As we look ahead, 4-Legged Kids, Inc. is excited to announce our giving focus for 2025. In the past, we have chosen to donate a meal to a needy pet for every service we perform. We wholeheartedly stand by St. Louis’ extraordinary animal rescue and welfare community. Yet, 2025’s recipient organization represents a slight shift to an organization that serves both pets and people. Today, I’m announcing 4-Legged Kids, Inc.’s giving focus for 2025: Dogs for Our Brave. This organization is near and dear to my heart. Following is what makes them the perfect choice for our giving program.
About Dogs for Our Brave
In 2025, we have chosen to partner with St. Louis-based Dogs for Our Brave (DFOB). DFOB is dedicated to providing professionally trained service dogs to wounded veterans at no cost. As stated above, this decision marks a departure from our traditional focus on animal shelters, reflecting a deeper acknowledgment of the profound impact dogs can have on human lives and vice versa. Our choice to support DFOB is particularly poignant due to both of my daughters’ military deployments, bringing the needs of our brave service members closer to home than ever before.
Aligning with Dogs of Our Brave
Making a Difference
Dogs for Our Brave’s mission aligns with our desire to make a meaningful difference. They provide professionally trained service dogs to veterans who have honorably served our country and suffered debilitating injuries. These incredible animals offer more than just companionship; they provide essential support, helping veterans regain their independence and improve their quality of life.
What sets DFOB apart is their commitment to providing these services at absolutely no cost to the veterans. This includes not just the initial pairing but also ongoing support such as dog food, veterinary care, and pharmaceuticals for the life of the dog. This holistic approach ensures that veterans can focus on their recovery and reintegration without the added stress of financial burden. Providing this level of service dog training and longterm care is extraordinarily costly, which is why Dogs For Our Brave is an ideal recipient of 4-LK’s support.
Shared Values & Mission
DFOB’s approach is comprehensive and compassionate. They rescue dogs from local shelters, giving them a new purpose while simultaneously serving our veterans. Each dog undergoes approximately 18 months of professional training, ensuring they are fully equipped to meet the unique needs of their veteran partners. This program not only transforms the lives of veterans but also saves dogs that might otherwise face uncertain futures.
By supporting DFOB, we at 4-Legged Kids, Inc. are contributing to a mission that addresses multiple aspects of care and compassion. We’re supporting animal welfare by giving shelter dogs a second chance at life. We’re honoring our veterans by providing them with loyal companions trained to assist with their specific needs. And, we’re fostering healing and hope for those who have sacrificed so much for our country.
Supporting Our Veterans
This partnership allows us to expand our impact beyond the walls of animal shelters and into the homes and hearts of our nation’s heroes. It’s a testament to the incredible bond between humans and animals, and how this bond can be harnessed to create profound positive change. Per DFOB, “Most of our veterans in need of help are not looking for a handout, but rather a hand up; and these warriors and heroes deserve the opportunity to become the best version of themselves, but hesitate to ask for help.” The dogs are a game changer for these individuals. Often, they are a life saver.
We look forward to sharing our impact and updates on our partnership with DFOB throughout the coming year and beyond. Through this collaboration, we hope to bring renewed independence, companionship, and joy to the lives of those who have given so much in service to our nation.
We hope you are as excited about 4-Legged Kids, Inc.’s Giving Focus for 2025: Dogs for Our Brave. We invite our clients, friends, and supporters to join us in this meaningful endeavor. Together, we can help create more success stories like this one. We can ensure service dogs can continue to enrich and improve the lives of veterans.
At 4-Legged Kids, Inc., our award-winning dog walking and pet sitting services are tailored to meet your and your pets’ needs. Call 636-405-0400 or email ask@4leggedkids.com to register. Existing clients, please request services here.
We look forward to welcoming your pets into the 4-Legged Kids Inc. family and, together, supporting a fantastic cause right here in St. Louis!
Janie founded 4-Legged Kids, Inc in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1997 and provides education through her PetBizHIVE podcast and her PetBizMBA membership and courses. She is a Certified Professional Animal Care Operator, Fear Free certified and a Certified Professional Pet Sitter. Learn more about the Founder, Janie Budnick.
