Lew Dog Gives: A Heartfelt Mission Rooted in Love

By Holly Mazur

I thought readers of the Daily Post might be curious about a story that transcends the local scene, reaching hearts around the world. Recently, I had the joy of launching Lew Dog Gives, a 100% volunteer-run nonprofit right here in the heart of Pagosa Springs, with a unique and impactful mission: to give back to our furry friends through a veterinarian-reviewed dog cookbook that families can enjoy together.

A Cookbook with a Cause

At the core of our initiative is Healthy Cooking for Your Dog: Wholesome Recipes for a Long, Happy Life. This isn’t just any cookbook; every purchase powers a mission that sends 100% of net proceeds to shelters, sanctuaries, and caregivers dedicated to providing food, medical care, and love to animals in need. In a world where pet ownership is often viewed as a luxury, we are committed to creating a solution for those who cannot afford the essentials for their pets.

Inspiration from Lewie

The organization is named in honor of my Goldendoodle, Lewie. His unparalleled love and companionship ignited my passion for animal advocacy and inspired me to create a nonprofit that starts locally, while also reaching out with compassion on a global scale. Over the years, my love for animals has evolved; I can still recall how, as a child, I was enamored with every creature that fluttered or scampered—a fascination that only deepened when I met my soulmate, Lewie.

Lewie taught me what it means to experience unconditional love. This love has shaped my understanding of life and the responsibility we carry as guardians of our pets. It led me to realize that I was given a tremendous gift, one that can also be shared with others.

The Importance of Nutrition for Our Pets

This book is dedicated to humans who cherish their dogs and all animals, offering insights designed to elevate your pet’s health. It serves as a reminder that good nutrition significantly contributes to a longer, happier life. What’s fascinating is that the recipe for longevity is strikingly similar for both humans and dogs: nutritious food, regular exercise, and a little time spent sniffing flowers greatly enhance our well-being.

Creating a low-stress environment, being surrounded by loved ones, and most importantly, showering our pets with love all culminate in an enriched quality of life. As I reflect on my life with Lewie, I often think about the many moments we’ve spent together in the kitchen; he was always eager to taste my creations—except for peas, which he firmly rejected.

A Legacy of Love and Respect

While I wish I had more years with Lewie to enjoy his silly antics and irreplaceable companionship, I’ve channeled that longing into something constructive. Lew Dog Gives represents my commitment to all animals and my desire to foster a world where they are loved, respected, and protected.

This initiative is not just about a cookbook; it’s about creating a community anchored in the love we all share for our furry friends. The recipes within are a token of my gratitude and a way for people to integrate better nutrition into their dogs’ diets, thereby enhancing their overall quality of life.

For those interested in contributing to this beautiful mission, I encourage you to check out our cookbook. Every purchase not only promotes your dog’s well-being but also assists shelters and sanctuaries in their ongoing efforts to care for animals in need.

Join Us on This Journey

If you want to support animal welfare and share a bond with your dog through healthy cooking, you can order Healthy Cooking for Your Dog: Wholesome Recipes for a Long, Happy Life here.

As the Founder and Lead Animal Advocate with Lew Dog Gives, I invite you to join our journey of love, understanding, and advocacy for our beloved pets. Together, we can create a brighter, kinder world for animals everywhere.

For those wanting to contribute or learn more, the Pagosa Daily Post also welcomes submissions, photos, letters, and videos from community members who care deeply about Pagosa Springs and its beloved residents—both two-legged and four. Reach out at 970-903-2673 or pagosadailypost@gmail.com for more information.