In Memory of Steven Barker: Arya Barker Trust Fund

On July 22, 2022, we tragically and suddenly lost our dear Steven – beloved brother, son, friend, and dog dad.

Arya, Steven’s playful and spunky German Shepherd, has been his closest earthly companion. From college in Athens, GA, to Wilmington, DE, back to Atlanta, to Augusta, and finally to Woodstock, GA, she never left Steven’s side. In return, the Barker family is committed to never leaving Arya’s side. We hope to give her a future that fulfills everything Steven dreamed of for her.

Steven adopted Arya as a puppy in the fall of 2016, intending to one day have her trained as a therapy dog. Therapy dogs are a subset of service animals that undergo rigorous training to engage in situations where their presence can reduce anxiety and inspire happiness – for example, hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and even airports. Once trained, we envision volunteering Arya’s therapy dog services around Augusta, which ironically has a shortage of therapy dogs. After her many years of supporting Steven, we are confident in Arya’s ability to provide comfort to others in need.

So, in lieu of flowers, etc., we request that donations be made to the Arya Barker Trust Fund. In addition to professional obedience and therapy dog training, these funds will be used to provide Arya with the highest standard of care throughout her lifetime.

To be transparent about the costs underlying the GoFundMe goal, we are providing the following estimate (with the most relevant links possible):

• Comprehensive Obedience Training: $880

• Therapy Dog Training: $1170

• Pet Insurance: $750 per year

• Veterinary Care: $800 per year

• Heartworm Medication: $76 per year

• Flea & Tick Prevention: $136 per year

• Deshedding Treatments: $400 per year

• Dog Food: $675 per year

• Balls & Chew Toys: $50 per year

Based on these numbers, Arya’s age (almost 6), and the average lifespan of a German Shepherd (11 years), the total estimate is $16,485.

To keep up with Arya's life and our realization of Steven's dreams for her, we invite you to follow her newly created Instagram: @stevensaryalegacy

Nothing would please Steven more than knowing that his most trusted companion would remain with his family, be a source of comfort to others, and have her needs met by those who loved him. Any help you can provide is deeply appreciated.