The Unwavering Mission of Kennel to Couch: Turning Heartbreak into Hope for At-Risk Canines

According to data aggregated from different sources, Every year, 3.3 million dogs enter shelters and 670,000 are euthanized.

This is poignant reality for countless dogs, within shelters. These vulnerable canines often find themselves ensnared in a cycle of neglect and misunderstanding, desperately yearning for compassion and a chance at a loving home. It’s within this context of profound challenges that Kennel to Couch has stepped forward, embarking on a mission to rewrite the narratives of these at-risk animals and to offer them hope and sanctuary.

In a devoted endeavor to alter the tragic fate of countless at-risk canines, Kennel to Couch emerges as a beacon of hope, tirelessly working to rescue, protect, and secure loving homes for dogs stranded in shelters. The profound journey of this commendable organization began when Thomas Bohne and his family adopted a stray dog, Rocky, and experienced a transformative journey of love and understanding.

The unfortunate passing of Rocky after a short battle with IMHA in 2018 left the Bohne family with a profound desire to create a sanctuary for canines in need. Honoring Rocky’s memory, the Bohne family founded Kennel to Couch, aiming to connect these misunderstood canines with families, breaking stereotypes and offering the dogs a chance at a loving home.

Mission to Protect

Kennel to Couch operates with a two-fold mission: Firstly, to collaborate with partner shelters in preventing the euthanasia of sponsored animals due to overcrowding, thereby buying time to find them a permanent home. Secondly, the organization strives to shatter the stereotypes associated with shelter animals. By forging partnerships with community entities and acclaimed programs, it ensures these dogs receive support and professional training, assisting the devoted families who choose to adopt them.

Harnessing Partnerships for Rescue: 

The organization has created substantial alliances with shelters, trainers, and community partners, focusing on sponsoring dogs languishing in shelters for extended periods. This collective approach to promoting dog rescue entails expanding adoption sponsorship packages, with partner shelters pledging to safeguard sponsored dogs from being euthanized due to space constraints.

The Current State of At-Risk Canines: The situation of at-risk canines in shelters across the country is a stark reminder of the profound challenges and adversities these animals face. Many of these canines, especially stereotyped breeds, often find themselves in precarious circumstances, struggling for survival in overcrowded shelters where resources and space are severely limited.

Overcrowding is one of the pivotal issues in shelters, often leading to the dire option of euthanasia. This challenge is exacerbated for some breeds, which, due to deeply ingrained stereotypes and misperceptions, face higher rates of abandonment and lower rates of adoption. The unfortunate confluence of overcrowding and prejudice means that many dogs are left living in anxiety and despair, with their chances of finding a loving home rapidly diminishing.

Moreover, the pervasive negative perceptions about sheltered animals result in a societal reluctance to adopt them, further intensifying their vulnerability. The lack of understanding and acceptance of these dogs has led to them being unfairly labeled as aggressive and untrustworthy, obscuring their true nature as loving, loyal, and trainable pets.

It’s in this concerning context that Kennel to Couch is operating, fervently working to alleviate the suffering and uncertainty experienced by these at-risk canines. By addressing the root causes of their plight, the organization aims to reshape public perception, advocating for informed understanding and compassionate acceptance of shelter dogs. This involves not just rescuing these animals from immediate danger but also creating an environment where they are viewed with love and respect.

Kennel to Couch underscores the urgency of enacting positive change for these at-risk canines, promoting education and awareness to overturn the prevailing negative stereotypes. The organization strives to reveal the true, loving character of dogs, providing them with the opportunity to lead fulfilled lives as valued members of loving families.

A Legacy of Love

Inspired by the enduring love and joy brought by Rocky, Kennel to Couch is a living tribute to his memory, translating the Bohne family’s commitment into tangible actions that protect and celebrate the essence of all dogs. By providing support, advocacy, and education, the organization is forging a future where no dog suffers due to misunderstanding or neglect, a future where every canine knows the warmth of a loving home.

The Heart Behind Kennel to Couch

Thomas Bohne’s decision to found Kennel to Couch is deeply rooted in a tapestry of personal experiences, reflections, and a profound connection with animals. He shared some of the motivations behind his noble initiative and why others should consider being part of this transformative journey:

Personal Connection

Many years ago, a stray named Rocky found refuge in Thomas’s life, offering solace and companionship during challenging times. This unexpected encounter forged a unique bond between them, embedding a lasting sense of gratitude and connection within Thomas. It was Rocky’s unwavering companionship that kindled a desire within Thomas to give back and extend a helping hand to animals in desperate need, leading to the establishment of Kennel to Couch.

Therapeutic Value

As a combat veteran navigating the complexities of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Thomas found solace in the simplicity and unadulterated affection of animals. The therapeutic value of rescuing and caring for animals became a beacon of mental peace and equilibrium for him, offering a respite from stress and imbuing his life with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Moral Duty

Driven by a belief in responsibility and ethical duty, Thomas, being in a position of influence and capability, felt a compelling moral obligation to leverage his resources and network for a benevolent cause. He envisaged creating a world marked by tangible, positive changes, where his efforts could alleviate the suffering of vulnerable canines and rectify the misconceptions surrounding them.

Why You Should Join the Cause: 

Being part of Kennel to Couch is not merely about supporting a cause; it’s about participating in a life-changing journey to instill compassion, empathy, and understanding in society. By supporting this initiative, individuals can contribute to dismantling prejudices, fostering a nurturing environment for at-risk canines, and spreading awareness about the plight of sheltered dogs. It provides an opportunity for like-minded people to unite in a shared mission, driving change and offering hope to countless innocent lives.

The powerful interweaving of personal connection, therapeutic fulfillment, and moral commitment in Thomas’s story can resonate with many. It invites individuals to reflect on their capacities to make a difference, encouraging them to embrace the opportunity to bring about meaningful change and to ensure that every canine, irrespective of its breed, experiences love, dignity, and a sense of belonging.