PETA applauds loyal canine

By David Young, Greeley Tribune

Published August 16, 2008 at 12:05 a.m.

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The loyal canine that stood by the body of her owner for six weeks on the prairie after the man committed suicide is being honored by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.

The German shepherd named Cash stayed by Jake Baysinger, 25, a resident of La Salle, and survived on mice and rabbits in the Pawnee National Grassland.

Baysinger was reported missing and suicidal on June 28. Cash was found Sunday near Weld County roads 73 and 104, northwest of Briggsdale. Baysinger's body was found nearby.

Melissa Karpel, campaign coordinator with PETA, said when members of the organization read about Cash's extreme loyalty, they were compelled to act. PETA sent Cash a gift basket of toys and treats, including vegan pig ears and dog biscuits.

"We were just so touched by Cash's loyalty we just wanted to recognize her and that she really went above and beyond to protect her guardian," Karpel said. "This is very unique story for the amount of time she stayed by her owner's body."

Sara Baysinger, the victim's wife, was shocked to hear that PETA is commending Cash's devotion.

"It's amazing that through this story, even though it's so sad, everyone is finding comfort in my dog," Baysinger said. "I think it is absolutely amazing, especially for PETA. . . . Everything they do and stand for I'm in agreement with. It's just awesome."

Cash's story has received national media attention since Baysinger took her dog home from the Humane Society of Weld County shelter Monday.

Cash, who was thin and dehydrated when found, is back home with Baysinger and her 2-year-old son, Lane.

"It's just been really comforting to have her with us and be able to take care of each other," Baysinger said.

dyoung@greeleytribune.com

• August 16, 2008

  3:43 a.m.

  Suggest removal

  happymike44 writes:

  This is not just a good dog,Cash will be remembered for being a great dog.
  All this dog survived in the name of loyalty.
  I think this is the best anyone could ever hope for Cash.
  She will be remembered for giving something to her owner he was missing love,companionship and loyalty.
  Still this story makes me glad Cash survived and was able to return to her family.
  Cash you went above and beyond the call of duty to serve your owner.
  May he rest in peace now and be in the lord's house.

• August 16, 2008

  2:06 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  maryhaze writes:

  i'd rather see a more reputable group honor her, but whatever.

• August 18, 2008

  4:52 p.m.

  Suggest removal

  Edom07 writes:

  I have never heard of any animal being so loyal to their owner!! I know the victims family very well and I cant tell you how much this saddend me I cant begin to understand why someone would do such a thing like suicide! All I can say is Sara I hope now that Jehovah can grant you peace out of this terriable thing thtat happend to you and your son! Just remember the words found at Rev 21:4 And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more, neither will mouring, nor outcry nor pain be anymore the former things have passed away.
  May Jehaovah bless you, your son and that awesome dog that you have!

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