Dozens of community members gathered in front of the Page County courthouse Wednesday evening to honor Rosie, a German Shepherd who tragically died after being discovered in a state of severe malnourishment.
The vigil, organized by Dogs Deserve Better Blue Ridge, a local nonprofit dedicated to rescuing dogs from abuse and neglect, served as a somber occasion for residents to mourn the loss of Rosie and reflect on the importance of protecting vulnerable animals. Despite the rain, attendees came together to listen to music, share words of encouragement, and offer support to one another as they remembered Rosie’s life.
The event came just one day before the owner of Rosie, Sarah Maiden, was scheduled for her first court appearance on Nov. 20. Maiden has been charged with a misdemeanor related to the German Shepherd’s death. Kimberly Hawk, president of Dogs Deserve Better Blue Ridge, stated that the organization plans to attend the court hearing to show support for Rosie and ensure justice is served.
“We have to be the voice for the animals – they don’t have a voice of their own,” said Hawk. “If you see a chained dog or a dog suffering from malnourishment or illness, call animal control. Don’t turn a blind eye.”
The community’s grief over Rosie’s death began after a photo of her, showing signs of severe malnourishment, circulated on social media in late October. Despite receiving medical attention, Rosie passed away a few days later. A previous photo, taken in August, showed Rosie in healthy condition, which made her tragic decline even more heartbreaking for local residents.
“To see those photos and know she suffered in silence – we all want to be her voice now, and we demand justice for Rosie,” Hawk said.
Wednesday’s vigil was not only about remembering Rosie but also about raising awareness of the broader issue of animal cruelty. Attendees, including pet owners like Leslie Miranda, expressed their resolve to prevent other animals from enduring similar abuse.
“No animal should have to suffer like this,” Miranda said. “They give us unconditional love, and they deserve to be treated with kindness and respect.”
Dogs Deserve Better Blue Ridge continues its mission to rescue at-risk dogs and raise awareness about the treatment of animals in the community. For more information about their efforts and how to get involved, visit their social media pages.
Related topics:
Two Dogs, Two Worlds: A Week with a Pugalier
The Fruit Dogs Can Only Eat With Caution: Cherries
Hunters Dog Holidays: A Career Change for Dog Lovers
