We are excited to announce, that Stiggys Dogs have been accepted to receive a Team Depot Community Grant!!!! Giving back is a core value at The Home Depot and a passion for our associates. Through The Home Depot Foundation and its ongoing partnerships with nonprofit organizations, The Home Depot donates countless hours, tools and supplies each year to community service projects.
Brig. General Carol Ann Fausone (ret.) sent me an email asking if Donna (our trainer) and I would like to attend a Legislative Breakfast with her. Anytime I get anything from this woman my heart smiles. Legal Help for Veterans have been huge supporters of Stiggys Dogs from the beginning, James Fausone (her husband), Paul Bohen, and the whole Law firm are group of wonderful sincere people. I jumped at the chance and said yes we would be there!
That morning was one that everything that could go wrong did. I was running late, a thing that makes me every unhappy. However, with Gunny by my side relieving my anxiety, we meet Donna in the hallway 10 minutes before it was to start.
The room was packed with people, warm and loud. Gunny sticking close by my side, leaning in hard on my leg (such a comforting feeling). I spotted the General, a warm smile and hugs for our greeting. Carol Ann was thrilled to see we brought a dog and she began making her rounds introducing Donna and I to everyone. We found a table, grabbed some breakfast as the meeting was soon to start.
A man took the seat next to me. I instantly spotted his green Shamrock Tie, for it was the day before St Patty Day. “Nice Tie” I commented as a fellow Irishman to another. “Well, I am not Irish, but I am married to one for long enough to say I am” said this man with a big grin. “I am Jack Kirksky” as he extended his hand for introduction. The conversation went smoothly from the beginning. He noticed Gunny, we talked about dogs, they have two dogs. He asked about Stiggys Dog and I briefly explained what we do. “I am Navy, and come from a long line of family who were Navy too” Jack said Proudly. “Ben was Navy” I said softly. Jack looked at me confused as I went on to explain “Stigys is in honor of my nephew, Ben…..” and the unexpected tears started to flow. Jack listened, patted my hand, said he was sorry, took my business card that was laying on the table, and put it in his pocket. The meeting was started, the conversation ended.
What a wonderful morning Donna and I had. This meeting was with the areas communities Mayors, Councilman, and Representatives. It was so interesting and I felt honored to be there. Donna and I meet many great people that were very supportive and interested in Stiggys Dogs. Gunny was the perfect ambassador, even when his foot was stepped on, tail ran over by a chair, he was closed in a small room with lots of people that at certain times broke out into a big applause. I was proud to have Gunny by my side. It was a good morning indeed.
Now, a month later I get a email from a friend that knocked me off my feet. For Jack Kirksy, who come to find out later, is the Mayor of Livonia! Sent a email to all the Council and Staff declaring April 20th, as ‘Jean Day’ for an organization called Stiggys Dogs!!!!! (‘Jean Day’ is wear if you pay a donation to the non profit then you can dress casually)
Chills and tears again, Mr Mayor. Thank you, from the bottom of my Irish heart….
If you’re in an area that has Kroger stores, you can now help Stiggy’s Dogs financially without spending an extra penny!
You know that little card on your keychain for Kroger? By taking a few minutes out and registering it, you can help Stiggy’s Dogs raise money through the Kroger Community Rewards Program. It’s a simple way to support Stiggy’s while doing your regular grocery shopping We’re excited to be part of this awesome program!
Here are the details:
You know you’re all set when you see “Stiggy’s Dogs” on the right side of your information page. It takes a few minutes to sign up and once you’re registered, you don’t need to do anything else but use your Kroger Plus card while at the store.
If you have any questions or trouble setting up your account, call 877-576-7587.
We are excited to announce that were ready to start our next training class!!! Yay!!!!
We welcome Veterans Jeremiah Perdo and Jim Taylor to our Stiggys Dogs family. We look forward to following this journey with you both….
We welcome Bentley and Brody as we train them as our next PSD’s! Stay tuned!!!!
Bentley (Jeremiah Pedro)
Brody (Jim Taylor)
If you want to follow Bentley and Brody’s updates, track their progress and donate to their training and pairing costs, click on the links below:
"The experiences and lessons I learned from working at a Humane Society, motivated my future. I have spent the past 4 years trying to make a difference. Dogs listen, love us unconditionally, are loyal and can be life saving. I am passionate about my goal of helping one dog at a time, and now one soldier and family at a time. I am proud to honor Ben and determined to carry on his legacy of helping others through Stiggys Dogs."Jennifer Petre Founder - Stiggy's Dogs
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