As a concerned resident of our community, I am deeply troubled by the situation involving a 13-year-old dog, Sasha, who has been removed from her lifelong home and placed in a shelter due to an animal cruelty accusation against her owners, Mayor Ray Jackson and his wife Tina Jackson. After looking into this matter, I believe the true cruelty lies not in the care Sasha received from the Jacksons, but in her current confinement in an unfamiliar environment, separated from the family who raised her from a puppy.
Sasha, a senior dog, is now in what can only be described as “dog jail”—likely confined to a cage, surrounded by unfamiliar sights, sounds, and people, and fed unfamiliar food. For an elderly pet, this sudden upheaval is not only distressing but potentially harmful to her health and well-being. She must remain in this environment until a court hearing in September 2025, and possibly longer, all because of a complaint that appears to stem from a neighbor with an ongoing dispute with the Jacksons, specifically Mayor Jackson. This situation raises serious questions about whether the accusation is motivated by personal or political differences rather than genuine concern for Sasha’s welfare.
I have known Ray and Tina Jackson for many years, having first met Ray when he went out of his way to install DirecTV for me when service was scarce on the island. Over time, we became close friends, bonded by shared moments like enjoying Beatles music together, even if we don’t always see eye-to-eye on business or politics. I have witnessed Ray’s interactions with my own dogs — currently only 2, though previously it was 3 and 4 — and have seen his genuine care and affection for animals. It is clear to me that Ray and Tina have provided Sasha with a loving home for 13 years, raising her with dedication since she was a pup.
The true cruelty here is Sasha’s removal from her familiar, loving environment based on what seems to be a vindictive accusation. I urge the accuser to reconsider their actions and contact the authorities to withdraw the complaint. Doing so would not only spare Sasha further distress but also demonstrate compassion and accountability.
To the community, I ask: Is this how we want to treat our neighbors and their cherished pets? Let’s prioritize Sasha’s well-being and return her to the home where she belongs. I implore the accuser to act swiftly to end this unnecessary suffering. Sasha deserves to spend her golden years surrounded by love, not locked away in a shelter.
Sincerely,
Rikki Kay Swin,
San Juan Island
