Without a doubt, a pet is a member of one’s family. For many of us, it may be our only family. While the loss of this companion can be quite devastating, even more overwhelming can be the need to seek emergency medical assistance for the animal but have little financial means to procure it.
Those with a Teflon soul would suggest, “If you can’t afford it, you should have never had the pet to begin with….” However, life is not always so black-and-white. What about the individual who loses his/her job? What about the financially struggling family who inherits a pet from a dying relative? With a little compassion, one can soon imagine many piebald situations which can provide us with a more omniscient understanding.
It is this compassion that sparked a thought in the mind of Karen Fullerton. The recent loss of her Siberian husky, Sergei, led her to create the Sergei Foundation in 2009. This is a non-profit agency that assists pet owners who might not have the financial means to help their injured pet in an emergency.
This is not a “drive thru ATM machine” for fast money! One must meet several requirements to qualify. This includes, proof of pet ownership and care, as well as proof of financial need. Those who qualify receive a one-time financial grant, with a limit of $1000. While this monetary support might not go far in today’s ever-escalating medical costs, the foundation offers insight into other sources for additional assistance as well as preventative measures to insure the future safety of the pet. As timing is vital, the foundation is prompt in its response and assistance.
While I do not personally own a dog or cat, I have extensive interest in our canine friends. It is to this accord that I recently attended the Triad Dog Games. As the Sergei Foundation relies solely on financial donations as a means for funding its support, this is its feature fundraising affair. The event was most enjoyable on every level. Its orchestration spoke with professional authority.
There was a multitude of events which one could enter their own canine athlete or simply spectate. This included: Flyball and disc competitions, obstacle courses, and jumping-- just to name a few. Vendors, offering a plethora of pooch products and services were also present. A stage, featuring live musical entertainment, provided a place to relax and enjoy the fellowship of the event. It was a great way to meet other compatible folk and support a very worthy cause.
Having helped over 300 dogs and cats, the Sergei Foundation is making a difference in the lives of many. One such recipient is Gracie. She is a service dog for a US Marine who suffers from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Gracie needed ER service to repair a broken leg. The Marine could not afford the care. The Sergei Foundation stepped forward to assist and prevented the dog from being euthanized.
I contacted Karen to discuss the labors of the Sergei Foundation. Passion for this monumental work can easily be heard in her voice. Starting an endeavor, such as this, is quite a mountain of effort to climb, but her determination has resulted in growing success. Karen is not one to accept complacency. The same spark that ignited the founding of the Sergei Foundation continues to flame. Presently, she is working on a book, Sergei’s Eyes, which will share some of life’s lessons she learned from her canine friend.
Upon ending our conversation, I could only sit and smile. I knew, without a doubt, that something good is happening. Karen and her team of like-minded souls are making sure of it.
That, alone, is something to bark about.
This was A Moment in America.
Please visit the Sergei Foundation and consider making a donation. You, too, can help make a difference in the lives of others.
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