My dogs saved me from an abusive relationship… and now I’m fighting to keep them—and myself—together.

Hi, my name is Ashlee, and this is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to write.

A few months ago, I left California—my home, my family, and my entire support system—and moved to Washington. I didn’t leave by choice. I left because I had to. I had to keep a roof over my head, but more than that, I had to keep my dogs. They are my family—my lifeline. They saved me when I thought I had nothing left. After escaping a domestic violence relationship, I was lost—broken—until they stayed by my side. They gave me comfort when I couldn’t find it anywhere else, and they have kept me alive in ways no one else could.

Since moving, every step forward has been a struggle. My car broke down, leaving me isolated in a rural area, with no reliable transportation. The closest bus stop is over an hour and a half walk, and rideshare costs are out of reach. I finally had hope when I got a job interview just five minutes away—but then I was told I have one month to leave the place I’m staying. No savings. No job. No support here.

I’m doing everything I can to stay strong, but the truth is, this has been the hardest year of my life. The thought of losing my dogs—especially after all we’ve been through—feels unbearable.

My only option now is to return to California, where I have a temporary place to go and a support system waiting. But I don’t have the funds to get there.

I’m asking for help to cover a U-Haul, a tow trailer for my car, and safe pet transport, so we can make it back together. Every dollar brings us one step closer to stability and a chance for a new beginning.

I never thought I’d be in a position to ask for help like this, but if you can donate, share, or just take a moment to read—please know how much this means.

You’re not just helping me move… you’re helping me keep my family, the ones who saved me, together.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you