Camp Fido Retreat for Dogs

Hey friends,

For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Dawn O’Bryan. It was suggested to me that starting a Go Fund Me account could help with start up capital for a small business dream of mine and continue my work as an animal rescuer and foster!

So, after a lot of thought, going back and forth, and so many messages of support from friends and family here I am.

I have been rescuing animals since I was a young child. To date I have fostered over 300 animals, mostly dogs since I’m sadly, so allergic to kitty cats. I believe that we are all put on this earth with a purpose and even though at times I have struggled to know mine, animals are what give me that spark. I’ve always had this connection with animals, as far back as I can remember. Taking care of animals is something I love and I feel like is kind of my thing. ♥️

We purchased a property about 7 years ago. The total property sits on 3.5 acres with the kennel side around 1 acre. It’s a park like setting in the city surrounded by lots of pretty birds and beautiful trees. It’s an amazing place and any foster dog that I’ve had the pleasure of looking after has loved being here.

There used to be a very successful dog boarding business that was ran from our current property and that is what I would like to form again. A trusted place for people to bring their dogs while they are at work for the day, or away on vacation. It would be a small, by appointment only doggy retreat catered to spending one on one time with any furry friend staying with us.

This is a way for me to do what I love while still making a career out of it. As long as I’m able I will continue to foster and rescue dogs, after all thats what truly makes me happiest. In fact my goal is to always have an empty kennel open for dogs in need.

Since we’ve owned the property the actual kennel building has been primarily used by me for homeless dogs that I’ve fostered. I work with our local shelters and a few rescue organizations. It has saved many dogs lives while freeing up kennel space for other dogs in need at the shelter.

Funny enough I remember driving past our current home when I was a little girl. I knew there was something animal related going on at the property but I didn’t understand exactly what it was at the time, but I was still so intrigued and drawn to the place every single time we drove by.

While we have the brick and mortar to fulfill a dream and passion of mine in starting a doggy retreat business, there is still a lot to be done. There are several repairs, and a construction list that needs to be checked off to ensure a comfortable and safe setting for all those who visit with us. Then you have the general start up cost for any business alone. Insurance, legal forms, supplies, utilities, etc. Bottom line is that it takes money to make money so that’s why I’m here.

Like my Dad said to me once, “You have the airplane, but no gas.” This is the best analogy.:)

I felt bad thinking about creating this Go Fund Me since when I think of Go Fund Me accounts I feel like it’s for people who have emergencies, or are sick and of great need. Then after a few people encouraging me and looking into it a little more I learned that people actually do this sort of thing for the very same request I have.

We’ve had a few really harsh things happen the last few years in life. Life is hard, and sometimes it can be completely unbearable, but it can also be beautiful all at the same time. I don’t bring this up for sympathy or to make anyone sad, really it’s more of a reminder that through the darkness there can still be a little light.

I lost my spark, felt hopeless, and lost that zest for the things I once loved. I’m still a work in progress, grief will forever be around we just have to learn to live with it. Many times I told myself the doggy retreat business must not be meant to happen for me, but I read once that if something stays in your mind and you think about it daily there is a reason it’s still there. Maybe, just maybe, there is a bigger reason, and there is hope to fulfill a dream I have.

Even when my light felt gone, when the anxiety was at it highest, and I was at my lowest, there something about looking into an animals eyes that fills my soul. Dogs really are a woman’s/man’s best friend. ♥️

If you have it in your heart and budget;) I would be FURever grateful for any support you are able to contribute. I always say even the smallest amount can add up, so I’m grateful for anything you’re able to give. Even though this is for a business know the same brick and mortar has saved many many lives, and I never plan for that not to continue so YOU will also be apart in making that happen as well. It would be an amazing thing for the Southend community to have a comfy, fun, and safe place for pets to visit while their parents play.

Thank YOU ALL again, especially for the encouragement, I so appreciate you.

Dawn ♥️♥️