Rover Oaks Pet Resort is preparing to launch a month-long donation drive, Operation: War Dogs, to support the United States War Dogs Association (USWDA). The drive officially begins on Memorial Day and ends on Independence Day, July 4, 2012. Last year, Rover Oaks raised more than $6,500 for USWDA through Operation: War Dogs.
The USWDA is an organization of former and current military dog handlers and other individuals committed to promoting the long history of military service dogs, establishing permanent War Dog Memorials, and educating the public about the invaluable service of these canines to our country.
During Operation: War Dogs, Rover Oaks will match 10% of all money raised, to a total of $50,000 in donations. Donations of $25 will receive a commemorative dog tag necklace and donations of $100 will receive a free night of lodging at Rover Oaks. In addition, Rover Oaks will decorate their facilities with patriotic paw prints presenting the names of the clients and community members who contribute to USWDA. Every dollar counts and anyone interested in donating is encouraged to stop by either Rover Oaks location to make a contribution in their name or in honor of a soldier they wish to recognize. These donations will help provide an abundance of critically needed items including K9 medications, food, grooming tools, bedding and other necessities.
"Last year's donation drive was such a huge success, we could not wait to plan it again for this year.” Said Joy Ricke, Assistant General Manager at Rover Oaks Katy. “The response we received from the Houston and Katy communities was overwhelming and I am confident that we will see a similar, if not bigger, response this year. Our soldiers, both two and four-legged, risk their lives every day to ensure our freedom; and we are so lucky just to have the opportunity to honor them in some way."
Military Working Dogs have been used by the U.S. Military since World War I. Dogs, along with their volunteer handlers, are trained in teams as scouts, trackers, sentry, mine/booby-trap/tunnel and water detection of hostile forces. Dogs have been used in WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Persian Gulf, Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan and Iraq. Today, all branches of our armed forces are utilizing Military Patrol Dogs specializing in drug and bomb/explosive detection. Currently, there are approximately 600-700 of these canines in the Middle East in such places as Kuwait, Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia and Iraq, patrolling bases, military compounds, ammunition depots and military check points. They are guarding and protecting our military personnel with courage, loyalty and honor.
Donations will be accepted at either Rover Oaks location. Rover Oaks Katy, 281-693-7687, is located at 24250 Kingsland Blvd., Katy 77494. Rover Oaks Houston, 713-662-2119, is located at 2550 West Bellfort, Houston 77054. To learn more about Rover Oaks or for directions, visit www.roveroaks.com. To learn more about the USDWA and how they are assisting our country, visit www.uswardogs.org.
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About Rover Oaks Pet Resort:
Recipient of the 2012 and 2011Award for Excellence from the Better Business Bureau, Rover Oaks Pet Resort is the premier destination in Southeast Texas for overnight lodging, doggie daycare, grooming and training. Rover Oaks has two locations with large campuses of 2.5 and 3.5 acres conveniently located two blocks south of Reliant Stadium in Houston and a short walk from Katy Mills Mall in Katy. Rover Oaks Pet Resort first opened its doors in 2001 and was built around a philosophy of fun, socialization, and physical activity. The pet care professionals at Rover Oaks know that pets who enjoy daily playtime and physical activity are more adjusted, less stressed, and healthier. Per their slogan, that’s why Rover Oaks is “where every pet loves to go!”
