Instead of a baby abandoned at a fire station, someone ditched their dog, tied to a post with a note.

The full page handwritten letter reads in full:

Hello, My Name is Sasha.

I love Short walks on nice windy days And Chew toys!

I love head pets and tummy rubs that make my leg do this shakey thing, thats how I know its good.

My favorite food is Kibbles n Bits mixed with wet food and Steaks!

I absolutely love Steaks!

I’m 8 years old and want to go to a loving home where I can get lots of attention and the care I need.

I love other animals and children I was a good Dog, that’s what my parents told me.

I chewed up my back Because of anxiety, But else wise there isn’t anything wrong with me. I am up to date on my shots.

Did I mention I love Steaks?!?

Johnston County Animal Shelter Director Graham Price said Clayton Animal Control retrieved Sasha from beside a building after getting a call about the dog. An assessment determined Sasha is blind in one eye and underweight.

The dog uses his hind legs to constantly scratch at his back, sides, and stomach.

“He definitely has a chronic skin issue. It’s something we’re not sure exactly yet, whether it’s something maybe a flea allergy of some kind or maybe a demodex mange because he does seem to be an older dog,” Price said.

“From reading the note you can definitely think that the people did love this dog, but by the way that he looks you would not think that. You wonder what led up to this as far as what happened to the owner where they could no longer for this dog and allow him to get in that shape.”

Price said the circumstances surrounding Sasha’s abandonment will likely remain unknown, but he is certain in saying that this is proper way to handle finding a new home for a furry friend.

Johnston County Animal Services accept surrendered animals, but only by appointment. They do not have the capacity to accept pets without prior coordination. There are currently between 50 and 60 dogs and cats at the shelter in Smithfield.

A rescue group plans to retrieve Sasha on Friday, take care of the skin ailment, and place the dog in a permanent home.

“He’s going to be OK, he’s got somebody that’s going to take him in to their rescue and get him the care he needs,” Price said.

“If anybody is in a situation that they need to turn in their animal, it’s something that definitely nobody wants to do, but definitely try to speak with your veterinarian or shelter on ways to keep from getting happening, or for ways to get help.”

The Johnston County Animal Control Department is located at 115 Shelter Way, Smithfield, NC 27577, and is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The Pet Adoption Center is open Monday through Friday 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The phone number is 919-934-8474 and the FAX number is 919-934-0753.