4Knines Blog Home Page
April 2025 Spotlight: Doberman Rescue Unlimited
Giving Dobermans a Second Chance Nestled in the heart of Sandown, New Hampshire, Doberman Rescue Unlimited (DRU) is a beacon of hope for abused, abandoned, and neglected Dobermans. Since its founding in 1988, DRU has remained steadfast in its mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome Dobermans in need, providing them with a second chance at life. A Lifeline for Dobermans Each year, hundreds of Dobermans find themselves homeless due to neglect, abandonment, or changes in their owners’ circumstances. DRU steps in to provide these dogs with essential medical care, training, and a loving environment while they await their forever homes. From playful puppies to wise seniors, every Doberman that enters DRU’s doors receives individualized attention to address their unique needs. A State-of-the-Art Facility Doberman Rescue Unlimited operates out of a spacious shelter in a serene country setting, specifically designed to cater to the needs of Dobermans. The facility features roomy kennels, large outdoor play areas, a dedicated medical space, and an indoor training facility that allows volunteers and staff to work with the dogs year-round. This comprehensive approach ensures that every Doberman receives the care, exercise, and training they need to thrive in a new home. The Adoption Process The team at DRU is committed to finding the perfect match between Dobermans and their adopters. They conduct thorough assessments of each dog’s personality and behavioral needs and carefully evaluate potential adopters to ensure a lifetime commitment. The adoption process includes an application, reference inquiry, home checks and a scheduled time for proper introduction to other household dogs and family members to create the best possible outcome for both the dogs and their new families. Supporting the Mission As a nonprofit organization, DRU relies on donations, fundraising events, and dedicated volunteers to continue its lifesaving work. Whether through monetary contributions, supply donations, or volunteering time, supporters play a critical role in the organization’s success. The annual Open House and DRU Reunion Picnic, along with various fundraising initiatives, help sustain DRU’s efforts and brings together a community of passionate Doberman lovers. How You Can Help There are many ways to get involved with DRU and make a difference in the lives of rescued Dobermans: Adopt: Open your home to a Doberman in need and provide them with a forever family. Donate: Financial support helps cover medical expenses, food, and shelter maintenance. Volunteer: From dog care to administrative tasks, every helping hand matters. Sponsor a Doberman: Provide ongoing care for a rescue dog until they find their perfect home. A Brighter Future for Dobermans Thanks to the unwavering dedication of its volunteers, staff, and supporters, Doberman Rescue Unlimited continues to transform the lives of Dobermans in need. Each adoption is a success story, and every rescue is a testament to the compassion and hard work of the DRU community. 4Knines is proud to support Doberman Rescue Unlimited and their mission to give Dobermans a second chance. Your support can change a Doberman’s life. A donation to DRU helps provide medical care, training, and love to dogs who need it most. Join us in giving them the second chance they deserve.
Learn more
March 2025 Spotlight: Dog Tag Buddies
For many veterans, life after military service brings challenges that extend far beyond physical wounds. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and mobility limitations can make everyday life difficult, leading to isolation and a loss of purpose. Dog Tag Buddies was created to change that reality by pairing veterans with carefully evaluated dogs and guiding them through a two-year service dog training program—at no cost to them. As the wife of a combat veteran with 21 years of service, DeeDe Baker founded Dog Tag Buddies after witnessing firsthand the comfort and relief their own dogs provided her husband when he returned from Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2005. Her deep love for dogs and unwavering commitment to supporting Montana veterans fuel her mission, making Dog Tag Buddies not just a cause, but a true calling. Unlike traditional service dog programs, Dog Tag Buddies focuses on both ends of the leash. The dogs may be the easy part, but the real work lies in supporting veterans as they navigate the complex emotional and psychological impacts of their service. Years of operating in a constant fight, flight, or freeze state require new strategies, tools, and a strong support system to transition into daily civilian life. Through structured training, Dog Tag Buddies helps veterans regain independence and stability with the assistance of their service dogs. The process is about more than teaching commands—it’s about empowering veterans to shift from reactive survival mode into executive thinking, allowing them to regain control over their lives. Occupational therapy is also incorporated into the program, providing practical tools for managing stress, improving emotional regulation, and re-engaging with the world. This holistic approach ensures that veterans are supported not just in their training, but in their overall well-being. By training alongside their service dogs, veterans build a deep bond based on trust and mutual support. These dogs are trained to recognize and respond to their handler’s unique needs—whether it’s interrupting a panic attack, providing grounding during distress, or waking them from nightmares. Since every veteran’s journey is different, each service dog is trained to meet their specific needs—there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Beyond the veteran-dog partnership, Dog Tag Buddies fosters a strong sense of community, ensuring no veteran walks this journey alone. The impact is profound—not only do veterans gain a highly skilled service dog, but they also develop confidence, coping skills, and a renewed sense of purpose. With the support of donors, volunteers, and businesses like 4Knines, Dog Tag Buddies continues to provide life-changing service dogs to those who have sacrificed so much. Every trained dog, every empowered veteran, and every partnership is a testament to the power of these incredible teams. For veterans seeking a path forward, Dog Tag Buddies offers more than a service dog—it offers hope, healing, and the chance to reclaim their future. As the only Assistance Dogs International (ADI)-accredited organization in Montana, Dog Tag Buddies provides an added layer of security and comfort for the veterans who trust in their program. 4Knines is committed to supporting impactful organizations like Dog Tag Buddies through our monthly spotlight articles and by providing monetary and product donations. We believe in giving back to those who serve, and we invite you to join us in making a difference by supporting Dog Tag Buddies’ mission to empower veterans through service dogs.
Learn more
February 2025 Spotlight: Jack Jack's Pack Street Dog Rescue
February 2025 Spotlight Jack Jack's Pack Street Dog Rescue Jack Jack's Pack Street Dog Rescue was founded by Sasha and her husband, Chas, after experiencing the heartbreak of tragedy. In October 2021, their beloved dog Jack-Jack, a 17-year-old chihuahua with dementia, slipped out of their home when the wind blew their front door open. As they tirelessly searched for him, they discovered other lost and abandoned dogs in desperate need—so many suffering souls in rough shape who just needed a chance at a better life. When owners couldn’t be found, Sasha and Chas opened their hearts and home to these dogs, creating what became Jack Jack’s Pack. Though Jack-Jack was never found, his spirit inspired Sasha, Chas, and their family to help more and more vulnerable dogs who had nowhere else to go. Jack-Jack’s legacy lives on through the rescue, giving countless pups a chance at the happy life they deserve. Jack Jack's Pack is a true grassroots street dog rescue based in Pflugerville, TX. Their mission is threefold: to reunite lost pets with their owners, to rescue street dogs and place them in loving forever homes, and to rehabilitate injured and sick dogs throughout Central Texas. Since Jack-Jack went missing, Sasha, Chas, and their team have saved more than 912 dogs! Their rescue network now includes over 100 fosters, many caring for animals with significant medical needs. Day and night, often in dangerous situations, they respond to calls near major highways, dog-fighting rings, and properties where dogs have been abandoned, neglected, shot, or abused. They work tirelessly to find fosters, raise funds, and keep the rescue running, relying entirely on donations and fundraising. Jack Jack’s Pack takes in dogs in the most desperate situations—those many others turn away. Many are severely injured or neglected. Their standards of care are as high as they would want for their own pets, ensuring every dog receives a thorough medical evaluation, a loving foster home or a place in their own home, proper care, socialization, and enrichment while they await their forever families. They spare no expense in providing for these dogs—covering vaccinations, spaying and neutering, hospital stays, surgeries, blood transfusions, hyperbaric treatments, and more. Fundraising happens on the go—through community platforms, direct calls to their trusted veterinarians, wish lists, events, auctions, and raffles. Jack Jack’s Pack is a family rescue, and everyone helps! The work is challenging and often emotional, but their commitment is unwavering. They lead by example, sharing the message that every animal deserves a chance at a happy life. AND THEY HAVE A DREAM: To build Jack Jack’s Safe Haven—a sanctuary for all the dogs in need across Central Texas. Until then, they continue their mission wherever they’re needed, rescuing dogs on the run or frozen in fear—in junkyards, woods, fields, city spaces, back roads, and highway medians, no matter the weather. Jack Jack’s Pack Street Dog Rescue saves dogs who need hope, healing, and the chance to live a life they can love. Every day, they make miracles happen. Please read about the precious lives they save. 4Knines is proud to highlight Jack Jack’s Pack Street Dog Rescue as part of our monthly charity spotlight. Each month, we feature a worthy organization making a difference in the lives of animals, and Jack Jack’s Pack is doing extraordinary work! We hope you’ll join us in supporting Sasha, Chas, and their dedicated team of volunteers by donating to their mission. Together, we can help rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome dogs in need. Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Spotlight Nomination Form Learn How 4Knines Gives Back ➜
Learn more
January 2025 Spotlight: Missouri Pitbull Rescue
January 2025 Spotlight Missouri Pitbull Rescue Missouri Pitbull Rescue (MPR) was founded in 1998 and has since become a beacon of hope for bully breed dogs in need in the Kansas City area. Over the years, the rescue has grown significantly and is now supported by more than 70 active volunteers, all driven by a deep love for the breed and a commitment to changing the narrative surrounding pitbulls and other bully breeds. MPR’s mission goes beyond simply rescuing dogs; it’s about providing education, advocacy, and rehabilitation for these misunderstood and often stigmatized dogs. The organization is known for its patient, compassionate approach to matching dogs with their forever homes, ensuring each adoption is a successful and lasting one. The co-founder of Missouri Pitbull Rescue holds a canine science certification and has more than 30 years of experience working with bully breeds which has played a pivotal role in the rescue’s success. Her expertise, combined with the hard work and dedication of the volunteer team, allows MPR to handle a wide range of needs. Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and conditions—some may just need basic training, while others may require medical attention or emotional rehabilitation. Regardless of the challenges, MPR’s volunteers persevere, always striving to provide the best care possible. One of the volunteers’ favorite success stories is Bobo. This adorable (and large) puppy was found wandering the streets as a puppy. He was adopted but was returned to MPR after several years due to extreme anxiety. Bobo’s level of anxiety and size called for special care. When there were firework celebrations nearby, volunteers often spent the night at the shelter just to help calm his anxiety. Bobo was taken to swimming lessons as part of the regimen to help his anxiety. Everyone at MPR loved him, but they so wanted him to have his own home. After three years, Bobo found his furever home with a family who was educated in how to manage his anxiety…and he is living his best life. Bobo is missed by all of the MR volunteers, but he is where he was always meant to be. Missouri Pitbull Rescue’s success is a testament to the strength of its volunteer community. With diverse backgrounds, skills, and perspectives, the volunteers have formed a close-knit family united by their shared goal: to save as many dogs as possible. Their hard work, passion, and dedication create a nurturing environment where each dog is given the opportunity to thrive. Ultimately, Missouri Pitbull Rescue is more than just a shelter—it's a place of healing and transformation, for both the dogs and the people who volunteer. The dogs may leave pawprints on the hearts of the volunteers, but the volunteers, in turn, leave hope behind—for a better tomorrow and a brighter future for each dog they save. Since Day 1, 4Knines has supported the work of nonprofit animal advocacy groups, and this month, we are proud to shine a light on the mission of Missouri Pitbull Rescue. We encourage our followers to learn more about this amazing rescue and to join us in supporting their efforts. There are so many ways to help! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Spotlight Nomination Form Learn How 4Knines Gives Back ➜
Learn more
November 2024 Spotlight: Paws for Life Utah
November 2024 Spotlight Paws for Life Utah Paws for Life Utah (PFLU) has a vision to end animal homelessness and euthanasia. Their mission is to rescue and find loving homes for shelter pets. Cathy Boruch founded Paws for Life Utah in 2012. Cathy is a lifelong advocate of animal rescue who has worked with the challenges of large scale metropolitan areas as well as growing rural communities with critical needs for animal rescue and rehabilitation. Volunteers are the pulse of Paws for Life Utah with a shared mission to save the most vulnerable animals and enrich the lives of pets and people. PFLU volunteers encourage partnerships between rescue groups to create a “no kill” nation. Since its inception, PFLU has helped save the lives of over 16,000 animals! Rango is one example of a successful partnership. On a Sunday in September 2023, PFLU was contacted by a partner rescue with a young Labrador Retriever mix who was dying. The shelter, like most shelters, sadly did not have the capability to care for the sick dog. Paws for Life Utah was able to accept the dog, who was later named Rango, into their program. After being diagnosed with pneumonia and kennel cough, Rango received the emergency medical care he needed and then lived in a foster home for an additional 15 days until he was no longer contagious to other dogs. Rango is now completely healthy and is living his very best life with board member Heidi who also happens to be the 4Knines customer who nominated Paws for Life Utah for a 4Knines Monthly Spotlight feature! Paws for Life Utah also engages in community partnerships with local, law-enforcement, municipal shelters, and with educational institutions to bring awareness to the needs for pets and shelters. From obedience training for adopted dogs to assisting the public in Trap Neuter release for feral cats, they work together to find solutions to reduce the number of homeless pets in their community and beyond. In addition, PFLU spays, neuters, immunizes, microchips, and when needed, provides medical care for every animal in their care. 4Knines loves to shine a light on the nonprofit organizations nominated by our customers. We are honored to support the mission of Paws for Life Utah and hope you will consider making a donation as well. If you happen to live in Utah, PFLU is always in need of volunteers and fosters. Detailed information can be found at pflu.org. Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Spotlight Nomination Form Learn How 4Knines Gives Back ➜
Learn more
October 2024 Spotlight: Husky Education and Rescue Team
October 2024 Spotlight Husky Education and Rescue Team The Siberian Husky has become the third most popular dog among shelter pets in the US. They are also one of the harder breeds to own, and due to their beautiful appearance, Huskies often wind up in the hands of uneducated and inexperienced owners. Husky Education And Rescue Team is a 501c3 animal welfare organization who specializes in the Siberian Husky breed. Founded in 2017, H-E-A-R-T rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes Siberian Huskies along the east coast states. Their focus is rescuing Huskies from euthanasia in kill shelters. Over 1200 Huskies later, the organization prides themselves on their successful placement rate crediting the time they take to educate potential adopters and the public about the breed. H-E-A-R-T’s website provides a wealth of information on the breed and encourages potential owners to educate themselves before getting a Husky. The rescue often says the first key to successful Husky ownership is to have a great sense of humor. This breed will keep you laughing with their antics, but you have to embrace those larger than life personalities. It’s very important to remember a Husky isn’t just a pair of beautiful blue eyes, but a living, breathing, feeling, lifetime commitment. H-E-A-R-T is primarily a foster based rescue with a small rescue center in Maryland and a sanctuary in North Carolina. Their program is designed to handle 40 dogs at a given time and their rescue spots stay full year round. H-E-A-R-T takes on special cases such as medical issues, behavioral issues, seniors and bonded pairs in addition to highly adoptable Huskies. Additionally, H-E-A-R-T runs a breed specific training program known as HELP (Harmonious Environment and Learning Principles). Huskies are intelligent, independent and stubborn. Training this breed of dogs is not like training other breeds. Their HELP program is designed to support struggling owners with access to resources and expertise to prevent them from surrendering their Husky to shelters. Husky Education And Rescue Team runs solely on volunteer efforts and is funded by adoption fees and donations. 4Knines learned about H-E-A-R-T from a customer who is also a supporter of the non-profit. We are proud to shine a light on the work of H-E-A-R-T by making a donation to support their mission and hope you will consider a donation as well! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Spotlight Nomination Form Learn How 4Knines Gives Back ➜
Learn more
September 2024 Spotlight: Heart & Soul Dog Rescue
September 2024 Spotlight Heart & Soul Dog Rescue Heart & Soul Dog Rescue's mission is to rescue dogs from New Jersey's overcrowded shelters. Jacky, founder and president of Heart & Soul Dog Rescue, began volunteering at a high-kill, inner city shelter in 2018, but prior to this, she had been saving dogs off the streets for 15 years. Shortly after she began volunteering, and after the devastating loss of her second pitbull, Jacky adopted her first rescued dog. The new dog was chaotic, and Jacky had no clue how to handle her. So she enrolled in classes to become a trainer and decided to make it her mission to rescue dogs who were often overlooked because of behavioral issues typically associated with kennel stress. After working with many rescues throughout the years, Jacky realized it was her time to start her own nonprofit. So in 2023, Heart & Soul Dog Rescue was born. Jacky put together an amazing team including board members, Megan and Colleen, and volunteers, Melanie, Jonathan, Darlene, and Jordan. Utilizing their combined talents, Heart & Soul Dog Rescue has grown quickly, and in just over one year, the team has rescued 17 dogs and placed them in amazing new homes. Each Heart & Soul Dog Rescue success story is unique and may involve a multitude of approaches to include rehabilitation, socialization, training, and advocating for the underdog. Red is one such story. After living in a shelter for 2.5 years, Red was doomed for euthanasia through no fault of his own. Thankfully, Heart & Soul Dog Rescue was able to secure a board and trainer for Red and ultimately placed him with the most amazing adopter. Red has been such a pleasure since the day he was rescued and he is now living his very best life which is more than anyone dreamed could have happened. Another amazing success story is Ruger, who was rescued from a shelter in March 2024. Ruger arrived with two embedded metal wires in his neck and was covered in maggots. He had been so mistreated, Jacky’s team thought he would never trust a human again, but they had a great feeling about Ruger, so they took a chance on him. Ruger was able to be rehabilitated, learned to trust again, and is currently living in a foster-to-adopt home. These are just two incredible Heart & Soul Dog Rescue success stories - there are many more stories and the team will continue doing their best to always watch out for the overlooked and misunderstood underdogs. Most people tend to walk past the shelter dogs who are going crazy in their kennels, but Heart & Soul Dog Rescue gravitates toward these dogs because they recognize and understand the dogs are screaming for help. With a trainer on their board, Heart & Soul Dog Rescue is able to rehabilitate dogs with behavioral issues and get ready for adoption. After adoptions are complete, Heart & Soul Dog Rescue continues to provide the adoptive family with training. In addition, this amazing non-profit offers FREE boarding for all adopted dogs when their new families go on vacation (ample advance notice is required for booking)!. All rescued dogs come fully vaccinated, spayed/neutered, and trained. Heart & Soul Dog Rescue is a 501c3 non-profit animal organization that relies on donations from supporters to continue providing services to these amazing dogs. No contribution is too small! 4Knines also likes to support the underdog, and we are delighted to help raise awareness for Heart & Soul Dog Rescue as they continue to grow! We hope you will consider donating to Heart & Soul Dog Rescue so Jacky and her team can keep doing the hard work of rescuing forgotten dogs who deserve a new beginning. Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Spotlight Nomination Form Learn How 4Knines Gives Back ➜
Learn more
August 2024 Spotlight: True Love Rescue
August 2024 Spotlight True Love Rescue True Love Rescue, based in Lodi California, is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to the rescue of Golden Retrievers. Their mission is to rescue displaced, abused, abandoned, or neglected dogs and find them a well-deserved forever loving home. True Love Rescue places over 200 dogs a year and is committed to meeting the needs of the Golden Retriever breed both locally and internationally. True Love Rescue was founded by Board President Jill Morgan in 2012 when she adopted a Golden (Harley) through a partnership with a rescue in Taiwan. Harley was found in a landfill and was in poor condition weighing only 35 pounds. Harley became the inspiration for True Love Rescue, and although he recently passed, his legacy continues. Through continued partnerships with rescue groups in Taiwan, True Love Rescue supports the rescue of large-breed stray dogs - many of whom are abandoned family pets forced to live on the streets and are in desperate need of love and care. There are thousands of stray dogs living in the island nation. Finding new homes for strays is difficult and shelters are beyond capacity, so True Love Rescue flies rescued dogs to Northern California where many wonderful families await their arrival. The True Love Rescue team has grown over the years and is made up of a network of volunteers around California, Arizona, and Nevada. Their experienced volunteers are able to care for puppies, adults, seniors and special needs dogs. All rescued dogs are given a thorough physical exam that includes vaccinations, spay/neuter (age dependent), microchipping, and parasite testing/treatment. During the pandemic, many backyard puppy mills started popping up as the demand for puppies increased. True Love Rescue has been able to bring many of these breeding adults and puppies into their rescue and place them in homes where they never have to breed again. True Love Rescue is committed to shutting down irresponsible breeders and to give overbred dogs and their puppies a new lease on life. 4Knines is proud to shine a light on the tireless efforts of True Love Rescue’s volunteers. Please join us in supporting this nonprofit by making a donation or contributing to their upcoming Woof, Wag, and Wine fundraiser in Lodi, California. Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Spotlight Nomination Form Learn How 4Knines Gives Back ➜
Learn more
July 2024 Spotlight: Canine Companions
July 2024 Spotlight Canine Companions One in four Americans live with a disability and Canine Companions is here to help! Established in 1975, Canine Companions is the largest non-profit provider of service dogs in the United States. At no cost to clients, Canine Companions provides service dogs to adults, children, and veterans with disabilities and facility dogs to professionals working in healthcare, criminal justice, and educational settings. A Canine Companions service dog enhances independence for clients with a wide range of disabilities, including multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, stroke, hearing loss, developmental delay, veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, and more. By helping clients overcome physical, psychological and social barriers, Canine Companions service dogs help their humans live with greater independence. 4Knines learned about Canine Companions from a customer (Jimmy) who was recently matched with his service dog, Maximo. Jimmy has graciously permitted 4Knines to share his Canine Companions journey in his own words: "I am proud to say I have successfully completed my Service Dog training with Canine Companions Northeast Training Center. Canine Companions is a Non-Profit Service Dog Organization offering all of their dogs free of charge to their recipients. They are also the biggest Service Dog Organization in the country. During my training, I was matched with Maximo, and he will be my forever PTSD Service Dog. I had extreme fear and anxiety. I’ve been on endless medications, had endless PTSD episodes, and endless therapy sessions, but I’ve always known this service dog was the missing puzzle piece. To not feel judged by such a pure animal and loved no matter what means the world. To not have to rely on another medication or another side effect is truly amazing. In these short 2 weeks Max has been everything I could have asked for in a service dog and more. Maximo has brought things out of me that I haven’t seen in years of myself. Such as getting me out of the house a bit more, making me more confident, and helping subside my PTSD symptoms. Sure, I still have mental illness, but Maximo can help me live better with it. I dreamed of this, I worked extremely hard for this. And I am proud of myself. I am thankful my husband provided endless support and love during my ongoing battle with mental struggles and for keeping me focused on this end goal. Thanks to my husband and Maximo, I am excited for our future. I cannot thank Canine Companions for this amazing opportunity and their extremely kind staff. The trainers worked us hard, but it was all worth it in the end. The classmates I graduated with have become lifelong friends. I’m so happy for us all and our matches, and I am forever grateful. Cheers to what lies ahead with our little family." Jimmy’s story is one of many testimonials illustrating how the unconditional love of a dog, coupled with the extensive breeding, training, and care provided to every Canine Companions human-service dog team can truly be life changing for everyone. As Jimmy mentioned, Canine Companions does not charge for service dogs or for the lifetime of ongoing support they provide. As a result, they depend on private funding through donations from individuals, corporations, foundations and community organizations. 4Knines is honored to shine a light on the philanthropic work of Canine Companions! We hope you will consider making a donation to support their mission to provide expertly trained service dogs to adults, children and veterans with disabilities. Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Spotlight Nomination Form Learn How 4Knines Gives Back ➜
Learn more
June 2024 Spotlight: Cody's Friends Charity
June 2024 Spotlight Cody's Friends Charity Cody’s Friends is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, dedicated to improving the lives of people in need and their pets, founded by Cody Allen in 2011 when he was ten years old. It all started with a school project about John F. Kennedy’s famous quote, "Ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country." The quote challenged and inspired the fifth-grader, so he asked his mom if he could start a charity helping people and pets with donated pet food. Cody and his mom began making flyers and passing them around their neighborhood. For the next four years, they drove around in mom’s minivan picking up donations off of people’s front porches and hand-delivering them to people in need and to animal rescue groups. Thirteen years later, Cody’s Friends continues to support the crucial bond between human and animal welfare. Those in need will do all they can for their pet - even if it means feeding them their own food. In 2023, Cody's Friends distributed almost two million pounds of pet food and critical pet supplies, spending more than $125,000 on pet food alone - up from $87,000 in 2022. "Clearly the need is only getting greater. Pet food donations are down nationwide and costs for pet food continue to climb," according to Amber Allen, Cody’s Friend’s Director and Cody's Mom. Providing this crucial assistance now often means the difference between keeping the pet and the family together or not. Thousands of people in need in southern Arizona depend on Cody’s Friends for pet food. They come to weekly distributions for their own dogs and cats, they come for help feeding community cats, and more than 50 human service agencies like food banks, women's shelters, first responders, and veterans' organizations come weekly to fill their shelves with donated pet food for their own clients and guests, serving as Cody's satellite outposts. Additionally, Cody's Friends is an ambassador for Greater Goods Charities GOODS Program, providing donated pet food and supplies to more than 100 approved 501c3 rescue groups across the southwest. 4Knines is thrilled to feature Cody's Friends in this month’s Monthly Spotlight. We hope you will consider donating to support Cody’s mission! Cody’s Friends relies on generous donations to keep all these pets fed. If you live in Tucson, please also consider dropping off unused pet food or supplies at one of our 60-plus Donation Stations. Thank you for supporting Cody's mission of keeping pets and people together! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Spotlight Nomination Form Learn How 4Knines Gives Back ➜
Learn more
May 2024 Spotlight: Service Dog Project
May 2024 Spotlight Service Dog Project People are always wowed by the size and power of Great Danes but often don’t realize the breed is well adapted to be trained as service dogs. If its owner starts to fall, a Great Dane can provide counterbalance and brace, which is more difficult for a smaller Labrador or a Golden Retriever. This makes the work of the local nonprofit Service Dog Project (SDP) crucial. Based in Ipswich, Massachusetts, their mission is to create a partnership that enhances a recipient’s quality of life as they attain greater independence. In creating the partnership between Great Dane and recipient, SDP is dedicated to the values of respect, integrity, inclusion, compassion, collaboration, equality, and courage. Service Dog Project has provided more than 200 certified Great Dane service dogs to veterans, first responders, and people who struggle with their balance and mobility. Great Danes are bred, raised, and trained on the SDP farm. During the first month, they are supervised 24/7 by SDP staff and volunteers. After the dogs are fully trained, they are paired with a recipient and trained to meet their specific needs. As balance dogs, they are trained to walk steadily in harness and match the handler's speed. They are also taught to stop and brace themselves in case the handler falls and needs assistance to stand up. For several years, Service Dog Project struggled to secure much-needed donations. Enter Boston University’s College of Communication students. Students enrolled in the Media Strategies and Management course partnered with Service Dog Project to provide pro bono marketing and public relations support. Valued 4Knines customer James Grasso is a COM professor at Boston University who formed the COM partnership. James specializes in mass communication, advertising, and public relations. His students took on account manager roles, aiming to understand what the Service Dog Project most needed, deciding between a social media overhaul, fundraising outreach, and an updated website. “The Service Dog Project mission is so unique, and the way they train the dogs is so unique since Great Danes aren’t usually trained as service dogs,” says Grasso. “For this class, the course is designed to demonstrate to students what it’s like working at a real-world PR agency.” Grasso hopes to continue this partnership with Service Dog Project saying, “They need funding to continue, and so it’s a win-win for everyone. They need donations and exposure, and to get the exposure, you need people who have the talents I had in my class.” Service Dog Project’s president, Lynn George, is forever grateful for the student partnership. “They spun our company around, helped us get more volunteers, and got our new website up and running,” says Lynn. “They reached out to different organizations for donations, put up flyers, donated their time. At our open house, we had so many people here. I couldn’t figure out how to get Google to find us, and now Google directs to our website. Something that would have taken me three days to do on the website took them 10 minutes. They are so smart.” 4Knines loves to showcase unique animal advocacy groups in our Monthly Spotlight articles. This month, we are proud to feature Service Dog Project and also congratulate the students who helped this fabulous nonprofit garner much-deserved attention and much-needed donations. We hope you will join 4Knines in supporting SDP’s worthy mission with your donations. If you would like to read more about the student partnership with Service Dog Project, please click here for the full article. Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Spotlight Nomination Form Learn How 4Knines Gives Back ➜
Learn more
April 2024 Spotlight: Northwest Boxer Rescue
April 2024 Spotlight Northwest Boxer Rescue: Giving Boxers a Second Chance In a world where many animals are abandoned or left homeless, Northwest Boxer Rescue (NWBR) stands as a beacon of hope for boxers in need. With a steadfast mission and a dedicated team of volunteers, NWBR is committed to providing shelter, medical care, and most importantly, loving forever homes for boxers across the Northwest region. Northwest Boxer Rescue firmly believes every boxer deserves a chance to live a happy and fulfilling life in a caring environment. Whether they have been abandoned, neglected, or simply need a new home, the doors at NWBR are open to these wonderful dogs, giving them the opportunities they deserve. Northwest Boxer Rescue rescue efforts are made possible through the collaboration of passionate volunteers who generously donate their time and expertise. Together, they rescue boxers year-round, offering temporary care and unwavering support until they find their perfect match. But their mission extends beyond just rescue and rehoming. Northwest Boxer Rescue is dedicated to educating the public about responsible pet ownership and the importance of spaying and neutering to help end animal overpopulation. NWBR strives to make a lasting impact on the welfare of boxers and other animals in the communities they serve. At NWBR, no dog is ever discriminated against based on health or age. Every boxer entering into their care is evaluated, vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and provided with any necessary medical treatment before being placed in carefully screened homes. NWBR’s commitment to the well-being of these animals is unwavering, ensuring they receive the love and care they deserve. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Northwest Boxer Rescue relies on the generosity of donors and volunteers to continue our lifesaving work. Every contribution, whether big or small, makes a difference in the lives of boxers in need. Join 4Knines in supporting Northwest Boxer Rescue’s mission to give boxers a second chance at a happy and fulfilling life. Together, we can make a difference, one boxer at a time. Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Spotlight Nomination Form Learn How 4Knines Gives Back ➜
Learn more
