After returning from the Best Friends Animal League “No More Homeless Pets” conference, I started thinking about all the time and energy so many wonderful people put in on behalf of animal welfare. I met people who run non-profits and work full time at shelters, and countless volunteers who are incredibly passionate about advocating for those who have no voice. The common thread running through everyone – whether they are saving animals, fostering homeless pets, supporting fundraising events and rescue groups, or devoting hours with their therapy dogs, is their strong commitment and tireless devotion to their cause.
This month we honor individuals who go above and beyond, call attention to the “army” of volunteers who make up this “force for good”, and highlight their many impressive contributions. Please take time to nominate an outstanding individual to win our November Contest- “Giving Thanks to Those Who Give Back”. Both the winning nominee and nominator will receive prizes (see contest rules). Both receive a $100 Dog is Good gift Certificate, and Dog is Good will make a $100 cash contribution to the animal welfare organization of the nominee’s choosing. In addition to the $100, Dog is Good will add $1 from the on-line sale of each “Do No harm” shirt in November.
As you consider someone you want to nominate, I want to take a moment to introduce one such person.
Debra Jo Chapuzio is a dynamic, inspirational woman with boundless energy. The relationship she has with her rescue dog Emma Zen (often found in the side car of her Harley motorcycle) epitomizes what we call “Dogvergnügen” (the unique joy one has in the presence of Dog). In other words, the bond and love between her and Emma Zen is so blatantly obvious that one can’t help but smile whenever the two walk in a room. On any given day, Debra Jo and Emma Zen are working to help others. As a team, they advocate for animal rights and pet safety. They volunteer as a therapy dog team for the Special Olympics, work with the Make a Wish Foundation, participate in countless events to raise money for cancer prevention, are active in the R.E.A.D canine literacy program, and regularly teach first aid for pets.
Debra Jo is always on the go, giving her time to make a positive difference in her community. She also started a non-profit to raise money to provide pet oxygen masks to firehouses across America. With the help of others, she outfitted every firehouse in the state of Colorado with pet oxygen masks during those horrible fires that recently ravaged the area.
Debra Jo and Emma Zen are definitely an inspirational team and we love them!
Enter here http://blog.dogisgood.com/?page_id=813
We look forward to receiving your nominations!
