Cashmere did not begin his life with the comfort or safety every dog deserves.
He was found inside a basement with another dog, waiting for someone to finally help him and show him that his life had value.
Fortunately, that moment came.
A Chance For Rescue
After animal control officers removed Cashmere from the basement, he was taken to a veterinarian for a thorough examination.
Other than several bite marks, he was in good enough condition to be placed with a foster family.
Two different people later claimed he belonged to them, but neither claim was valid. Once that was established, Cashmere became eligible for adoption.
He was chosen by a family, but it soon became clear that he could not live with their cat. Because of that, he returned to a rescue group in Washington.
At the Humane Rescue Alliance in Washington, D.C., Cashmere met Maya. Their bond formed instantly.
“As soon as I saw him, I said ‘Him! That’s my dog,’” Maya told GeoBeats Animals.
Building A New Beginning
Cashmere may be large physically, but his gentle nature stands out even more. Despite a difficult past, he has kept a kind and loving temperament.
He now lives with Maya and her partner Jonathan, along with his new little brother, a lively rescue dog named Banana.
Spending time with Banana is one of Cashmere’s favorite parts of his day.
“He is very patient with Banana. Banana is all over the place,” said Jonathan, Maya’s partner.
A Dog Who Lives For Affection
Cashmere still carries anxiety from his early experiences. New people can make him nervous, and he relaxes only when he is surrounded by those he trusts.
When he feels secure, he stays as physically close as possible.
“He loves being where everyone is. And if not next to you, right on top of you, probably in a really inconvenient, heavy way,” Maya explained.
“He dislikes barriers of any kind. Even if a baby gate separates rooms, he whines until he can be on the same side as his humans,” Jonathan added.
Cashmere is also remarkably sensitive to emotions. If Maya cries, he licks her face to comfort her.
When he senses conflict between Maya and Jonathan, he gently places a paw on each of them, as if reminding them to stay connected and calm.
He reacts just as strongly to positive moments. If the couple hugs, Cashmere tries to squeeze himself in and be part of it.
“He is my soul dog, truly. Through and through. I feel very connected to him,” Maya shared.