One day, Carrie Long, a certified wildlife rehabilitator, got a call about a newborn raccoon in need last year.
He had been abandoned by his mother at the age of just three weeks when he was discovered clinging to life during a rainstorm.
As part of her organization, Texas Fawn and Friends, Long, who specializes in saving orphaned deer, chose to take the raccoon in. Jasper was his given name.
“We weren’t sure he was going to make it,” Long told The Dodo.
Jasper could only survive because of Long’s generosity and concern, and now he is returning the favor.
Jasper has chosen to make Long’s deer sanctuary his home despite reaching maturity and being able to go it alone.
He now peacefully coexists with the 75 orphaned deer cared for by Texas Fawn and Friends throughout the large area, but there is one in particular deer who has undeniably captured his heart.
Hope is her name. She also lost her mother when she was a little child. Jasper, though, makes certain she never feels alone.
“Jasper just loves her,” Long said. “When he sees her, he runs to lick and love on her. It’s just the cutest thing.”
Jasper and Hope’s endearing bond may be seen in the following video:
Hope and Jasper are doing well. And everything has been done on their terms.
“He sees her every day,” Long said. “In the evening, she comes and lays next to him. They’ve got a cool relationship going on.”
Long anticipates taking care of around 100 orphaned fawns this year; without Texas Fawn And Friends’ commitment and labor, none of them would likely survive.
Nevertheless, they are given an opportunity to succeed there, not only have their lives spared.
Carrie Long wouldn’t have it any other way.
“It’s very rewarding work,” she said.