Humane Association’s Reggie’s Fund Gives Pets A Second Chance

Press release from Delaware Humane Association:

Oct. 2, 2020

Delaware Humane Association (DHA), a statewide animal welfare organization with adoption centers in Wilmington and Rehoboth Beach, believes in the power of second chances, and they’re not alone. Just ask Major Biden, the lucky German Shepard who was adopted by Joe and Jill Biden in late 2018 from DHA.

Major was one of six puppies that was brought to DHA after being exposed to something toxic in their home. The puppies were surrendered to DHA due to financial constraints, and by working with a local veterinary emergency center, DHA was able to provide Major and his siblings with lifesaving medical care. It wasn’t long until the pups were ready for adoption, and fortunately for Major, known dog lovers Joe and Jill Biden discovered him through DHA’s social media. The rest is history, and quite possibly still in the making, as Major could soon take up residence in the White House as “First Dog.”

“To say Major had a second chance would be quite the understatement,” says Patrick Carroll, Executive Director of Delaware Humane Association. Carroll adds, “Every animal deserves a safe and loving home regardless of circumstances, but unfortunately not every animal out there is able to have a happy ending like Major.” Fortunately, DHA just may have a solution to ensure more deserving animals—and their owners— get that second chance.

Longtime DHA supporters—and Biden friends—Tatiana and Gerret Copeland recognize the power and grace of a second chance. That’s why they created Reggie’s Fund: a generous endowment that will help to offset the cost of veterinary medical services for pet owners who otherwise cannot afford them. It helps people whose pets have special medical needs and cannot afford the cost of care. Specifically, the fund aims to prevent owners having to surrender or euthanatize their pets due to high medical costs. Especially now with the financial strain that Covid-19 is having on so many, Reggie’s Fund is timelier than ever.

Reggie’s Fund was originally created by the Copelands in memory of their beloved DHA adoptee dog, Reggie. “Reggie was such a loving, warm, and mischievous dog. We were fortunate in finding him at Delaware Humane Association,” says Tatiana Copeland. Copeland adds, “He enriched our lives for many years, and my husband and I wanted to create a fund in his memory to help dogs get the best medical care.”

While Reggie’s Fund is primarily for dogs, Reggie does say, “Although the Fund is targeted towards dogs, cats are also eligible!” DHA staff are not available to respond or make decisions 24 hours a day for emergencies, but those interested in learning more about Reggie’s Fund can contact DHA, or be referred to DHA through their veterinarian.

While Major’s future home won’t be decided until November, one thing’s for certain: every animal out there deserves a loving home, and to stay in that home, regardless of financial circumstance. Reggie’s Fund aims to help keep animals in their homes and remain with their owners.

DHA embodies the spirit “making friends for life” by connecting animals in need with loving members of the Delaware community. It’s because of DHA’s supporters that they are able to continue to support homeless or injured animals, like Major once was, and find loving families to care for them. To contribute to DHA and support other animals in need, please visit www.delawarehumane.org/donate/. To learn more about Reggie’s Fund, please contact Jeanette Hayes at jhayes@delawarehumane.org or call 302-571-8171, extension 306.

This press release was produced by Delaware Humane Association. The views expressed here are the author's own.