Charlie Mike - Save a Dog. Save a Veteran.

Charlie Mike is another returning non-profit group to Spring Fling, and we are excited to have them again this year!

Charlie Mike was created by modern combat veterans who know the realities of war and the realities of returning to civilian life. Their mission is to save the lives of those still carrying the unseen wounds of combat, one veteran at a time. Their vision is to help Soldiers, Marines, Airmen, and Sailors help one another "Continue the Mission of Life," in whatever form that may be. They believe that by standing together at home, just as they stood together during war time, they will help each other succeed in getting back to life.

"Charlie Mike programs and services were created with a specific purpose in mind: to create peace, healing, and a sense of stability. These programs are tailored specifically to the needs and interests of military veterans, and to achieve these desired outcomes. Our Canine Battle Buddy Program is at the core of this approach."

Battle Buddies come from animal shelters and rescues across the country. There are so many dogs in need and Charlie Mike can save two lives, the life of a dog and a veteran, by choosing dogs in need. There are a number of characteristics that are evaluated in a potential Battle Buddy, like intelligence, motivation, temperament, food drive, motivation, and disposition.

Charlie Mike provides care like a traditional rescue would: vet visits, treatment for any outstanding health concerns, and then training. Each potential Battle Buddy goes through at least two to four months of training to become the best companions they can be. They are constantly evaluated on different tasks and behaviors and eventually "graduate". This gives them the best chance of success with their veteran partner. There is no cost for veterans to adopt a dog from Charlie Mike!

In addition to their Battle Buddies program working with rescue dogs, they also have an equine program.

You can learn more about Charlie Mike and their programs by stopping by their booth at Spring Fling and by visiting their website! You can also follow their social media accounts, Facebook and Instagram, to keep up with their activities and the dogs they are working with!

Underhound Railroad: Saving Lives, One Shelter Dog at a Time

We are happy to welcome back a rescue that has been at Spring Fling before: Underhound Railroad.

Underhound Railroad initially started in 2009 in Connecticut. Their goal was to save death-row dogs in the local shelters, and they have now grown to include rescue communities in Maine, Connecticut, Rhode Island, North Carolina, South Carolina and Utah. They focus on rural areas, where the need is greatest, and the dogs are in most danger.

“Underhound Railroad is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) volunteer-based animal welfare organization dedicated to rescuing homeless dogs from overcrowded shelters. By working with a network of volunteer advocates, foster caregivers, local veterinarians, trainers and shelters, Underhound is able to rescue hundreds of animals every year. We provide these animals with care and temporary homes until we can place them into their permanent homes. We believe that no animal should be mistreated and are working towards the day when no companion animal is euthanized for lack of a home.”

The vision of Underhound Railroad:

Underhound Railroad tirelessly envisions the day where every adoptable dog has a loving, devoted, and responsible home. A home where they will not suffer from abuse, neglect, or ignorance.

Read more about this vision, more about Underhound Railroad, and their adoptable dogs on their website. Follow them on their social media channels too: Facebook and Instagram.

Currently available from Underhound Railroad:

Kind 2 Kritters is new to Spring Fling!

Kind 2 Kritters is a new-to-Spring-Fling rescue group, and we are excited to welcome them this year! They are looking forward to hopefully finding some homes for their dogs and cats at the event and sharing their mission.

"We are a 501(c)(3) Non-profit organization in North Carolina that provides supplies for community animals in need. Our Mission is to Provide food, spay & neuter, housing and fencing for animals that are in need. Raising donations through a variety of fundraisers, educating and bringing awareness to pet owners. Our goal is to strive for the welfare and best life for all animals in any possible way to avoid them from being tired up, without food & water and out of shelters. We want to care Fur the community."

This foster-based group relies on volunteers to save animals. This means that without people opening their homes to animals in need, they can't save as many! Donations are also a great way to support them, whether that's making a cash donation or supplies.

One of their available dogs is Macey, pictured here. This is what her people have to say about her: "When you have a dog that has lost everything, day by day, you gently put the pieces back in place, but instead of glue, you use love, affection & respect. It may take a week or a year, but in the end, you get a loving, caring, dog. Nothing is beyond the power of God, and I believe God is preparing Macey for her forever family. She always wants to be the center of your world. She is always on the hunt for cuddles and snuggles and will be loyal – maybe too loyal cause she always wants to be by your side. She would love to spend her nights snuggled up with just her people while getting belly rubs and giving kisses. A true best friend, Macey is waiting to see if you are her perfect match. Macey is available to foster or adopt."

You can find out more about Kind 2 Kritters and keep up with all their activities and learn about more available animals, Like Koda below, on their Facebook page.