September 11th

Every year on September 11th, I find myself watching the documentaries and footage of that horrible day in 2001. It is important for me to never forget all of those innocent victims whose lives were tragically taken. I will probably watch it all again today, but I also want to do something positive this year.

The first thing that came to mind was a not-for-profit located in Michigan that supports canine units by providing specialized equipment. I found the K9 Defender Fund a few years ago while researching organizations that Lakeshore Pet Boutique could support. The K9 Defender Fund depends on fundraising and private donations in order to provide equipment to Military Working Dogs, local fire and law enforcement and search and rescue teams. Did you know that over 300 dogs and handlers searched for survivors after the attacks on September 11th?

This organization offers two kits that you can sponsor for working dogs. The Buddy Bag is a comprehensive medical supply kit. It not only contains all of the essentials for first aid, but includes an oxygen mask that fits all dogs. You can find the list of what is contained in the kit on the K9 Defender Fund website. Did you know that when you purchase a Michigan Mitten toy from Lakeshore Pet Boutique, we donate $2 from every sale to the K9 Defender Fund? We are hoping that early next year we will have raised the funds to purchase our first Buddy Bag.

Naloxone Kits are another way to support working dogs. These kits include a prefilled syringe of Naloxone (Narcan) and a nasal atomizer. Naloxone is used to reverse overdose from opioids. The nasal atomizer is important because when administering medication through the nose, it is quickly absorbed through the mucous membranes and directly into the blood. In honor of those September 11Hero Dogs, Lakeshore Pet Boutique is sponsoring a Naloxone Kit.

If you would like more information about the K9 Defender Fund, please visit their website: www.k9defenderfund.org

You can also order a Michigan Mitten on our website.