It’s that special time of year again! My annual fundraiser to raise money for The Frankie Wheelchair Fund which grant wheelchairs to paralyzed dogs in need.
My dachshund, Frankie, who was in a wheelchair for six years, profoundly changed my life for the better over ten years ago. It’s why I founded National Walk ‘N Roll Dog Day & The Frankie Wheelchair Fund to not only pay tribute to her, but to honor ALL dogs in wheelchairs around the world.
I’m so excited about this years design which was created by artist, Brianna Brunsell of Silly Dog Magnets. She was so very kind in donating her time and talent. Mary Shafer won the contest I recently ran coming up with this years slogan “Enjoying a Wheelie Good Life!”
When Frankie was first paralyzed I sometimes heard from others that they felt a dog couldn’t live a quality life in a wheelchair. But I was witness to a little dog with a huge spirit and who didn’t seem to mind having wheels as back legs and went on with life like it was no big deal. She truly inspired me…and so many others.
While dachshunds are most commonly afflicted with a disc disease that can leave them paralyzed, there are other breeds also affected. Whether it’s Degenerative Mylopathy, severe arthritis, missing limbs, or old age, a wheelchair can certainly give a pet the gift of mobility and help them live a longer, quality of life.
I saw a need for funding for paralyzed dogs in rescues, and for families in financial stress and it’s why I started this fund to try and help.
To date, the Frankie Fund has helped 44 paralyzed dogs get a wheelchair who may never have been able to have one.
National Walk ‘N Roll Dog Day was founded in 2012 as a way in which to bring positive awareness that dogs can indeed live a quality life even if in a wheelchair. It is celebrated every September 22.
Every time I have the opportunity to see a dog regain their mobility through learning how to use a wheelchair, it is a beautiful moment. I never tire of it and I’m so grateful we have this option for our dear animal friends.
My goal is to sell 100 t-shirts and/or sweatshirts this year which would enable me to help 4-5 small dogs. But of course, I’d love to exceed this goal as it will only mean more dogs that will benefit.
Thank you for your consideration of supporting this cause that is near and dear to my heart. You can purchase a t-shirt or sweatshirt by visiting the campaign here.
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