Now that the holiday season and winter weather is in high gear, I figure it’s the perfect time to bring you a topic that’s equally warm and fuzzy.



There are two people in this region that I want to tell you about who are the cat’s meow:

Julie and Jim Dugan.



I’ve had the distinct pleasure of meeting both of these South Sound all-stars. They’re both kind and genuine people, and the nonprofit work that they do never ceases to amaze and inspire me.



In 2003, they officially formed the Dugan Foundation as a 501(C)3 with the goal of ending euthanasia as a form of population control for pets, working steadfastly toward making Pierce County a no-kill environment.



I love dogs. The only reason that I don’t have one of my own is because I’m so busy, and that just wouldn’t be fair to these pets that deserve all of the love in the world.



However, there are several dogs in my life right now that are so important to me, including Benson, Lola, Miles, Yarra, Chance, Emma, Udo … and the list goes on and on.



My life has been so wonderful because these pets bring me nothing but happiness, and I really can’t fathom the thought of how empty our lives would be if any of these pets had ever faced euthanasia.



Lucky for me, you, and all of the pets in Pierce County that desperately need your affection, supporting the cause of creating a no-kill environment just got easier than ever before. Woof!



An ideal holiday gift this season is a Dugan Foundation calendar. They’re just $14.95, and $11 of this purchase goes back to the very worthy cause of saving loyal pets. These calendars contain images that will make your heart melt, and they’re available at various locations throughout the county, including Next to Nature, 1624 Tacoma Ave. S.; Posh Paw in Gig Harbor, 4793 Point Fosdick DR NW or Dupont, 1545 Wilmington Dr.; or the Jones Animal Hospital, 3322 S Union Ave in Tacoma.



Beyond the holidays, I’d like to encourage you to check out and follow the Dugan Foundation through their Web site, www. duganfoundation.org. This non-profit has such progressive initiatives (and some exciting announcements for the future), all thanks to the work of the Dugans, the foundation’s board of directors, a whole host of volunteers and sponsors.



Just as the Dugans, their pets and Benson, Lola, Miles, Yarra, Chance, Emma and Udo will tell you: Happy, happy howlidays!



[Dugan Foundation, 707 N. Sheridan Ave., Tacoma, 253.572.7700]



Tell me where you like to party here.