Photo Caption:  Matt Johnson and his adopted sled dog, Peaches (2004-2020)

When Cheri I were married in 1996 we bought a farm, moved in our horses and adopted a puppy named Sasha.  I remember bringing Sasha home for the first time feeling the overwhelming sense of responsibility I had to care for her and raise her as a member of our family.  Little did I know those decisions would lead us on a journey to be the founders of a horse rescue program called Sally’s Fund.  Over the past 17 years our rescue program has saved over 80 horses and lead us to be long-time volunteers and partners with UPAWS.  Through my careers and leadership positions I continued to have opportunities to leverage resources with law enforcement, companies, and community organizations all to benefit our four legged friends. 

What I will always be grateful for is the bond we have with our animals, and although we all struggle with and mourn their loss, it is that relationship I believe all animals should have the opportunity to have with someone.  This is why I volunteer for UPAWS and continue to support finding homes where animals will be safe.