The Humane Society of Skagit Valley staff and volunteers deeply mourn the passing of beloved volunteer Theresa Ann Chason of Sedro Woolley, who passed away on Thursday February 20th. We extend our condolences to her family.
Theresa invested countless hours of devotion in our dogs, with her talents and knowledge in dog training. She would not just take on the dogs that needed a little guidance or correction to learn better dog manners—she would take on the truly difficult dogs that needed a true friend and leader to have a second chance at life. She spent hours with them, preparing each for their next adventure with new owners and a new home.
When Theresa's exemplary training skills were not enough to make a challenging dog work in the normal day to day surroundings of a family home, she would go that extra mile to find the right placement. If a dog had talents and needs that required a different environment, Theresa would find him a placement somewhere special, such as in the Boeing Bomb School for canine bomb sniffer candidates.
Theresa had more courage than anyone we've ever met. She understood that a disability was just a reason to fight a little harder! This was a standard she held for the dogs, the staff, and herself.
Theresa has not been able to be with us for about a year due to illness. Last summer, HSSV honored Theresa with the Clayton Award for her outstanding commitment in saving the life of a animal. We at HSSV can truly say she saved many lives.
Rest in peace, Theresa. You will be dearly missed.
