Paws & Effect

One Heart, Four Paws

2012-01-23T15:15:00.000-06:00

Please join us for One Heart, Four Paws on Sunday, February 12. This fundraiser will celebrate the human-animal bond with Luis Montalvan, the author of the New York Times bestseller, Until Tuesday. Mr. Montalvan, accompanied by his service dog, Tuesday, will speak about his experiences with a service dog and how his life has been enriched. A book signing will follow.

For more information about Mr. Montalvan, you may visit his website.

StoryTime - Family Series event at the Civic Center of Greater Des Moiens

2012-01-23T15:07:00.010-06:00

Civic Center of Greater Des Moines

Kids got to pet a Paws & Effect therapy dog while listening to StoryTime with Everybody Wins! Iowa.

— at Civic Center of Greater Des Moines.

Smiles!

How do they touch your life?

2012-01-23T13:10:00.003-06:00

Paws & Effect service dogs are featured in an article in the Wellness Branch Newsletter for Camp Dodge.

Click here for the complete story.

Another Amazing Pet Partner Workshop

2012-01-08T19:00:00.002-06:00

Paws & Effect taught a Pet Partner workshop at St Luke's in Cedar Rapids this weekend.

We continue to be amazed with the number of individuals who want to volunteer with their pets and the way St. Luke's has fully embraced the positive impact these animals can have on those we visit. Thanks to all that attended the workshop and we look forward to a successful evaluation in a few short weeks.

Abilities through Agility

2011-12-27T13:54:00.006-06:00

Paws & Effect got a feature article in the January – February 2012 issue of Bark Magazine.

We are thrilled to have our Abilities through Agility program at ChildServe highlighted.

Our volunteers have dedicated nearly 5 years to getting the program to this point. It is amazing what an impact they have had on the children we have had the pleasure to work with (really it's all about the dogs).

We are also extremely excited to see the progress the kids have made over the years.

Click here to read the article.

Making Des Moines More Accessible, One School At A Time

2011-12-12T22:16:00.000-06:00

Holiday Training at Jordan Creek

2011-12-11T12:30:00.000-06:00

Paws & Effect mobbed Santa for a photo during a training session at Jordan Creek Mall. We had so many dogs in attendence Santa's little helpers couldn't all fit all of them into one picture.

Santa was a good sport about the whole event and he even whispered to me that the dogs were better behaved than most of the kids and that the only thing the dogs wanted was to please their handlers! (that'll be our little secret)

The dogs practiced traversing escalators, being lifted and carried on elevators and walking through a crowded shopping mall.

Thank you to all the puppy raisers that have made 2011 a fantastically successful year.

New Thinking, New Possibilities

2011-11-20T06:49:00.003-06:00

Anthem, Valor and Hero with their respective handlers in Times Square.

Greetings from Paws & Effect Moose!

2011-11-13T12:11:00.002-06:00

Thanks, Steve, for giving us a glimpse of Moose at American Humane's annual appreciation dinner, A Round of Apaws.

Paws & Effect contributes to the 25th Anniversary of the ACAA!

2011-11-04T18:27:00.002-05:00

Paws & Effect has made a concentrated effort to promote accessibility for service dogs. Pretty neat when the Senior Trial Attorney for the US DOT catches a Paws & Effect video and wants to utilize it for an accessibility celebration in Washington DC!

Dear Ms. Shumate:

I am writing from the United States Department of Transportation’s Office of Aviation Enforcement and Proceedings (http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov/). In addition to enforcing various consumer rights laws, my office is responsible for enforcing laws and regulations related to non-discrimination in air travel on the basis of disability. The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), passed in 1986 (before the ADA), prohibits airlines from discriminating against air travelers on the basis of disability. My office enforces the provisions of the ACAA and its implementing regulation, 14 CFR Part 382. Part 382 is a comprehensive regulatory regime ensuring access to air travel for persons with disabilities. A key part of Part 382 is the requirement that air carriers accommodate individuals who use service animals by allowing their service animals in the cabin of the aircraft.

This year the 25^th anniversary of the ACAA, and the DOT is holding a celebration on November 9^th. Prior the celebration, we would like to show videos related to aircraft accessibility. We found your videos on You Tube where you train animals at the Des Moines Airport (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9CwDc-VQhE&feature=related) and would like to show the videos prior to the celebration as the crowd is gathering. It will not be distributed in any other manner or offered for any type of compensation. It will only be showed several times during a 30 minute time frame while attendees are preparing for the meeting. May we use your videos?

If you or anyone from your organization would be interested in attending the celebration, the invitation is below. Please feel free to forward the email to any other person you feel may be interested in attending.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your consideration.

Best regards,

Barbara M. Marrin

Senior Trial Attorney

United States Department of Transportation

Office of General Counsel

Aviation Enforcement and Proceedings

Office # W96-466

1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E.

Washington, D.C. 20590

(202) 366-9359 (phone)

(202) 366-7152 (facsimile)

Congratulations Paws & Effect!

2011-11-01T10:11:00.004-05:00

Paws & Effect was selected by the American Humane Association as a Charity Partner for the 2011 Hero Dog Awards. Beating out several other very worthy organizations, we received a $5,000 grant to further our crisis response work. Not only is the grant exciting, but the recognition of our efforts, the quality of the work we do and the ongoing support from the national community speaks volumes.

The red carpet, star studded awards ceremony that took place in Hollywood will air on television November 11 on the Hallmark Channel.

Hope you enjoy it!

Premieres
November 11, 2011
on Hallmark Channel

At the Grocery

2011-10-20T08:07:00.001-05:00

You'll never know who you'll run into at the grocery store.

Jake and Velo (Paws & Effect service dogs)

Nose to Nose

2011-10-20T08:04:00.000-05:00

The bond between animal and man is evident (science studies not included).

Connor and Bear enjoying quality time together.

Land Navigation - Service Puppy Team

2011-10-17T13:42:00.000-05:00

Images of the Land Navigation team of puppies. Each of their names corresponds to the military's land navigation vocabulary.

All the puppies been placed with puppy raisers and they are now on their way to being service dogs.

Nothing better than a pool of puppies.

Plenty of activity to keep the puppies distracted.

I can see everything from here.

It was a long day for Hilltop.

Pace. Playing in the leaves. Day 2.

Pet Partner Evaluations = Successful weekend

2011-10-17T13:08:00.001-05:00

Nothing gives as much (unconditional) love as does an animal does. Congratulations to Kim and Hope.

Paws & Effect hosted Pet Partner evaluations for our animal assisted therapy programs. We had every team pass the tests.

Welcome Land Navigators!

2011-10-14T11:44:00.000-05:00

A Successful First Charity Walk!

2011-10-09T17:31:00.000-05:00

THANK YOU to Grace Rice for organizing our first benefit walk! Almost $2,500 was raised to offset the costs associated with acquiring the Land Navigation Litter. Look for them in a community near you after October 14!

Thank you Quaker Oats, Pepsico and Cap'n Crunch

2011-09-24T20:31:00.002-05:00

With support from Pepsico's Enable and Valor groups, more than $3,100 was raised at the Cedar Rapids Farmer's Market. We can't express how much we appreciate their efforts!

2011-09-24T20:30:00.001-05:00

And just for good measure....Michelle and Valor!

2011-09-21T19:50:00.001-05:00

Michelle and Valor up the ante....

2011-09-19T18:05:00.001-05:00

Puppy Raiser Throw Down

2011-09-14T20:18:00.001-05:00

This video demonstrates one of the ways in which dogs are taught to put their paws in an exact location to "stack." When a dog stacks, they hold themselves rigid so that a person who is mobility impaired can place one hand between the dog's shoulders to help push themselves into a standing position.

Way to go Michelle and Valor! This is, in fact, a throw down!

You're welcome!

2011-09-08T21:06:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to the Military Litter

2011-08-27T16:48:00.003-05:00

One year ago the Paws & Effect Military Litter began a journey to being great service dogs. They have all grown up and they are learning the ways of working. We celebrated their first birthday by hosting a party at the Gold Star Museum at Camp Dodge, Iowa. We had nearly all the service dogs present for the unveiling of the all new public service announcements and the 6 minute puppy raiser documentary.

Paws & Effect was also surprised with a $2,000.00 donation from the Integer Group in Denver. During their performance party this year they auctioned off t-shirts to raise money for Paws & Effect. We truly appreciate the thoughts and the donation, it will be used wisely. And we truly were shocked to see someone from Denver show up at the party with a HUGE check.

Thank you to one and all!

All puppy raisers got a piece of the cake.

You're Invited!

2011-08-10T11:00:00.003-05:00

As seen on WHO TV (13)

2011-08-04T11:00:00.000-05:00

Paws & Effect was included in the WHOTV story about the Iowa soldiers coming home. Our service dog Tag and Paws & Effect are featured at 3:50 into the story.

The other end of the leash.

2011-07-28T09:31:00.003-05:00

Thanks, SSG Raymond, for making Tag accessible to so many!

A friendly presence at Fort McCoy!

2011-07-13T07:52:00.002-05:00

The Iowa National Guard is in the process of bringing home their Soldiers from Afghanistan. Tag's been fortunate to be part of their redeployment, greeting them with tail wags and enthusiasm. We're looking forward to sharing more photos and stories as they become available.

Rob Bolin - American Idol Contestant

2011-07-06T13:46:00.000-05:00

Rob Bolin - American Idol contestant headlined the benefit concert for Paws & Effect. Special thanks goes out to the concert promoter, Steve Sutton for putting together a fantastic time, to the American Legion Riders, to Darren Price for organizing the volunteers, and to the volunteers and puppy raisers.

Steve Sutton, Dawn Janssen, Nicole Shumate, and Rob Bolin

American Legion Riders volunteer through the weekends events.

Rob Bolin - talking about Paws & Effect

MC Darren Price giving credits to our volunteers.

Rob Bolin stayed to sign autographs.

Times-Republican Marshalltown, Iowa

2011-07-05T18:03:00.001-05:00

Click here for a PDF of the article.

Benefit Concert for Paws & Effect

2011-06-22T14:15:00.000-05:00

Rob Bolin, American Idol contestant, will be the headliner for a fundraising concert.

July 4, 2011 - 7:00 PM
Nelson Park, Slater Iowa.

Paws & Effect will be the recipient of the contributions.

A night at the Barnstormers

2011-06-20T20:17:00.000-05:00

Paws & Effect service dogs and puppy raisers were invited to attend the Barnstormers game on Saturday night. In the spot light were Valor, Anthem, Archer, Tag, Jake and Ryder (the service dogs).

They, the service dogs and their puppy raisers, took the field at half-time and were given the spotlight to the applause by the AFL's Barnstorming fans. It was quite an honor to be a part of the show on the same evening they were giving props to the National Guard for all their service to our country.

A week well spent!

2011-06-18T07:52:00.000-05:00

We were able to attend the Muster at the Community Based Warrior Transition Unit at Rock Island Arsenal this past week and what a week it was! We are very much looking forward to returning in August.

Benefit Ride

2011-06-16T12:02:00.000-05:00

American Legion Riders are hosting a benefit ride for Paws & Effect July 9, 2011.
Sounds like a GREAT ride or drive which ever you prefer.

Click here for more information.

Thank you for leading.

2011-06-04T20:19:00.001-05:00

For sharing, believing, inspiring and caring. So much is possible. Diana, the world is immeasurably better because of you.

Growing up.

2011-06-01T15:26:00.000-05:00

It seems like it was just yesterday....

Jake (Paws & Effect's orange lab) celebrated his 1st birthday at the ballpark. Jake will tell you it's a lot of work to be a service dog in training but the rewards go way beyond all the effort.

It's fair to say that we're a well supported organization.

2011-05-30T09:21:00.000-05:00

Thanks, Sherpa!

2011-05-30T09:05:00.002-05:00

It's been a topic of discussion several times, the fact that there are facility dogs in Afghanistan, supporting our troops. I guess one has to travel all the way to Bagram to get the low down!

Read about it here.

Chances Dances

2011-05-24T12:38:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful weekend of dog agility. Paws & Effects 'Spring Fling' was a nearly perfect weekend of weather, running and awards.

Chances Dances shows the delicate balance between dog and handler while working from a distance.

Familiar faces!

2011-05-24T11:45:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday, Roo!

2011-05-24T09:53:00.000-05:00

We don't get to see him too often as he's enjoying New Orleans with his raiser, Alexa. It is always an extra special treat to get photos of Roo. Here he is, already one!

Great times at the Iowa Speedway! $1,700 raised!

2011-05-23T19:21:00.000-05:00

Who's got your back?

2011 Telly Awards

2011-05-22T12:04:00.001-05:00

Judging has been completed for the 32nd Annual Telly Awards submissions and Paws & Effect's public service announcements received two bronze awards.

One for the PSA video campaign and another one for copy writing.

We couldn't be more honored to receive this acknowledgment from the Silver Telly Council for the excellent work that Paws & Effect presented.

Special thanks goes out to Todd Cerveris and Kim Spurlock for producing these very moving PSA's.

We also have to thank the cast, crew and volunteers for the four days of filming that led to these great TV spots with a spectacular message. Click on the "Public Service Announcement" tab to view these for yourself.

What's behind Door #1, Valor?

2011-05-14T14:49:00.000-05:00

Now there's a familiar face!

2011-05-10T17:46:00.002-05:00

Best Photos of the Weekend

2011-05-09T07:01:00.000-05:00

See us in the Des Moines Register!

We're eligible to participate in the Combined Federal Campaign!

2011-05-06T18:05:00.000-05:00

It is with great celebration that we share our eligibility to participate in the Combined Federal Campaign! This designation is awarded to nonprofit organizations that can demonstrate that they are operating within very strict fiscal guidelines and that they have a "substantial local presence" in the community they serve.

It was no small effort to garner this recognition and a HUGE thanks is owed to Andy Burgraff for the many, many hours he contributed in preparing all the necessary forms and applications.

Honoring Steve Layton and Liberty

2011-04-29T09:27:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow, a man who honored fallen Soldiers will himself be honored at the Freedom Center. Steve Layton, a bagpiper for many local military funerals, passed away suddenly this week. Here he is pictured with Paws & Effect Liberty at Joint Force Headquarters.

You may read more about Mr. Layton here.

Silver ADDY® Award

2011-04-28T13:41:00.000-05:00

Nothing goes with a nice Chardonnay like a Silver ADDY® Award.

Paws & Effect received their Silver ADDY® at the AAF (American Advertising Federation) luncheon today at Jasper Winery.

The depth competition in District 9 was amazing and we are honored to accept this prize for our public service announcements (click on the Public Service Announcement tab to see what all the hallaballoo is all about)

We again want to thank all of our volunteers, sponsors, and creative team for putting together an incredibly moving message.

Statistically speaking, of course.

2011-04-27T14:52:00.000-05:00

It cost an average of $1010.12 per puppy in the Military Litter to have them spayed or neutered, microchipped and updated on their vaccinations (let us not overlook the cost of the surgical removal of one squeaker....) We aren't quite done purchasing Heartguard for the year.

Thankfully, the insurance will cover some of the costs....

To Serve and Deliver

2011-04-26T07:50:00.000-05:00

I will openly admit here that Velo did not learn the following skill through Paws & Effect. Mike has been working diligently to expand Velo's skill set and we are all impressed with the results.

MG Orr welcomes Ryder to Joint Force Headquarters

2011-04-20T12:44:00.000-05:00

Liberty and the Kernel.

2011-04-17T23:04:00.003-05:00

Liberty, one of the service puppies from the military litter, got several opportunities to 'do the town' this weekend. Her performance was exemplary in every one of the public settings.

Liberty and the Kernel.
It should be no surprise that the floors of many restaurants have morsels of goodness sprinkled and spread throughout. As was the case this morning when Liberty spotted a single kernel of corn that was left over from a previous patron but Liberty did the right thing and kept her distance.

Shortly there after she was on her side dreaming of great days ahead.

After a long morning of work Liberty was rewarded to an afternoon in the backyard playing with all the pet dogs.

Now that's a dogs life.

We all know deep inside she was 'willing' that kernel to come to her but that wasn't going to work out that way. This experience shows that she's has been exposed to similar situations and her restraint proves that she's on track to be a great service dog.

Who's Ready for the Red Bulls?!?

2011-04-14T14:01:00.000-05:00

Here at Canine Craze, we are nearly set! We're bringing both the Military Litter and the Red Bull Litter together for a proper send off as the new ones go to their puppy raisers. We've got food, toys, crates...all we're missing is....PUPPIES!

Thank you PepsiCo and Quaker!

2011-04-13T13:17:00.000-05:00

A huge THANK YOU to Cedar Rapids VALOR and EnAble for their support and donations. The $5,500 they raised offset the cost of acquiring the five puppies in the Red Bull Litter, purchasing health insurance, dog food, toys and all the extras that come along with the new additions.

Guess who won a 2011 PRIME Award?!

2011-04-12T22:01:00.000-05:00

Paws & Effect took home a PRIME Award for our "We Serve with Honor" campaign. PRSA (Public Relations Society of America) hosts the prime awards every year to celebrate the best PR and corporate communications work in the community.

Not to be out done by our winning an award, 9 week old Archer stole the show. However he quickly became a 15 pound sack of potatoes and fell fast asleep by the end of the presentation. Tonight was Archers' first public appearance and he enjoyed wearing his Propper MultiCam (camouflage) service dog vest.

What a great night for Paws & Effect and for all our volunteers and supporters.

We know what it takes to make a difference.

Hooah, Paws & Effect!

2011-04-12T07:03:00.000-05:00

Fiyero has been placed!

2011-04-08T19:45:00.000-05:00

After a few days at Camp Dodge learning a bit more about dog training and public access, Fi was placed with combat veteran Steven. Looks like they are off to a great start!

Paws & Effect Service dog and puppy raiser on KCCI

2011-04-07T10:14:00.000-05:00

Paws & Effect service dog Jake and puppy raiser Becky Beach were interviewed on KCCI last night.

What a great story.

Check out the coverage.

Darwin the Dinosaur is more than just a dinosaur.

2011-04-04T12:17:00.002-05:00

Photo by Dani Ausen

Paws & Effect joined in the fun of discovery at the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines' Family Series event on Saturday April 2.

The kids and parents alike got to interact with the dogs at one of the discovery stations. As you can see in the photo one of the Pet Partners, Michelle Walker and Lizzie, connected with the kids.

There is nothing like having a dog smile back!

We are so privileged to have such innovative opportunities in the community to make a difference. Thank You to the Civic Center for hosting another one of Des Moines best family events ever and for inviting Paws & Effect to take part.

Archer

2011-04-03T21:59:00.001-05:00

We welcome the first installment of Paws & Effect's Red Bull litter. His name is Archer.

The second military litter of service puppies will be named to honor Iowa National Guard's 34th Infantry "Red Bull" Division.

Each puppy will have a designation (name) assigned that matches the Red Bull's call signals.

Read more about the Red Bull division.

Fundraiser at Sticks

2011-04-01T20:14:00.001-05:00

Paws & Effect was celebrated at a fundraiser held at Sticks last night. We are extremely pleased to have so many attend and support our cause.

A special Thank You goes to Becky Beach and Jeff Lamberti for believing in the program and putting together a wonderful event.

We must also thank all the volunteers and the countless hours that it took to seam all the pieces together and to Sticks for creating the original art and providing part of the proceeds of the dog themed items.

We are truly impressed by the support extended for a program we so deeply believe in: the placement of service dogs to support our Iowa National Guard troops upon return from deployment.

Congratulations Nicole.

2011-03-31T10:37:00.000-05:00

"Everyone loves puppies" - Nicole describing the photograph projected.

Congratulations to Nicole Shumate on your winning the Business Records "Forty Under 40" Award.

"Central Iowa’s future is in good hands, as you’ll see when you read about the members of the Business Record’s “Forty Under 40” class for 2011. The young honorees have put together remarkable resumes, filled with professional success and civic contributions, and we’re proud to recognize their achievements."

We Serve with Honor

2011-03-30T22:28:00.000-05:00

A GOLD Star and Silver Award Event

2011-03-30T11:56:00.001-05:00

Todd Cerveris - Producer/Director
Nicole Shumate - Executive Director of Paws & Effect
Renee Jetter presented stories from behind the scenes.

Paws & Effect brought together the cast, crew and supporters to formally launch our public service announcements.

Four days of filming, several weeks of post production including modifying the scripts, editing, voice overs and composing the background music (not to mention the several hundred volunteered man hours that went into producing the 5 TV spots) resulted in 2 1/2 minutes of airtime.

Roggen-Grind - One of the 'dog stars' of the PSA was
on hand to receive the Regional Silver ADDY award.

During the launch party it was announced, to our surprise, that our work not only won a Gold ADDY award for advertising and a Top Ten Overall at the local level but we also won a Regional Silver ADDY(R) award. The spots now move on to national competition!

We can't express enough how proud we are of our volunteers, the cast and crew for the PSAs but also for the Iowa soldiers that serve our country with selfless pride and honor that provided the backdrop for message.

Congratulations to Paws & Effect.

Thanks to everyone.

April Fools Fun Run

2011-03-29T09:09:00.004-05:00

Paws & Effect's April Fool Fun Run Premium has been posted. Join us Sunday April 16, 2011 for a fun-filled day of obstacles.

Click here for a Word document with the details.

Click here for a PDF with the details.

Vote For Paws & Effect Moose

2011-03-24T17:47:00.000-05:00

Bissell hosts an online competition by which the winning contestant can direct a donation to their favorite charity. Please vote for Paws & Effect Moose daily this week by registering here, and then searching for:

Moose

Pet Parent: Steve H. Entrant #: 128712

Congratulations to our executive director!

2011-03-24T05:12:00.000-05:00

Here's what they said about her in the Business Record's 40 Under Forty article that recognizes 2011's Honorees:

Age 38 | Executive director, Paws & Effect

Nicole Shumate came to Iowa from Colorado to get a law degree from Drake University, but ended up following another passion.

Shumate runs a nonprofit company called Paws & Effect, which trains therapy and service dogs and places them with people who need them. Right now, the organization is focused on placing dogs with combat veterans in Iowa who have disabilities or who have been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder.

“Dog training has always been an interest of mine,” said Shumate, who used to raise and train dogs in Colorado. “As far as placing dogs with combat veterans, I just felt like it was our role in the community to really meet that purpose, having so many soldiers deployed right now.”

Shumate founded the organization in 2006, and said she kept it under the radar while going through law school, where she earned a degree in 2009. She decided to continue with dog training rather than go into practicing law.

“It was just a good education to have,” she said, noting that she’s able to utilize it in her role as executive director.

Her mission to help soldiers caught the attention of her mentor, Iowa Army National Guard Maj. Amy Price.

“Just the passion and drive that she’s given to this passion of hers – I’ve never seen a nonprofit organization do so many things for soldiers,” Price said.

Shumate also uses her organization to help out with ChildServe, a nonprofit that provides services to families with children who have special health-care needs. Through that, she works with a child to meet once a week and complete a dog agility course.

Shumate is also a team leader in critical incident stress management (CISM) debriefing for the Iowa Disaster Behavioral Health Response Team and is a CISM facilitator for the Federal Emergency Management Agency in Iowa.

She has been involved with Orchard Place as a member of the pet therapy team, and worked with a number of pet nonprofit programs in Colorado before moving to Des Moines.

Price said: “We teach our soldiers about Army values with the acronym LDRSHIP – loyalty, duty, respect for others, honor, integrity, personal courage – she just encompasses all of those values.”

Next to Normal.

2011-03-20T13:34:00.000-05:00

It is next to normal to see Paws & Effect service dogs attending a performance at the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines. They were incredibly well mannered and chimed in during a well timed moment of the musical Next to Normal.

Whitfield & Eddy gives to Paws & Effect

2011-03-15T20:50:00.001-05:00

Each month Whitfield & Eddy selects a community organization to support for its "Casual for a Cause" day (a casual dress day for a donation). In February, Paws & Effect, a non-profit organization based in Des Moines, was chosen. This organization raises, trains and places service dogs and therapy dogs for the disabled and for disabled returning veterans. There is no charge to the disabled to receive a dog. Paws & Effect relies almost entirely on community donations.
This is an organization which is close to us since member Megan Antenucci's spouse now has a service dog through Paws & Effect.
Through the generous donations of our members and employees at Whitfield, we contributed over $1200 to this very worthy cause.

Whitfield & Eddy

Laissez les bons temps rouler!

2011-03-14T19:49:00.004-05:00

Here's Paws & Effect Roo, enjoying New Orleans with his puppy raiser Alexa! We miss having him close, but we know he is doing well.

Spring Fling - Agility Trial

2011-03-14T16:52:00.004-05:00

The Paws & Effect Spring Fling dog agility trial is just around the corner. There is no better time than NOW to download the premium and get prepared for a really FUN TIME!

Check out the Spring Fling 2010 video.

Premium downloads.

Spring Fling Trial Premium - Word Doc

Spring Fling Trial Premium - PDF

Hero: Eats Squeaker And Lives

2011-03-13T19:21:00.004-05:00

To allay any concerns about Paws & Effect Hero, he is resting comfortably at Iowa Veterinary Specialties. After a long night of diagnostic procedures and early afternoon surgery, he is expected to make a full recovery. He is now squeaker free.

Jadeon and his new service dog Keeper

2011-03-12T08:01:00.004-06:00

We are so happy for Jadeon and his service dog Keeper. We can't tell who has the biggest smile! WHO TV covered his story.

AUSA Newsletter

2011-03-08T09:55:00.004-06:00

Paws & Effect got an article in the first Des Moines Freedom Chapter newsletter.

AUSA Newsletter article. Click here for a PDF.

Thank you Whitfield & Eddy!

2011-03-04T03:34:00.002-06:00

Dress Down Day was a great success!

Winter Classic - Dog Agility Trial

2011-03-01T08:55:00.007-06:00

Paws & Effect is fortunate to be able to host NADAC dog agility trials in the middle of Iowa's winter. What a great way to kick off the new year by playing with the dogs.

This year did not disappoint! It was cold. It was snowy. Most of all, it was FUN.

Huge congratulations to Ross & Wiggs for earning their 1000 Points Award! We are so proud of your accomplishment!

Enjoy our 4th Annual Winter Classic video.

A hearty congratulations to our executive director!

2011-02-25T18:10:00.004-06:00

Nicole Shumate is a 2011 Honoree! Watch for more information at the end of March.

Interview on Drake TV

2011-02-25T11:16:00.003-06:00

Paws and Effect was featured on Drake University's news channel last week. Enjoy catching a peek of Keeper and Liberty, being raised by SSG Banta and COL Hapgood, respectively.

Paws & Effect takes the Gold

2011-02-20T18:28:00.005-06:00

Paws & Effect teamed up with The Woods Productions in October to produce five public service announcements. The effort kicked off our community awareness campaign, sharing the fact that we are raising, training and placing service dogs with combat veterans residing in and around Iowa.

We are pleased to announce that our "We Serve with Honor" TV spots were awarded the 2010 Gold ADDY Award at Des Moines' American Advertising Federation's (AAF) Dog & Pony show. The PSAs will move on to the Region 9 Competition, to compete with projects from seven other states.

Little did we know we would be a Big Dog in the pony show.

We will be formally launching the PSAs at the Iowa National Guard's Gold Star Museum on March 28, 2011. This FREE event starts at 4:30 P.M. If interested in joining us (and we hope you are!), please RSVP to Major Amy Price (amy.price@us.army.mil).

Article in Militia Man

2011-02-15T08:03:00.003-06:00

Check out the Paws & Effect article in Militia Man magazine.

See PDF here.

A great Family Series event.

2011-02-13T16:49:00.005-06:00

Paws & Effect joined the Des Moines Public Library at the literacy corner discovery station during the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines' Family Series event on Saturday February 12.

The story teller read the featured stories, Leo Lionni's Swimmy, Frederick, and Inch by Inch.

The kids interacted with the dogs while being mesmorized by the stories. The dogs, the kids and the parents all got something postive out our station. Nothing more special then getting the biggest smiles from the kids.

We want to send out a special thanks to the Civic Center for hosting one of the best Family Series events ever.

Do service dogs sleep with teddy bears?

2011-02-09T07:48:00.002-06:00

Workshop Plus - Cedar Rapids

2011-02-05T20:28:00.007-06:00

The enthusiasm and participation are tremendous in Cedar Rapids. We've once again filled the workshop to the brim with diverse interests, backgrounds and the types of animals everyone is going to evaluate. St. Luke's Hospital has fully embraced the Delta Society program and their facility fosters the use of animals at every avenue.

St. Luke's rehab unit is something that a lot of hospitals would dream to have, you'd have to see it to understand. Today's class took a field trip up to the rehab unit and experienced animal assisted therapy first hand. Diane, and her Pet Partner Wrigley, are integrated into different tasks which we take for granted. When I spoke with a client, he commented on how much he enjoyed his time with the dog. A true motivational tool.

Not to over achieve but I also broke loose from the workshop and hammered out six Pet Partner evaluations with a majority of success. Thanks to everyone who put in that extra effort and passed.

We've got another day of the workshop to go on what happens to be "Super Bowl Sunday". Now that's truly a sacrifice. We've promised to wrapp up in enough time for most to be able to get in on the pre-game show.

A huge thank you to Pepsi EnAble!

2011-02-04T19:38:00.007-06:00

Catching up with us via New York City!

2011-01-31T17:42:00.002-06:00

Many of you will remember Pet Partner Butley, the American Staffordshire Terrier that we cared for in his owner's absence (they were going to Toronto for six weeks and couldn't bring Butley with them.) Once we forgave them for coming home and rightfully claiming Butley, we realized that Todd and Angie were great fun and very committed to many things Paws & Effect.

Todd returned to Iowa recently to help us film the We Serve With Honor PSA campaign, furthering a really great relationship with us. We caught up with Todd in an interview Saturday that aired here on a local, Des Moines radio station.

The interview starts right at 39:50. Enjoy!

Thanks to everyone.

2011-01-23T01:30:00.001-06:00

Just what do they say about Paws & Effect dog agility trials?

"... just want to send out a BIG thank you to Paws & Effect for hosting a
wonderful trial this past weekend! As always it was a ton of fun! Thank you
to all of you guys at Paws & Effect for all the hard work you do to make it
so fun for everyone and run so smoothly!"

- Toby, Tag, Andie, & Mitzee

"My lil' girl had so much fun today that she just ran a touch-n-go (dog agilty) course in her sleep. She wagged her tail just before waking. Clean Run!"
- Eric Shumate

"Big thanks goes out to the Nelsons, and especially the trial secretary, Charlene, for holding this whole gig together! Those "day of" entries could sink any other group ... but not Paws & Effect."
- Anonymous participant

"You host a well organized and smoothly run event ... your numbers will go up."
- Jean, NADAC Judge

At the end of the day we all left with our tails waggin'.

Winter Classic

2011-01-17T13:30:00.000-06:00

Our 4TH ANNUAL (count 'em - 4th!!!) Winter Classic Dog Agility Trial is nearly upon us.

After 4 years of use our sand bags started to split at the seams but thanks to new technology and a large open basement I was able to dump all the contents of the bags (lots and lots of gravely sand), turn the bags inside out, wash and dry them (by hanging them on our spare shower railing), Gorilla Tape the inside seams, turn them back to right side out, double line the insides so I could fill them again with all the gravely sand. Fun! Yes, Fun-fun!

The totally amazing aspect to the whole charade is that I didn't have any left-over sand! The bags filled back up perfectly and they all weigh the exact same amount. I'll say so again, That's Amazing.

As of today we have a favorable forecast for a great day of dog trialing ... we'll see you in the ring!

Show me how it's done.

2011-01-10T18:32:00.006-06:00

After two years of working towards the goal of having a registered therapy dog, Steve and Moose accomplished the task, passing Delta Society's Pet Partner® evaluation. Steve has accomplished a lot over the last year. He's attended the Pet Partner workshop held at American Humane in Denver, developed a harmonious relationship with his dog and has an aptitude for what can happen in any environment.

We are proud of all that he has accomplished and KNOW that we are PROUD of all of the Pet Partners in Iowa who seek out the opportunity to change someone's life, even if for a moment in time.

Passing by the neutral dog. Roggen is so neutral she might actually be going backwards. (does that make her a reverse dog? - humor?!)

Out of the corner of my eye, while checking all the relevant boxes, I see Steve continuing to work his dog in the environment and around the equipment.

Lastly, "may I offer your dog a treat?"

Get To Know....Nicole Shumate

2011-01-07T06:46:00.001-06:00

In the Des Moines' Register's Business Section!

Cy Fan!

2011-01-04T08:27:00.003-06:00

It costs HOW MUCH?

2011-01-03T14:47:00.003-06:00

Yeah. I'm startled myself. You always see those studies and figures that talk about how much it costs to care for a dog. Well. I just finished calculating how much the Military Litter has set us back, not including crates, toys or, goodness gracious, food. Or the cost to buy them to begin with. Also not included in this figure is the cost of health insurance. Granted, some of this will be reimbursed, but not nearly as much as you'd think.

So. Here goes.

Seven puppies, all vaccinations accomplished. All have solid stools (let me tell you, this is no small feat). They are parasite free (so far as I know) and have been given the benefit of a Bordetella vaccination, too. One puppy had deciduous teeth removed, two puppies went to Iowa Veterinary Specialties for emergencies.

We haven't gotten any dog spayed or neutered.

How much?

$422 per dog. So far.

Not to be outdone....

2011-01-03T11:20:00.002-06:00

The Antenucci Family took SDIT Velo for a few weeks over the holidays. They saw today's posting and wanted us to know that he's got a penchant for snuggling in the bed, too.

I was told, in NO uncertain terms....

2011-01-03T09:20:00.004-06:00

That SD Gabor had a place in his Sailor's heart and in his home. Specifically, that place was NOT on the furniture, especially NOT on the bed.

Now, I know full well that Gabor is loved and cared for. I knew he would be a great match for his recipient. I knew that only a dog like Gabor (strong willed, stubborn, petulant, committed, demanding....) would hold up to a man whose PTSD has had the better of him for many, many decades.

But I was told there would be limits. And the bed was THE limit. NO dogs on the bed. Of course, the evidence speaks for itself. In a message titled, "Whose bed is it anyway?" I received this photo. Seems Gabor has not only found a place in this man's heart, but has finally found a place in his bed, as well.

Kicking off the New Year.

2011-01-02T19:44:00.002-06:00

Kicking off the New Year with our January "Birthday Bash" Fun Run. The day has come and gone in a blur but there was sunshine that shone and barely a cloud in the sky.

Happy Birthday to Bryan and a couple of the dogs in attendance.

Great big thanks to those of you who attended and look forward to the our sanctioned NADAC trail in two weeks!

Just never know ...

2010-12-29T13:09:00.003-06:00

Never know what you'll run into at the mall, now do you? Keeper, a Paws & Effect service dogran into Ryan (a friend). It was none too soon as the crowds intensity was nearly overwhelming for Ryan.

Applause to the family who was hosting Keeper over the holidays. Without hesitation they took to the mall. What a great time of year to get public exposure, like none other, for the service dogs in training.

We Serve With Honor PSAs

2010-12-20T17:26:00.002-06:00

You might have noticed that we're one of those organizations that makes every single effort to get it right and share that with you. I'm proud to share that we received American Humane's Not Monitored, Production Compliant rating, the highest rating we were eligible to receive for our filming of the Public Service Announcements.

Kudos to everybody who participated in this effort! We feel strongly that our dogs be trained and handled in a manner that demonstrates sincere respect for their care, every step of the way.

It shows!

Stay posted for the early-Spring release of these great PSAs.

Happy Holidays from the Military Litter!

2010-12-18T13:43:00.002-06:00

Roo Roo Roo

2010-12-15T08:46:00.004-06:00

Found footage of Mr. Roo, a Paws & Effect service puppy getting himself stuck on the outdoor table. What goes up must come down? In this case, Mr. Roo wanted help down.

They're only little once!

2010-12-13T14:02:00.002-06:00

And they're oh-so-cute when out and about in public. Here's Michelle and her service dog in-training, Valor.