Lee Asher had a dream that resonated deep within his heart—to create a safe haven where every neglected and unwanted animal could find love, protection, and freedom. This dream blossomed into reality when he purchased The Asher House, nestled on a vast property in Estacada, Oregon. Today, this place is a home to all his rescued animals, providing them with a life filled with care and affection.
Lillie: The Heart of The Asher House
At the core of The Asher House’s spirit was Lillie, a Saint Bernard that Lee rescued and nursed back to health. Lillie wasn’t just another rescue; she was the soul that made the house a home. Despite the sad end to her journey with Lee after eight years, Lillie’s story left a lasting legacy and a touching gift to the one who cherished her the most. Her story exemplifies the bond formed at The Asher House—a story of unconditional love and resilience.
Lillie’s Harrowing Beginnings
Lillie’s life before The Asher House was heartbreaking. She was found lying in a puddle, soaked and motionless, behind a dumpster on a rainy day. Animal control wasn’t sure if she was alive when they picked her up. Very ill and without a clear diagnosis, Lillie faced bleak prospects.
While she was housed at the South LA Animal Shelter, Lee visited her daily. Each visit, however, was painful as Lee watched Lillie lose her vitality, her hope fading as days passed. Lee wasn’t allowed to adopt her or even take her out for walks during those three weeks, which only added to the despair.
Source: The Asher House
Despite not having established The Asher House at the time, Lee made a vow to Lillie: he would rescue her as soon as he could. This promise was a glimmer of hope amidst the uncertainty of Lillie’s condition.
A New Beginning for Lillie
Finally, after three agonizing weeks, Lee was able to adopt Lillie. Bringing her home was the start of a challenging yet rewarding journey. Lee soon discovered the root of Lillie’s health issues—she had been suffering from seizures throughout the night. The path to her recovery was both mentally and financially taxing, but after six months of dedicated care, Lillie began to regain her health.
Source: @theasherhouse
For eight years, Lillie was more than just a pet; she was Lee’s best friend and truest companion. Her presence was the heartbeat of The Asher House, making her passing in January 2024 profoundly felt.
A Bittersweet Coincidence
Amid his grief over losing Lillie, Lee received a surprising piece of mail—a message about a Saint Bernard puppy in urgent need of rescue. The timing was uncanny, as the mail arrived on the very day of Lillie’s passing. The coincidence was too significant for Lee to ignore. He believed it was a sign from Lillie, a parting gift to him.
Source: @theasherhouse
Meet Ranger: A New Chapter
The news of the puppy, later named Ranger, came as a beacon of hope during a dark time. When Lee went to meet the new puppy, it was almost love at first sight. Ranger was not just a new rescue; he was a continuation of the love and light that Lillie had brought into Lee’s life.
In a rescue video, Lee expressed his astonishment and joy: “Right around the same time that Lillie passed away, I found out about this dog through an email we received. I just can’t believe this is happening. I can’t believe I’m about to go pick up this dog,” Lee said, his voice filled with emotion.
Ranger quickly became an official member of the large Asher family, destined to have a wonderful life filled with the same love and protection that Lillie enjoyed. Lee’s statement summed it up perfectly: “Lillie was my light, and it was so dark when she left. But, of course, she left me light at the end of the tunnel, and that light was Ranger.”
A Legacy of Love and Rescue
Lee Asher’s journey with Lillie and Ranger underscores the profound impact of rescuing and nurturing animals. The Asher House stands as a testament to the power of compassion and the enduring bonds formed between humans and animals. It continues to be a sanctuary where the legacy of each rescued animal, like Lillie, lives on, inspiring continuous acts of kindness and love.
