Our Story.
Pierre, like many family dogs, was so loved.
His days consisted of belly rubs, string cheese snacks, and walks to find his stick of the day. But his favorite moment of each day was next to a window where he would patiently await a stream of sun, plop down, and bask in the it with a smile. Even on the cloudiest of Portland days, he would find the few moments to enjoy the sunny spot.
The day I got Pierre, my life changed. P became part of our family and was a flooding ray of light in the middle of a thunderstorm of my mom’s severe health battle. Laughter filled our home at a time when tears were frequent. He continued to bring comfort for 10 years, even in moments when happiness felt like it might never be in our home again.
We experienced so much together. We were two peas in a pod who needed each other every day. A true companionship. I have never loved anything more.
Such a special kind of love, in turn, can make a sudden loss so much harder.
In April 2023, Pierre suddenly and unexpectedly passed away from an unknown, medically traumatic health emergency – one I could have never seen coming, and one that continues to haunt me. My journey from experiencing this loss has resulted in a lot of reflection of the life lessons Pierre taught me.
Savor the joy in the day, like finding the perfect stick. Love whole-heartedly. Soak in the quiet moments. Patience. Empathy. Search for the sunny spots in life, and then, take the time to bask in them.
My Goal
In Pierre’s memory, I founded P’s Pals: Pet Pantry with one goal in mind—to help other dogs experience the same love, care, and full life that Pierre had.
Because of the incredible generosity of friends and family, we raised $10,000 in 2025 —enough to help feed the dogs at Oregon Dog Rescue, a 501(c)(3) non-profit and no-kill shelter that found loving homes for 2,075 dogs in 2025 alone.
But today, the need is even greater. Across the country, overcrowding is pushing shelters past their limits. More than 750,000 animals are currently at risk of death, not because they aren’t worthy of love, but because there simply isn’t enough space, food, or resources.
Oregon Dog Rescue steps in to save dogs from euthanasia lists in other states, giving them a second chance at life.
But that second chance depends on something very basic: food.
I volunteer weekly in the puppy room, and I see this need firsthand. Food isn’t just nourishment; it’s what keeps these dogs healthy, adoptable, and alive long enough to find their forever homes.
This April, I’m setting a goal to raise another $10,000 to ensure every dog at the rescue is fed, cared for, and given the best possible chance at adoption.
All in memory of Pierre.
Thank you so, so much.
With love (and belly rubs),
Katie Spellman
Learn more about Oregon Dog Rescue by visiting their website.
To make a cash donation or make a purchase through my Amazon wish list, click here.