Behind The Smile - Abby's Service Dog Journey

Meet Abigail. The beautiful, energetic, funny, friendly 13 year old girl that a lot of you have watched grow up here in our store. She is one of the most compassionate humans I know and is loved by everyone.

Abby however struggles with mental health. This past year has been rough, with a hospitalization and lots of treatments and therapies. Everyday life for her looks a little different than it seems on the outside. She is monitored constantly and doesn't have access to things other kids her age may. Even if everyone is telling her they love her she can get really down on herself within minutes and spirals into some dark thoughts.

It's not easy for her to admit this about herself and it's not even easy as her mom to write these words. Abby is ready though to end the stigma that goes with mental illness and perhaps other people can be helped with her story.

Through research we have decided that a service dog who would be able to watch her constantly would be so beneficial. The dog will be able to calm anxious behaviors, stop self harm, guard her in social settings, apply pressure therapy and even get help when needed. Of course a service dog is so very expensive so we are starting a fundraiser. You can give directly by giving to this go fund me or you can drop off your items at Owl's Nest in Johnson City to donate. 100% of the funds that we would normally pay you can go straight to Abby's dog and it's training.

Thank you in advance for sharing and giving.

We can't wait to add another very important family member and share our story along the way.