4pawprints oct - dec 2016 - 4 paws for...

�1

a-PAW-logies! If you're looking for the August/

October 2017 newsletter,

one of the links in the email distribution is wrong!

To see the most current pup-date

visit:

http://bit.ly/4PawPrintsAug2017



�2

4PAWPRINTSO

ctob

er/N

ovem

ber/

Dec

embe

r 201

6

The Second Time Around… By Jaki Waggamon

4 Paws for Ability has been a nonprofit agency for 19 years, making more than 1,000 service dog placements to date. Unfortunately, our 4 legged-friends don’t get to grow quite as old as 4 Paws or their human partners do. This hard, but very real, fact means a few things for 4 Paws. It means 4 Paws kiddos are going to continue outliving their service dogs and best friends. It also means that many will continue to need the support, guidance, and medical assistance their service dog provides. Our families know that this means more fundraising for them as the time comes - 4 Paws has always partnered with families to cover costs, knowing that so much more can be achieved with people across the globe working hard, instead of limiting it to the small staff in Xenia, OH. We recently heard from a family who has completed fundraising for their second service dog.

“This time around fundraising was so easy. It took less than a month. We got the letter in the mail on October 22 and were finished after our event on November 17. I'm sharing this not because I'm good at fundraising or did anything special, in fact I really didn't do anything but set up a fundraising page. It's because other people have seen how amazing 4 Paws is. Some of the biggest skeptics and critics when we were fundraising 8 years ago were the first ones to donate this time because they saw the difference that Blush made in Gabriel's life. Others jumped in with large donations when they watched Gabe's quality of life deteriorating so quickly after her death. We don't have wealthy friends, but we had friends that gave whatever amount they had because they saw Gabe and Blush together and the life she gave him. They gave their last penny when they saw her death steal his independence and knew that he needed another service dog. I say all this to tell you that it's not just the 4 Paws families that witness the 4 Paws magic, it is every person that spends any time with our children and their dogs. Thank you for what you all do at 4 Paws for Ability. You have truly given our family, and many others, a chance at a life that otherwise would not be possible.”

When you support 4 Paws for Ability, in any way, with monetary donations or gifts-in-kind, you are ensuring the success of teams like Gabriel and Blush. Whether you’ve been here since October 1998, or you’ve joined more recently - thank you. As we begin 2017, and we look towards the 100+ service dogs that will be matched with their new partners, I realize we have so much to celebrate. Thanks for joining us on this journey - I can’t wait to see all that 4 Paws and its friends, families, volunteers, and supporters accomplish in 2017!

�3

Front cover ....... The Second Time Around ................ Ben’s Corner Page 7 ................ Top of the Class Page 8 ................ Volunteers Needed Page 9 ….………… Going on and Coming up Page 10 .............. The Adventures of Piper Papillon Page 16 ................ Additional Supporters Page 17 ................ October Class Graduates Page 20 ................ Star Volunteer Page 23 ................ November Class Graduates Page 27 ............... Additional Supporters Page 28 .............. 4 Paws Puppy Program Page 35 ................ Pharmacy Saver Page 36 ................ December Class Graduates Page 38 ............... Fabulous Flunkie Page 38 ............... Dayton Ronald McDonald House Page 39 ............... Check this out! Page 40 ............... Want to Help? Page 41 ............... Check this out! Page 32 ............... Round of Appaws

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

DONATE NOW!Donate to our Building Fund!

Inside 4PawPrints | Oct - Dec 2016

http://4pawsforability.org/donate-now/


�4

I truly believe that there is no assistive device, no treatment, no therapy more effective than a service dog. Not only does the dog perform tasks that enhance the person’s ability to interact with their community and perform daily life skills but they provide an unconditional love and acceptance second to none. They never become frustrated with their partner and accept them no matter what their emotional state. They never pass judgement, never become annoyed, and never want to do anything other than to serve and love their partner. They change the way the world looks at their disabled partner. I remember when I got my first service dog, Ben, and people stopped seeing a woman in a wheelchair and started seeing a woman with a big, beautiful dog. I remember being at a conference where there was also a gentleman in a wheelchair. No one approached him to start up conversation, but people flocked to me to meet my service dog! There is no greater love I think than the love between a service dog and their partner. I’ve been blessed with 2 partners. The first was Ben, who many of you have read about and the reason 4 Paws exists today. The second was my truly beloved Piper. I never thought anyone could replace Ben but Piper was so incredibly magnificent I could not help but find her as my second soulmate and partner in my life journey. The sad fact is that although I would never want to not have a service dog partner, their time is limited. We develop this magnificent, supportive relationship with full knowledge that the end will come oh too soon. The average life of a larger service dog is 10 – 12 years and the average life of a small service

dog is 10 – 15 years. Having had my heart broken twice I am still willing to go on, to love another service dog, and to find that unconditional acceptance, love, healing, and helpmate in yet another service dog. The question is how do we do this? To me I think it is like having a baby. Moms go through crazy pain having that little one, pain some would think would be enough to end the continuation of mankind and yet, the love that comes from that pain makes the Mom crazy enough to do it again. We all lose parents, grandparents, children, best friends, and we all continue to love. Why? Because there is nothing at all on this planet and in life that means more to anyone than that feeling we get from love. For me, moving from one service dog to another is not so easy. It was several years after Ben before Piper came into my life. I tried several dogs during those years. I tried


4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

BEN’SCORNERGRIEF *deep sorrow caused by someone’s death

By Karen Shirk



�5

a Great Dane, named Indy and a Black G e r m a n S h e p h e r d n a m e d T C . T C unfortunately just didn’t have what it took to be working in public, not that it mattered, I loved TC but he was not the “one”. Indy traveled with me for a year or more but she never felt like my partner, I loved Indy but she was just not the “one”. Then River came into my life and worked as my service dog for years. In fact, who knows how long he would have worked as my service dog had he not been frightened by something in stores that caused an irrational panic when people came up behind him causing him to lunge forward and spin. As much as I loved him, he was never the “one” like Ben was. I had really given up on finding that “one” thinking that feeling died with Ben. One day a woman called and offered a small Papillon puppy with a crippled leg to 4 Paws. Perhaps she said this puppy could be a therapy dog or work in a facility that catered to disabled children. Gracie, or the Amazing Gracie, as we called her arrived weighing about 2 pounds and not being a small dog person, I was horrified and thinking I made a terrible mistake taking on a Papillon. Gracie set out to win all of our hearts and showed us just how loving, intelligent, and trainable this breed was. We had found a small dog breed to develop a training program for at 4 Paws that would allow us to meet the needs of families wanting a small dog. As I searched for a couple Papillons to start our own Papillon breeding program, I was offered Gracie’s litter sister. Shortly thereafter Piper arrived at 4 Paws. At that time, 4 Paws For Ability operated out of my home. So, Piper joined Gracie and I at 4 Paws and Piper began to worm her way into my heart. When Piper was about 11 months old I noticed, she engaged in a very strange behavior, where she would jump into my lap and paw frantically at me, and soon after I would

have a Myasthenia exacerbation. Knowing about medical alert though 4 Paws I began to journal her behavior and by the time she was 18 months old it was clear, Piper knew before I had any symptoms at all that I w o u l d h a v e a M y a s t h e n i a G r a v i s exacerbation. What did this mean? By taking extra medication I could avoid hospitalization and the total shut down of my diaphragm by listening to this tiny, furry dog. I can’t say that I met Piper and it was all over, head over heels in love but more so that as she alerted and as that changed my


Ben’s Corner Continued 4P

AWPR

INTS

Oct

/Nov

/Dec

201

6



�6

life in new and wonderful ways, and as she began to travel with me, our love grew. I think it was more like an arranged marriage lol. All I knew is that one day I looked at her and I swear, I loved her more than I ever loved Ben. She had become my life and a true extension of myself. I felt as if we were one. Piper spent her days looking at me with such a love in her eyes that I have never seen in any other eyes. I could wake up at night and she would be looking at me. Her personality was contagious, with Facebook everyone began to love Piper. She actually had more than 1000 friends on Facebook! Everywhere I went whether at 4 Paws or out and about she was there beside me. In fact people would come up and say “Is that THE Piper Papillon?” Piper and I had 12 years together (perhaps that is why I loved her more than Ben who died at 8 years of age – maybe love grows even stronger with each year that passes). We saw 4 Paws go from a house on Dayton Avenue, to the VFW hall, and into the brand-new state-of-the-art building it is today. We traveled all over the United States and even to Germany and Switzerland! My life could not have been any better. Unfortunately, on January 29, 2016 Piper was taken from me suddenly, with no warning. I just woke up to find her struggling to breathe. No one really knows why she died only an hour later. It is thought she had cancer in her heart or lungs that bled out that morning filling her lungs with blood. What I know is that my heart was ripped from my chest and I had no idea how I would go on. With Ben I knew I could train another dog to do mobility work, and we did with River, but with Piper her alert was natural. Yet, even more than the life altering/saving alert Piper was a part of me, a partner, a soulmate, and to never see her again was more than I could handle. The depression I felt that day has stayed with me, though lesser, and still sits within my heart to this day. For the longest time I think I operated on auto pilot. Yes, now a year later the pain is more manageable but the pain is there and I think will always be there; it’s like a new normal that I live with. Life does go on after our service dogs pass. We are enriched by our time with them and we can learn to love another but the pain I think stays forever as well. As with the years after Ben, no dog has been able to step into Piper’s shoes and as it was with River, I have Pippa who does alert, and does travel with me, and is working as a service dog


4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016 Ben’s Corner Continued



�7

but has not taken the “one” spot. That spot that Piper stepped into where she became more than a service dog and indeed a life partner, like Ben before her. Will Pippa one day take that place or will it be her Grandson Boone who looks eerily like her without the Piper “kiss” on the side of his nose, or will it be her Granddaughter, Unique who like Piper, will spend hours licking me and cuddling and never lets me pet her without “petting” me back with her kisses. I will note that Piper passed her alert to Boone and Unique! Right now I do not know. I think only time will tell but I do know this, Piper will always be with me in my heart. I wish I had known January 27, 2016 (today’s date as I write this) that I had only one day left with her. I would have held her close all day. Today I am warmed by the thought that so many loved her. As we prepare to celebrate her life on January 29, 2017 I am touched by the outpouring of love. I am proudly wearing my Pink for Piper shirt, and just was blessed with Pink for Piper cupcakes from a 4 Paws client/volunteer, I have Papillon Matti Mats to auction off on her day of celebration where we will raise money to place “Piper’s” as medical alert dogs with others who need a Piper in their life. By the time you read this Pink for Piper day will have come and gone but I hope if you missed it you will join us in celebrating her love and zest for life again next year on Pink for Piper day 2018.


4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016 Ben’s Corner Continued



�8

Top of the Class Congrats to 4 Paws Fall University Program Graduates!


4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

Hermoine University of Kentucky Lexie Magnani Biology

Brewster University of Kentucky Joie Filippini English

Figaro University of Dayton Linda Moodie Megan Aponte Industrial Engineering Tech.

Slowpoke Wright State University Tyler Gregory Organizational Leadership

Bellweather Ohio State University Whitley Williams Education and Human Ecology

Rossa Shonda Jones Rehabilitation Services



�9


Becoming a volunteer is a great way to build

character, boost confidence, mold a

better community and increase your skill

development! 4 Paws for Ability is in need of

all helping hands willing to help us fulfill our general mission. We have a huge need for volunteer dog

walkers and groomers, as well as other facility helpers. This includes bathing and brushing which is very

i m p o r t a n t f o r m a i n t a i n i n g a healthy, happy and well behaved dog.

F.A.Q’s

Q. What age is too young or too old to volunteer at 4 Paws?

A. All ages are welcome to volunteer at 4 Paws!

Q. C a n I vo l u n t e e r o n weekends?

A. Yes! Once you’ve completed orientation, and any needed training you are able to volunteer on weekends until 8 p.m.

Volunteer opportunities

Our volunteer program is an ever growing program that offers lots of dif ferent opportunities for volunteers, such as general grooming, outdoor help, facility help, office aide, puppy play, dog walking, dog socialization, and a whole lot more!

C o n t a c t u s t o d a y ! Feel free to contact via email anytime [email protected]

General facility hours are 9 a . m . - 5 p . m . M - F - (937)374-0385

Volunteers needed!

4 Paws for Ability2016 4 PAWS FOR ABILITY - 253 DAYTON AVE - XENIA,OHIO 45385

4 Paws for Ability is a non-profit organization that aims to provide service dogs to Children with disabilities and military veterans.

4 Paws for Ability

4 Paws for Ability is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to place quality service dogs with children with disabilities and veterans who have lost use of limbs or hearing; help with animal rescue, and educate the public regarding use of service dogs in public places.

4 PAWS S I N C E 1 9 9 8

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

mailto:[email protected]




�10

4 Paws - Going On and Coming Up


4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

Event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/259380767824171/

Event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/932606083550603/

How To Dance in Ohio Screening

The ReelAbilities Film Festival will be screening How to Dance in Ohio benefitting 4 Paws on Sunday, March 12 from 4-6 PM. Tickets are $11. 4 Paws Trainer, Shelby Bottger, and Demo Dog, Pixie, will be performing a freestyle dog dance after the movie. Also, if you have any gently used formal/prom dresses you'd like to donate, please bring to the movie. These will be donated to Kenzie's Closet who provides prom attire for young ladies attending accredited high schools in the Tri-State area. Services are provided at no cost to Juniors and Seniors with financial need.

Ticket link: http://bit.ly/4PawsReelAbilities2017

http://bit.ly/4PawsReelAbilities2017

https://www.facebook.com/events/259380767824171/




http://bit.ly/4PawsReelAbilities2017



�11

Hey! Belle Ame here to tell you all about 4 Paws trip to Vancouver, Canada! Yes, indeed for the second time in one year I had to use my passport. I am now as internationally well-traveled as Piper (who went to Germany and Switzerland) since I have been to the Bahamas and Canada! My traveling companions on this trip were Karen (of course), Erin, and Rinaldo. We went to the Child Neurology Society (CNS) convention with Eisai! I was so excited because you know 4 Paws loves Eisai and of course our 4 Paws bestie, Paula Diamond. It was all so, so exciting! Of course being a seasoned traveler made it so much easier and fun! We got to fly though the air again, so I could continue my search for the rainbow bridge. It is safe to say it is not in the clouds above Canada either, but surly one day I will spot it and see Piper Papillon running the show! Vancouver is really a cool place EXCEPT……… RAIN, OMG, IT NEVER STOPS. Okay so can you imagine my dismay at having to get my little feetsies wet and just imagine if you had to potty outside where it is cold and wet! We arrived a day early, so we spent the first day looking for ponchos. We knew we would need them because Erin asked our taxi driver from the airport about the rain. “Will it rain a lot?” His reply “baaaaaaahahahahahahahahaha, sometimes a little, sometimes a lot, but always rain.” OMG! That is all I can say because he was sooooooooooo right. They should be building an Ark, just sayin’. You never know with all that rain. Okay so Vancouver is a strange place. It was raining every day, but each time we entered a store we would ask if they sold any rain ponchos. “Nope! Only during the rainy season.”

WHAT??????? If this is not rainy season, I do not want to go to Vancouver during what they call the rainy season without that ark I mentioned earlier! So we searched for hours! Everyone would say, “Oh, they will definitely have them over at xyz,” but then nope! Finally we found a doggie boutique and at least I was able to get a nice raincoat but Karen was just out of luck! On the way home we went through a part of town called “gaslight district” and there were many stores that sold souvenirs and one had ponchos! We were all set now for the rest of the stay.

DONATE NOW!

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016 The Adventures of Piper Papillon

Starring Belle Ame & Pippa



�12

The next day we got to go to the convention center. I was a bit dysregulated. There was a huge fish standing on its tail right outside the door we had to go in. I mean this was Moby Dick! I have heard all about this man foolish enough to be swallowed by a giant fish once and didn’t want a story written about a Papillon swallowed by a whale fish! However, I was able to get a good look at the monstrosity as we got closer and the thing was made of giant Legos LOL. We were at the Medikidz booth which I have heard all about. These are superheroes from the comic book my friend Flame is in with her partner Joel. The comic she is in is about Epilepsy and seizure alert dogs. Working the booth is so much fun. I got to talk to many neurologists and brain specialists to tell them about medical alert dogs. Of course we also met up with Paula! So, as usual we got to take advantage of our time in the new city AND country, to look around. We got to visit the aquarium. I am a pro with those after the sharks tried to eat us in the Bahamas. Vancouver is right on the water so we took long walks along the shoreline. What a beautiful country. We went to China Town and saw Koi fish that I swear were bigger than me. We ate in China Town also. I don’t recommend it as Karen and Erin were making crazy faces. I think they preferred the many seafood restaurants that we visited. We also visited Science World there and saw many spectacles including a spider that I know was bigger than me, I swear! You do not want to meet such a creature that is not carefully secured behind glass.

Okay, so we had a problem in Vancouver, but first let me tell you this good thing: If you use a wheelchair like Karen, this is the place to visit. You could get a wheelchair taxi in minutes! This city is so disability friendly. The problem???? Well, one day we decided to try somewhere new for breakfast. We had been enjoying the in hotel breakfast bar each morning but had seen a café with homemade food and decided to try it. So we entered and took a seat and the problem…… They refused to serve us! Karen and Erin explained we were service dogs and showed our credentials but they did not care to see them they just wanted us out. A rude customer was agreeing saying dogs should not be around food! After explaining they were breaking the law we left and were happily received at Panera! THANKS PANERA! Well, we posted our troubles on FB and an uprising occurred. People started calling, emailing, and Facebooking the café, stating how sad it was they refused a disabled person and their service dog.

DONATE NOW!

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016 Adventures Continued

Oh my gosh, do I have to alert to everything?! Your phone is about to fall! Piper didn’t tell me how

much work this was…



�13

The café was very sorry, though I don’t think it was about not feeding us as much as it was about the bad press. Parting lessons from Belle Ame? - If you own a business you should know all the laws, especially the service dog ones because people get very angry when you deny a service dog and their partner entry. It’s just not good business. - Before you become dysregulated look to see if the source of your problem is made of Legos.

Hey, Pippa joining you for part two of this article. My adventures took me to Houston, Texas for the American Epilepsy Society (AES) convention with Eisai! Boy was I glad it was an Eisai event because Belle Ame was thinking she was pretty special she spent so much time with Paula and it was kind of nauseating that she thought she was so special. Now I could flaunt my trip in her face! Okay, so I am really not that kind of dog (paws crossed behind my back). I had learned all about flying from Boone, Piper, and Belle Ame so I was prepared for the world disappearing below me. As instructed I searched the clouds in route to find Piper but I can say with certainty that heaven is not in the clouds in route or above Houston, Texas. So, I have heard the most amazing stories about Piper’s travels and I was prepared for the best. After completing the whole trip I can say that it truly is amazing, but if you had asked me the second day I would have told you to never, ever travel anywhere. Once we arrived we went to a place in the airport called supershuttle and gave them our names only to find that somehow our reservation did not go through and there was no wheelchair shuttle to be found. They would call us one but we had to wait. So we did. It was already late and we were tired, but what could we do? So we were waiting. About 45 minutes of Pokemon Go hunting later,

the shuttle arrives and we get to the hotel. I think it was like 10:30 at night. We go in and check into the hotel and I swear it took like 20 minutes to check in! After we are all done, instead of room keys we are told, “I am sorry but we overbooked and we are sending you to another hotel for the night”. WAIT WHAT????? How is this, we made our reservations months ago! Well it appears another group needed to stay longer, me? I say the other group, they go to the hotel because they did not reserve the room to “stay longer”! But alas, they do not see the rightness in this thinking and tell us a taxi will come to take us to the new hotel. So we wait, and wait, and wait. An hour later they are apologizing, it seems wheelchair taxis are not plentiful in Houston. They offer us some food to eat, okay food, I’m okay with that. So we wait and wait and wait and just as they come with the food, 2 hours after we checked in and now

DONATE NOW!

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2




�14

midnight, the taxi arrives! Do you think they send the food with us, no, they just offer us a coke! Out we go to get in the taxi. It is an old man driving and he takes like 30 minutes to get Karen’s wheelchair all tied down in the back before we take off but finally we did start out on the journey to the new hotel. Karen opens Pokemon, and settles back for the ride. We turn right and right and right, and right again and then stop. We look up in surprise and say to Erin, “We are not here are we?” and she is laughing, like a crazy person at 12 midnight with no sleep. She blurts out to us that we will not believe this. We are here and we can SEE the sign for our first hotel! We are one block away across the street! ONE BLOCK, WE WAITED TWO HOURS TO GO ONE BLOCK! We could have walked across the street and been there in one minute! Now it takes another 30 minutes for the old man to get Karen freed from the many ties to get her back out of the taxi. We were not amused. Once inside we tell the woman we are here from the Hilton for the night. She is looking in her computer and shaking her head, and looking and shaking her head, and looking and finally she says, “They sent me too many people, I have only one room you can share.” WHAT! We came with Erin and Erin brought Levee, a young boy who is quite large and wants to play with me to my dismay. No, this can not happen. We make this clear. SO the woman starts calling people. These people she is calling now at 1:30 a.m. are her regular guests due in the next day. Yes, she is calling them at 1:30 a.m., I would not be a regular there anymore! Well, this lady was not due in until late the next day so she gave us her room. I think we finally got to sleep about 3 a.m.! What a crazy first impression of traveling but wait….. In the morning we had to meet Paula and Eisai bright and early so we got up, and no we were

not calling the taxi! We get our bags and we look outside and it is cloudy but dry so off we go. We make it as far as the stoplight on the corner between the hotels and the heavens opened up. If Piper is the one who pulled that lever I will find her at the rainbow bridge one day! It was pouring rain and I was drenched to the bone! My hair was hanging in puddles around me in Karen’s lap. It was horrid. The light just stayed red and stayed, it felt like hours and I got wetter and wetter and started to shake! When we finally got across the street and into the hotel, people were staring at us, I’m sure we were quite the spectacle. Two wet people pulling wet baggage and two dogs with long hair drenched to the bone! We went up to the desk and through clenched teeth Karen asks for the head person in charge. Poor lady made the mistake of asking what happened and Karen boiled over. Two sentences in she ran to get the head guy. As he is

DONATE NOW!

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2




�15

making calls demanding whole floors of maids to run to a certain room to clean it and to bring heated towels, Karen is demanding restitution. What does he offer her? Hilton reward points. Oh Lord what a mistake. With threats to call corporate to let them know how they treat not only their guests but guests with disabilities, and the full story without one detail left, out we got our room free and Erin’s 4 nights for the cost of 2. They bring a huge pile of hot, dry towels and escort us to a room to change and get ready for the meeting. Everyone had heard about our night and was quick to run and talk to us about it. We met up with all our favorite Eisai friends and got set up in our first ever time in the SAME booth with Eisai!!! How cool is that? I got to make 4 Paws/Eisai history. The hotel texted Karen about every hour. Ms. Karen, we have one of your rooms ready. Ms. Karen we have your other room ready. Ms. Karen, do you need anything? Ms. Karen I am off tomorrow but Mr. Jeff will be able to help you if you need anything. Karen thinks they are afraid they are going to be sued. They do not know Karen is not mean like that and is happy for the free hotel room. We had a great first day. We met a lot of people at the other booths who all thought I was Piper. Weird we look nothing alike. They were all saying how we moved on up to the big time, being in the very nice Eisai booth! It was a fantastic day after a horrid night and morning. We were able to get from the conference room to the hotel without going outside which is why we went with that hotel to begin with so we headed back to the room to find lots of goodies. I think the hotel was very sorry for all we went through. There was a big tray in each room filled with human goodies and a big box of milkbones too! So we got to have dinner with Paula twice. Once just us and Erin and once with all of Eisai! Both were wonderful. As per all our trips, we got to visit Houston as well. There was a big park right across the street with an ice skating rink (yes in 50 degree weather!), a cool tree lighted path with giant lit up flowers, a cool light sculpture where the lights danced to the music, a pond, and all sorts of cool things. Also there were MANY Pokestops and Pokemon! We also went to the aquarium,

DONATE NOW!

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2




�16

ummmmmm well, there were fish, a white tiger (go figure), and a parrot? Zoo/aquarium? But I hear it was not particularly sizable as aquariums go. I have never been to one before, so I would not know. We also went to the Space Center, much cooler! I talked to an astronaut about dogs in space to see if I decided on a career change if that might be the job for me. First Pap on the moon, yeah. Maybe then, in a space craft, I would find Piper Papillon and the rainbow bridge! I stood in a space command center and said the famous words, “Houston, we have a problem,” I hear these words often around 4 Paws but have no idea what they actually mean. So after a wet, frustrating start, we had a phenomenal time in Houston. Until next time, Houston, this is space ship Pink, signing off. Parting lessons from Pippa: - If your hotel wants to send you to another, ASK how far away it is! - Just because it isn’t raining doesn’t mean the sky won’t open up and drown you. - Hilton rewards points do not make Karen happy. - When in Houston eat at Papasito’s and get a giant margarita and if at all possible do so with Paula Diamond as company! You will have a crazy good time.

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2





�17

4 Paws for Ability - Additional SupportersA Helping Hand from Nearby

"Some people make the world more special just by being in it." Quoted by Kelly Ann Rothaus

And, those people are from the Cornerstone Bible Church at 45 West Church St. in Xenia. They loaned us some tables and chairs for our November Volunteer Appreciation Day. We wouldn't have had enough seats and tables without your help! A special shout out to Y Comte, former staff member of 4 Paws, for helping to make this happen.

Thank you Cornerstone Bible Church!

DONATE NOW!

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

Binky Patrol for 4 Paws For over a year now, a generous group of Binky Patrol volunteers, led by Donna Serra, in the Maryland area, have been making and donating blankets to our kids receiving service dogs. Thank you so much, Donna and volunteers! To learn more about Binky Patrol's blanket donations to give children and teens comfort, go to www.binkypatrol.org

Thank you Binky Patrol!

Amvets Stops by 4 Paws A group from Amvets visited 4 Paws on Friday, Dec. 9 and brought a check for the 4 Paws Veterans Program . Below is the speech they presented:

'The Amvets Freedom Post #444 on Black Lane in Fairborn, the Sons of Amvets and Amvets Auxiliary held our second annual golf outing and fundraiser on September 24, 2016. 4 Paws for Ability and the Gary Sinise Foundation were the beneficiaries to support the American veterans. Thanks to more than 37 sponsors, friends, and local businesses who donated 126 door prizes and money, we are pleased to present to 4 Paws a check for $4,250 to help veterans receive service dogs. We applaud 4 Paws for Ability for their help with our service men and women.

Thank you Amvets Freedom Post #444!



http://www.binkypatrol.org

http://www.binkypatrol.org

� 18

October 2016 Class

Scarah & Madeline

With our service dog my child can... 4P

AWPR

INTS

Oct

/Nov

/Dec

201

6

…have a buddy to sleep with her in her big girl bed all night long....instead of Mommy or Daddy. Have a best friend!!!!! Have independence on stairs, as she helps Scarah up & down stairs ;) (using her leather balance support harness). Have something to talk to kids about that is fun & holds their attention long enough to give Maddie time to warm up to them. And soooo much more!

-Beth Goodwin Maddie & Scarah

Spyro & James

Rapunzel & Jude Emmett & Jacob

� 19

October 2016 Class

… h a v e a b e s t f r i e n d , b e independent, can have freedom, have someone to comfort her after seizures.

-Chastity Lee TenBrink Jo & Foxxy

Foxxy & Jo


AWPR

INTS

Oct

/Nov

/Dec

201

6

…never feel alone. -Erica Heath

Piper & Steffie

Steffie & PiperClara & Jayden

� 20

October 2016 Class

Sablo &

Caleb


AWPR

INTS

Oct

/Nov

/Dec

201

6

…enjoy a walk through the store, walking on his own (versus being carr ied) , happi ly and safe ly skipping tethered to his buddy.

-Sally Perea Silas & Manfred

Manfred & Silas

Tornado & Kai

Deuce & Patrick

� 21

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016 STARVOLUNTEER

The 4 Paws Family By Jaki Waggamon

70pups in traditional foster homes at any given time

with seasoned veterans, l ike the Christensens pictured with Stella and brand new helpers like the Brinkers, who are fostering Armani while they fundraise for a service dog of their own!

6,000More than

hours volunteered

Top Female & Male Onsite Volunteer Hours

Barbara Kimmel &

John Geise


320onsite volunteers, g i v i n g b a t h s , puppy play time, walking dogs and more!



� 22

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016 STARVOLUNTEER

The 4 Paws Family By Jaki Waggamon

170

165,000

puppies raised through the 4 Paws University program at 15 different colleges and universities

More than

h o u r s v o l u n t e e r e d through 4 Paws Mission Pawsible prison training program!


with recent university program grads like Tori continuing in the program as traditional fosters!



� 23

STARVOLUNTEERThe 4 Paws Family By Jaki Waggamon

120breeder moms and dads

in loving guardian homes

More than

including new homes like Fame and Sercy with the Westerkamm family, proud new dads like Hercules with the Welter family, and recently retired mommas like Kida with the Arneson Family!

THANK YOUDONATE NOW!

Donate to our Building Fund!

is not enough. The words seem so little, when 4 Paws means so much by saying them. It would be absolutely impossible to achieve the mission without the hours and days and late nights of assistance delivered by volunteers. Thank you.

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016



�24

November 2016 Class

...like we are leaving a place where everyone understands us.

-Amy Luparella Boyle Ryler & Lil’ Oaty

Leaving 4 Paws, after two weeks with my classmates, I feel…

McCoy & Megan

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

...complete. Bringing home our newest family member, McCoy and leaving behind life long friends and my 4 Paws Family. Thank goodness for Facebook and group texts! I miss everyone already!

-Alissa Maxwell Megan & McCoy

Lil’ Oaty & Ryler

Cabot & Abbey

�25

November 2016 Class Leaving 4 Paws, after two weeks with my classmates, I feel…

Dune & Briana

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

...like we've made forever friends - not just our new pup but our classmates who just get it. There was no judging just a group of people focused on helping their kiddo and trying to learn how to handle the newest family member. All of us worried together that we were somehow not getting it. Go 4 Paws! It's an experience like no other. And while hard and totally exhausting, I would not have changed a thing. Miss you already!

-Ann Marie Gregory & Prudence

...so much gratitude to 4 Paws that I cannot express!! Our class rocked!! As simple as that! !!!! I am glad and honored to be part of the Nov 2016 class family.

-Jeanny Castro Nakaya Briana & Dune

Poppin’ & Hannah

Prudence & Gregory

�26


Jest & Mandy

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

... I feel a bit lonely and heartbroken. Being surrounded by people who don't judge but, instead, offer their help and support, is priceless and hard to put into words. Some of my best friends are from 4 Paws, out of state, and we keep in touch OFTEN. Without those connections, our journeys would be incomplete. One of my new best friends, a young boy with epilepsy, has won a place in my heart forever.

-Amanda Ann Graham & Shadow

...our class was amazing. Such wonderful people, doing everything they can for their wonderful kids to be as successful as they can be in life. Parenting at its finest in this group.

-Martha Robbins Robert & Drogon

Klondike & Sylas

Drogon & Robert

Shadow (Shasta) & Graham

�27


Fresca & Sophia

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

...sad and happy. My classmates never judged and totally understood the daily struggles even if they had ones that looked very different. My classmates became family. They cheered me on and celebrated our accomplishments. They helped jump hurdles.

Life became easier. Our journey was a great one together as a class and family.

-Alison Baquero-Cruz Jaime & Bob

…like we live too far from each other, I will so miss seeing each of the families. Having people who understand your journey is priceless.

-Susan Fuchs Sophia & Fresca

Diego & Kiara

Bob (Edmund) & Jaime

� 28

4 Paws for Ability - Additional SupportersA Gift of A Gift

Thirteen-year-old Calista Mitchell was gifted a challenge of sorts by her g r a n d p a r e n t s . T o f i n d a n organization to donate a monetary gift to. After doing research on our website and on Charity Navigator, Calista selected 4 Paws as one of her charity recipients. She said, “I want to help those who aren’t as lucky as me. I want to support families who need more money to [get] a trained dog , who wi l l present a t rue companion for life.”

Calista, thank you for your informed research and giving this holiday season! We hope you grow with the same passion for giving as your grandparents must have. Since you live so close, we’d love to have you visit any time! Feel free to call and schedule a visit!

Thank you Calista!


4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

Ohio Department of Transportation Gives for the Holidays

Each year the Ohio Department of Transportation District 1 celebrates the holidays by supporting local charitable organizations. Throughout the season they participate in various fundraising events include decoration contests, culminating in a holiday luncheon, where a portion of the ticket is donated to charity as well.

This year, Jeff Waggamon, dad of longtime volunteer Nick Waggamon, nominated 4 Paws for Ability and they were selected. Nick and Thunderbolt, along with Jessi Brinkman and Matilda attended the luncheon, presented information about 4 Paws and accepted a generous donation of more than $800.

Thank you so much to Jeff for nominating 4 Paws, and to all the staff who put in time, effort, and dollars to make this year’s fundraising event a huge success!

Thank you ODOT District 1!



� 29

4 Paws Puppy Program A bountiful fall…


4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

Airbender LitterKinara x BartGolden Labs11/13/2016

Mortal Instruments LitterSiri x Hal

Golden Labs11/18/2016

Dragon Riders LitterMona x Hal


Voyager LitterBippa x BodhiGolden Labs12/12/2016

Samurai LitterBling x Magic

Papillons11/2/2016



� 30



4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

Mascots LitterRiver Tam x Bodhi


Transformer LitterL'Jo x Bart

Labrador Retrievers12/14/2016

Cubs LitterIndigo x BodhiGolden Labs12/13/2016

Big Money Fragrance Litter

Sesi x AblePapillons12/8/2016



� 31



4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

Colors LitterAiyana x BartGolden Labs10/29/2016

Graceling LitterIridessa x Nome


Reindeer LitterKit Kat x NomeGolden Labs12/22/2016

Wine LittersDiva x Luka

Whisper x LukaPapillons

11/20/2016



� 32



4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

Guardian LitterDeRosa x HalGolden Labs

12/6/2016

Winter Holiday LitterNoel x NomeGolden Labs12/27/2016

Paw Patrol LitterKendy x Eggster


Detective LitterBeta x Doodlebug

Goldendoodles11/29/2016



� 33



4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

Card Game LitterNadya x NomeGolden Labs

10/1/2016

Hebrew LitterZappa x BodhiGolden Labs

10/5/2016

Tree LitterJorie x CaeporGolden Labs11/13/2016

Christmas LitterFlora x Hercules


Flight LitterTris x Magic

Papillons10/19/2016



� 34

4 Paws Puppy Program 2016 Puppy Count

PapillonBoys Girls

Golden

Lab

Poodle

Goldendoodle

German

Retriever

Golden

Retriever

Labrador

Retriever

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016


228 Boys! 221 Girls!



� 35

4 Paws Puppy Program 2016 Puppy Count


4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016



�36 DONATE NOW!Donate to our Building Fund!

Pharmacy Saver 4P

AWPR

INTS

Oct

/Nov

/Dec

201

6



�37

December 2016 Class New year, new service dog! This year we…

Munch & Xander

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

…are reaching new and exciting milestones with the help of Munch and Xander's Village!

-Shannon Hiatt Xander & Munch

…look forward to being able to have brand new experiences that Dom could never do before Demo!

-Aimee Cleffi Dominic & Demo

Betty & Austin

Demo & Dom

�38

December 2016 Class New year, new service dog! This year we…

Bay & Kaitlyn

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

…will have peace knowing Bay will alert me to Kaitlyn's seizures, day or night.

-Tammy Hogan Kaitlyn & Bay

Rubix & Jewell

Jedidiah & Jason and Jillian

Crawdad & Theolyn

�39

Dear 4 Paws,

About two years ago I was given the opportunity to adopt one of your “Awesome Flunkies” named Sosuki (now Zuki), a black golden lab. I was told he would be a good companion. He is and in addition is a thief who has stolen my heart and has proven to be a well-mannered, certified therapy dog who visits nursing homes and the hospital. He brings smiles and stories from the patients and their families, enlivens the staff (who are often on the floor with him), and gives pride and purpose to me.

One of my granddaughters, Lizzy Geary, has fostered two of your dogs and it is understood though they have to leave for work, the bond is not dissolved. For this reason I would like to thank the staff, trainers and foster family of Zuki and make them aware his training and nurturing are being used and appreciated by many. He is loved, properly nourished, groomed, exercised with other dogs and not spoiled too much. Sleeping on a Sleep Number Bed is not being spoiled if you can’t choose the firmness.

Zuki has a page on Facebook, too: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010759206432

Fabulous Flunkies are FABULOUS4P

AWPR

INTS

Oct

/Nov

/Dec

201

6

Ronald McDonald House Supports 4 PawsIn January 2016, 4 Paws received an email from Cara Arnold, House Program Director from the Ronald McDonald House Charities in Dayton, OH. The email was prompted by a 4 Paws client from Florida who had called RMHC to see if it would be possible if her family could stay there while they were in class at 4 Paws. Cara and staff quickly determined that because a service dog is a durable medical good, that this would fall into the criteria of being able to stay at the Ronald McDonald House, which is open to families whose children are undergoing medical treatments/surgeries at the local Dayton area hospitals.

After a tour of the House, a partnership was quickly cemented, and 4 Paws added the Ronald McDonald House as a potential hotel option that our clients could contact, and several families have already stayed there and are booking into 2017 and 2018.

In November Cara sent this email, "I wanted to reach out to you and share what an absolute pleasure it has been working with 4 Paws for Ability families and how absolutely well behaved and delightful their service dogs have been!"

Cara and Marketing and Communications Coordinator, Brittany Miller, paid 4 Paws a visit on November 28 to see our facility and watch some of our kids meet their service dogs for the first time. They shared that they keep two spots open each month to accommodate 4 Paws families.

We are so thankful for your partnership, Ronald McDonald House!

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010759206432

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010759206432

�40

4 Paws for Ability - Check this Out!Make A Wish Nebraska Says Thank You

4 Paws for Ability received a nice note from a wish granter from Make A Wish Nebraska. Ms. Lorenzen was writing about the recent placement of Bob with 4 Paws kiddo, Jaime. She described speaking with the Baquero-Cruz family, and learning about the heavy impact Jaime’s seizure disorder has on both himself and his family.

We’re so happy to be a part of the Baquero-Cruz journey, and happy to hear that mom is reporting to everyone, including Ms. Lorenzen that Jaime and Bob’s first meeting was “pure magic.”

Thank you for Making a Wish come true, MAW Nebraska!

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

25 Days of 4 Pawed Christmas a Success!

During the second annual 25 Days of 4 Pawed Christmas online donation drive, 4 Paws was again able to fill its conference room with supples sent in by a variety of supporters! There is a certain joy about being able to shop for a gift during the holidays, as noted by Danielle and Holly on the note they included with their donation. Another special note reached us from Maggie, who said, “Enjoy your gift! We are so excited for Loki to start school in January! Thanks for all you did for his boy and his family!” It was a joy to watch the generosity of 4 Paws supporters fill the room, and our puppies are very, very grateful!

Thank you to all our holiday donors!Pink for Piper

Tumbler There's still time to celebrate Pink for Piper! Rule l i k e P i p e r t u m b l e r s a r e a v a i l a b l e o n B o o s t e r u n t i l February 9! Just $16 each a a good reminder to rule, dream, and love big…like Piper did! Get yours now, before they’re gone! https://www.booster.com/rule-like-piper

https://www.booster.com/rule-like-piper

https://www.booster.com/rule-like-piper

�41

4 Paws for Ability - Want to Help?

Naming Opportunities Available!

The new facility is open and fully operational, but a few naming opportunities still exist! We have just 1 whelping room left that needs a sponsor! These rooms are specially designed for our mommas and their brand new puppies. They have independent temperature control, their own ventilation system, a wash station, and plenty of room for a whelping box! Sponsorship of a whelping room is $10,000. If you’d like to know more about this or other sponsorship opportunities, please c o n t a c t K e l l y a t [email protected]

How Can I Help?Our online wish list is always available! You can find things for our puppies, for our staff, and for our families here all the time! We welcome any and all assistance!

http://4pawsforability.org/wish-list/


4 Paws Perpetual Plaque Want to create a permanent and lasting tribute to someone special? You can do so by sponsoring a plate on the Perpetual Plaque hanging in the 4 Paws lobby for a $2,500 donation. - Your child and his/her service dog - Your favorite foster dog(s) and your name - Your 4 Paws adoptee and your name - Your pet dog and your name - Your children, family, mom, dad, or other family members - Classes can pull money together too! If you are interested, send an email to Kelly Camm at [email protected] and let her know what you'd like it to say.

Photography Credits:Thank you to the 4 Paws volunteers, staff, and friends whose photos are in this issue of 4PawPrints!

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016







�42

4 Paws for Ability - Check This Out!Connie Mae Designs Creates Mutt

Mats out of Crib Bumper Pads

Connie Smith, long-time breeding home known as Labbies on the Hill, has contributed much time and energy at 4 Paws over the years. Her business, Connie Mae Designs, is also heavily involved with 4 Paws. Her handmade in Ohio products can be found on Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/shop/ConnieMaeDesigns/items where she is donating 10% of her sales to 4 Paws this year.

Using her talent and love for 4 Paws, Connie also created several mutt mats by recycling crib bumper pads that 4 Paws has been collecting for the last six months as part of its "Save a Baby, Help a Dog" promotion created with Greene County Public Health. These recycled mutt mats have been selling quite well in the bricks and mortar 4 Paws store.

Thanks so much, Connie, for your time and generosity!

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

Attention Thrivent Members

With Thr ivent Cho ice®, you can recommend where some of Thrivent Financial's charitable outreach funds go. 4 Paws for Ability is now one of those charities! You can donate below by going to: https://www.thrivent.com/making-adifference/living-generously/thrivent-choice/

Below is a video you may enjoy about what Thrivent members do for nonprofits! http://www.kaltura.com/tiny/l0g14

If you would like to know more about becoming a Thrivent member, please contact:

Terry J. Powers ChFC® , CLTC®, CLU®, FIC Financial Consultant Thrivent Financial® 3775 Harvest Creek Ct, Dayton, OH 45430-1494 Office: 937-660-9444 Fax: 248-786-6833 Cell: 937-369-4768 Email: [email protected] Web: https://connect.thrivent.com/terry-powers/

$360 was donated to 4 Paws in 2016! Thrivent dollars expire March 31, 2017!

Thank you Thrivent for your support!

https://www.etsy.com/shop/ConnieMaeDesigns/items



https://www.thrivent.com/making-adifference/living-generously/thrivent-choice/



http://www.kaltura.com/tiny/l0g14

https://connect.thrivent.com/terry-powers/









http://www.kaltura.com/tiny/l0g14




�43

4PAWPRINTS 4 Paws For Ability

253 Dayton Ave. Xenia, OH 45385

DO YOU HAVE A STORY OR PHOTOS TO SHARE WITH 4PAWPRINTS? SEND THEM TO JAKI AT [email protected]

Did you know that you

can sponsor a placement

class?

Find out more here:

bit.ly/4PawsBuilding

Thanks to all our supporters! (Over $5,000, October-December 2016) Round of Appaws!• Josh & Melodie Gardner - $5,000 • Sue Ann Denier - $5,000 • Alica Wang - $11,200.00 • Kathleen Niebanck - $5,000 • Sandra Hickman - $17,000 • ANONYMOUS - $15,400 • Federal Grant - $27,500 • Jeannie Johnson - $6,095.63 • Cyrus Spurlino - $10,000 • Frank Messina Rev Trust - $8,000 • FSC Securities Corp - $26,991.64 • Suzanne Levin - $8,500 • Morning Sun - $15,000 • Trinity Area School District - $8,500 • Sara Lichfield - $5,000

c/o Esse Quam Videri Foundation • The Krantz Family Trust - $40,000 • The Alice Lawrence Foundation Inc - $18,000

c/o Marcum LLP • YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas - $10,685 • Deborah Cassinelli - $5,000 • Jake & Jeanne Sweeney Foundation - $12,000 • The Ethan Foundation for Autism - $9,600 • Robert Beard Charitable Foundation - $30,000 • Tucson Firefighters Association - $5,000 • Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon - $17,000

4PAW

PRIN

TS O

ct/N

ov/D

ec 2

016

• Chive Charities - $15,000 • ANONYMOUS - $10,000 • MetLife - $10,000 • Eileen Castle - $7,526 • Chardith Foundation - $50,000 • Edward Jones - $14,000 • Sherie Bedrossian - $6,016.12 • James Streit - $5,667 • James Thomas TTEE - $5,000 • Calipari Foundation Inc - $75,000 • Denise Easthon, LLC - $5,000 • Emma Gallagher Trust - $7,500 • Mr & Mrs Millard Choak - $20,000 • Sam's properties LLC - $8,000 • Currier - $6,000 • PetSmart - $10,000



4pawprints oct - dec 2016 - 4 paws for...

Documents