News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, NE; KLKNTV.comLincoln woman starts Sadie Dog Fund

Lincoln woman starts Sadie Dog Fund

By: Kelly Sommariva
ksommariva@klkntv.com

The fund began with the inspiration from a cocker spaniel named Sadie, but to keep pets and their parents healthy and happy for as long as they can, they need your help.

"She just brought so much to my life and I am very happy to be able to honor her legacy with the Sadie Dog Fund," said Pam Hoffman, founder of the fund.

Sadie was the runt of her litter, a Cocker Spaniel with freckles on her nose, and Pam Hoffman's soul mate. But Sadie suffered from severe allergies and had so much back pain, she needed a chiropractor and acupuncture.

Pam knows she was lucky to be able to take care of all Sadie's medical needs. "I know for a lot of these pet guardians, they would do anything for their pet. Just some of them can't afford to do it," said Hoffman.

After Sadie died, Pam wanted her memory to live on. She wrote a book, and began raising money for the 'Sadie Dog Fund.' "We're small, but I think what we do is really powerful and beneficial to the community," said Hoffman.

The charity helps families who can't afford life-saving medical treatments for their dogs. Since 2007, they've helped more than a dozen dogs across Nebraska. The number of requests keeps rising. They already have three this month and Pam hopes to help many more. "Everything is expensive, but pets are like family. It is so rewarding for me to help dog's through Sadie's legacy," said Hoffman.

Pet owners have to complete and application for funding. Many get referred by their vets. The organization tries to help as many dogs as possible, so they're having a fundraiser in March to help keep the organization going strong.