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
Since losing Pierre, I have thought - what is something I can do to embody these lessons and provide the same quality of life Pierre had for other local dogs in need?
That is when I founded P’s Pals Pet Pantry.
In 2024, with your help, I raised $5,000 to pay for food for the Pacific Northwest Bulldog Rescue. This covered the cost of dog food for a full year.
This year, I will be supporting Oregon Dog Rescue and the 150 dogs that come into their care every month.
Oregon Dog Rescue is a no-kill shelter serving the greater Portland area. Their mission is to parter with communities around the country overwhelmed by homeless dogs to lower unnecessary euthanasia rates and find the best homes possible for loving animals. Every week, I volunteer at the rescue in the puppy room and as a dog walker to support this mission.
During the month of April, my goal through P’s Pals is to raise $5,000 in food and supplies to support Oregon Dog Rescue in feeding and caring for local dogs at the rescue.
There is no question that Pierre lived a wonderful life, and in his memory I want to provide that experience for more local dogs and their humans alike.
I am asking for your help in donating to my annual fundraiser, P’s Pals. Helping local dogs find their sunny spot, in memory of Mr. P.
Thank you so, so much.
With love (and belly rubs),
Katie Spellman
Learn more about Oregon Dog Rescue by visiting their website.