He was originally found living amongst garbage in the Pinion Hills Desert in California. Some were feral dogs, while others like Lucas had been abandoned. His history before that is unknown and the thought of it makes me cringe. Lucas and the other Pinion Hills Dogs were then rescued, adopted out or sent to non-kill shelters by Jan Reedy. Some of the dogs were healthy, active dogs, while others like Lucas were completely shut down and needed dramatic rehab. When we first adopted Lucas from a shelter in Eureka, Montana, Canine-PTSD was not commonly understood by dog trainers or vets. It was difficult to navigate his special needs. We had no idea the challenges and the rewards that would be ahead of us. In his honour, we have set up the Lucas Legacy Fund to help dogs like Lucas and their families. Dogs who have been through severe trauma need to be trained in ways that will allow their personalities to truly shine. Lucas was a shell of a dog too terrified to eat, drink, make noise or move. By the end of his 8 years with us, he was quirky, fun, loving and enjoying life. He was the most well loved dog I have ever known. I am so glad we did not give up on him and he did not give up on us. If you need help with a dog who suffers from trauma and anxiety, please reach out to the Lucas Legacy Fund. ABOUT THE FUND
As the founder of the Lucas Legacy Fund, I am not a vet or certified trainer, but through my experiences with Lucas, I have a lot of compiled information and contacts that can help others who have dogs with anxiety and trauma. Our organization is 100% donation based and run completely by volunteers. For families who cannot afford training, we can cover costs with our approved trainers who specialize in working with dogs with anxiety. When medication is necessary, we can help families that cannot afford anxiety meds and calming supplements for their dogs. We will work with your vet to make sure the meds are a good fit. We can also help with costs with trained dog walkers who can walk reactive dogs in a safe environment when families are unable to do so. Our funds are limited, as they are all donations. The amount that can be spent on each dog is decided on a case by case basis. We are here to also provide emotional support to families, as it can be extremely difficult to have a dog that behaves differently from other dogs. Our biggest fundraiser is through recycling of bottles, cans and milk containers. Your recyclables can be dropped off at 65 Boundary Street in downtown Kimberley. All money will go directly to helping dogs. Donations can also be made by e-transfer to [email protected]
Thank you for your support.
— Caprice Hogg; Founder of the Lucas Legacy Fund
