive, rarely participating partner.
Secondly, these folks have a LOT of dogs. Sasha had several surgeries and vet visits, many medications. It was surprising, then, that an overnight stay required their children coming to the rescue with funds. Maybe they'd depleted their resources, though money was never mentioned before.
I'm glad Sasha was loved and had a good life. The story could have been done better, in my opinion.,
The book was okay. Having had and fostered quite a few rescues I was surprised by the lack of connection I felt with Sasha. I think probably it was related more to the writing style than the pup, though.
A couple things I wondered about. First, the author mentions repeatedly about his "disability," yet every time Sasha needed to be rushed to the vet, it always fell to him. His wife seemed like a very passive, rarely participating partner.
Secondly, these folks have a LOT of dogs. Sasha had several surgeries and vet visits, many medications. It was surprising, then, that an overnight stay required their children coming to the rescue with funds. Maybe they'd depleted their resources, though money was never mentioned before.
I'm glad Sasha was loved and had a good life. The story could have been done better, in my opinion.,
August 1, 2019
Wiggle butt
I couldn't put the book down.I had to read it I I knew baby girl was okay ! I had a golden who won a trophy the best tail wiggle ! She wiggled just like SASHA ! She wiggled we giggled !!!! Nothing like a whole body wiggle!!! I love that you bring home hurting dogs and help them heal !
I couldn't put the book down.I had to read it I I knew baby girl was okay ! I had a golden who won a trophy the best tail wiggle ! She wiggled just like SASHA ! She wiggled we giggled !!!! Nothing like a whole body wiggle!!! I love that you bring home hurting dogs and help them heal !
September 19, 2019
It is so heartwarming as a spouse of a rescue lady to see someone that cares for their dogs so much . Especially a Pit Bull which we are not allowed to adopt
As a spouse of a rescue lady it is great to see someone who cares so well for Pit Bull which we are not allowed to adopt ,
As a spouse of a rescue lady it is great to see someone who cares so well for Pit Bull which we are not allowed to adopt ,
May 4, 2021
Very inspiring book.
My brother’s dog has epilepsy and watching her seizures is awful & frightening. Reading about everything that you & Sasha went through gave me hope that there’s always something new that can help with the epilepsy. I loved reading about all of the other rescue dogs. What wonderful people your special fur babies have found to love them!
My brother’s dog has epilepsy and watching her seizures is awful & frightening. Reading about everything that you & Sasha went through gave me hope that there’s always something new that can help with the epilepsy. I loved reading about all of the other rescue dogs. What wonderful people your special fur babies have found to love them!
September 9, 2021
Touching, Inspiring, delightful!
The story telling keeps your attention throughout. It is inspiring to know there are people who give so much to these poor animals. And yet you can't help but end with the knowledge you received more from them than you gave to them. All lives are enriched by such acts of kindness. Truly a delightful read.
The story telling keeps your attention throughout. It is inspiring to know there are people who give so much to these poor animals. And yet you can't help but end with the knowledge you received more from them than you gave to them. All lives are enriched by such acts of kindness. Truly a delightful read.
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