Maggie & Me

Maggie and Me

My name is Mark Shore and I’m a nearly retired teacher. That is to say, I have about 2 and a half years left before I retire. About two years ago I got myself a dog! What a difference she has made in my life. At the time I had been alone for just over ten years after having lost my wife to cervical cancer. We had/have three great kids when we were very young. She was only forty-six when she died much too early. I also lost my dad to small-cell lung cancer, he was only 56. One of my best friends lost his battle with cancer just 2 years ago, he was 57. Now I’ve finally found a way to give back to their memory which brings me to the reason for this blog and GoFundMe campaign.

For a long while I enjoyed my pet-free life, but then a friend tried to get me to get this dog and eventually I caved and I’m so glad I did! She is an Old English Sheepdog (OES) and probably the best breed there is! Maggie is always there for me, always happy to see me, and follows me everywhere I go…if I let her:)

My purpose or goal is for Maggie to become a Therapy Dog. The plan is to take her to visit children’s hospitals, cancer treatment centers, and nursing homes to spread joy and happiness! If you have owned or own an OES you know how they are always the star of the show everywhere you go! Everyone who sees Maggie immediately comments about her, “Beautiful,” “Look at those eyes!” “She’s so beautiful!” They use to be a very common household dog, but now they are a breed in decline. They are amazing animals, and we can bring attention to such a great breed!

I’ve contacted a program that is called “Pet Pals.” Pet Pals organizes volunteers to bring therapy dogs to visit patients at Children’s Hospital in KC. Maggie would be GREAT at this job!!!

What I’ve learned so far is that there are a variety of different types of certificates for Therapy Dog, Emotional Support Animal, and the top rank is Service Animals. I’ll spare the details for now of what each means, but what is important to all of the different certified areas is that the dog, “must be well mannered and listen to his/her handler.” While Maggie is great, she’s not the best listener if you know what I mean. To reach our goal and to be the best therapy team we can be, I need Maggie to get legit, professional training. However, it is very expensive! This is where you come in. I’m starting this GoFundMe Page to raise the money to get that training. All money raised will go to the expenses of getting Maggie trained and certified, so we can begin visiting and spreading happiness to those who need something to smile about.

There are many different groups and trainers out there at various costs. I’ve been quoted anywhere from $1500 to $2600 and higher! One program I’ve contacted is called “All Pets Unleashed.” It appears to be a top-notch and reputable program. I’m looking to raise up to $2000 or more to get Maggie trained and certified. On a teacher’s salary, I can’t afford the entire cost, but I do plan on paying as much as possible but could use your help. This will give Maggie and me a goal and a purpose which is to spread as much happiness and joy to people who need it most!

I’m sure many of you who read this far probably know what I’m talking about. Most, if not all people have probably had their families affected by cancer. Maggie and I intend to do what we can to make that fight a little more bearable if only for a few moments at a time.

Thanks for reading and thanks for whatever support you can give to Maggie and me.

Links:

All Dogs Unleashed