Fur-ever love

Lynette, Betsy the dog, and Doug

For ICAN supporters Doug and Lynette, their love story began with their shared love of dogs – a passion that continues to shape their lives today.

In 2015, Doug was faced with a challenge when he began a new job that required him to travel frequently, leaving him less time to care for his three dogs: Sadie, a senior yellow Labrador; Henry, a small rescue dog; and Betsy, a playful two-year-old yellow Labrador.

That’s where Lynette, Doug’s neighbor, stepped in.

A mutual friend had asked Lynette if she could help Doug care for his dogs, and she agreed to meet them.

“As you can imagine, the dogs were excited to meet someone new and we all hit it off right away,” said Lynette.

But when it was time for Lynette to begin her duties, Sadie had sadly passed away and Henry had moved to live with Doug’s daughter. This left only Betsy as Lynette’s new companion.

For several months, Lynette devoted herself to caring for Betsy during the week while Doug took her home on the weekends. Over time, this arrangement blossomed into a beautiful bond.

Before long, their shared moments turned into lunches and dinners, and Betsy became an inseparable part of their lives, joining them on countless adventures.

The love that they shared for Betsy eventually led to a love between Doug and Lynette, and a few years later, the pair got married.

Sadly, Betsy passed away a few years ago at the age of 15. But the memories of Lynette and Doug’s time with Betsy live on in their love story. For Lynette, volunteering with ICAN has become a way to honor Betsy’s life while helping others.

Now, as an active volunteer and puppy sponsor for ICAN, Lynette has found another way to spread love – through the annual ICAN Puppy Love Valentines fundraiser.

All proceeds from Puppy Love Valentines directly benefit ICAN, helping to train service dogs for Indiana adults, children, and Veterans living with disabilities.

Those interested in supporting ICAN’s mission can order a Puppy Love Valentine through February 7.

Boxes are priced between $50 and $60 and vary based on whether the box is picked up from the ICAN office or delivered in person by an ICAN service dog in training. This year, boxes can be delivered to homes, businesses, or schools within 40 miles of ICAN’s office in Zionsville.

Each order includes collectible coasters from CoasterStone, greeting cards, coffee, DeBrand Fine Chocolates, Endangered Species Chocolate, Warrior Bars from Bee Free, dog treats from Three Dog Bakery, dog artwork, and more.

To order an ICAN Puppy Love Valentine for yourself or a loved one, click here.