Once the weather shaped up the animal life appeared in abundance. Our apartment parking lot had a gaggle wild turkeys running around in it and there have been spottings of everything from owls to hedgehogs. Animals are so enriching to our lives. Almost everyone on the Improve Group staff has a pet and we all appreciate the comfort they bring. Some animals do far more than that. My neighbor trains guide dogs and it is amazing to see what these canines can accomplish. My grant today is a nod to our furry friends.

This week’s pick: Planet Dog Foundation promotes and financially supports 501©3 non-profit and their programs such as those addressing:

• service dogs
• therapy dogs
• animal assisted therapy
• search and rescue dogs
• police, fire, military dogs
• other innovative canine service programs

Grants range between $5,000 and $10,000. Letters of Intent must be received via mail or email by August 1, 2008 for the fall funding cycle.