KONGS FOR K9S

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Florida's Top Dog Magazine is pleased to be the exclusive media sponsor for a worthy cause that kicks off this holiday season: KONGs for K9s to support our military working dogs deployed

in Iraq and Afghanistan.

THE NEW BARKER found out about the organization, Military Working Dog Team Support Association after speaking with Richard Starks, GM of South Tampa's Puppy Palace. The group was founded to provide support for the handlers and their K9s, both active and retired. Right now, the active teams are in need of some pretty basic, but important items for the dogs. (See the wish list). Even though the dogs are categorized as military equipment, they are highly regarded and well taken care of by their human handlers.

We contacted our source at KONG Company and told them of Richard's idea of taking up a collection for the cause. Richard dubbed it KONG for K9s and KONG was all over it. They enthusiastically told us they would match every KONG toy purchased for the program in the state of Florida. Then we asked each of our retail advertisers who all jumped on board. We contacted the folks who make TUFFY's and they immediately shipped us a box of toys to seed the donation boxes at our participating retailers. WellPet, who was already working with MWDTSA is fulfilling their treat requests.

The cool thing about the program is that the items collected will go directly to the handlers deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan. Richard receives the requests, knows how to package for shipping and delivers the packages to MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa for mailing.

So, how can you help? It's easy - just visit any one of the retailers listed on this page and make a purchase or drop off items from the WISH LIST . Each retailer will have a box or basket in which the items will be collected. Richard will be responsible for letting KONG know how many total toys were collected as he assembles the packages. While you're shopping for your dog, buy one item that will make a difference in the life of a military working dog. And your donation is tax deductible.

Visit www.MWDTSA.org for more information on the support organization talking directly to the men and women troops and their K9s. Another cool blog is www.K9pride.com where you can read what's happening on a day to day basis.

Participating KONGS FOR K9s Locations

3 Dogs & A Chick

128 Miracle Strip Pkwy., Ft. Walton Beach

Barron's House of Treasures

2900 W. Sample Rd., Pompano Beach

Downtown Dogs

1631 Snow Circle, Hyde Park Village, Tampa

Fluffy Puppies

1447 S. Ft. Harrison, Clearwater

Fluffy Puppies

10106 Montague Street, Tampa

Gone to the Dogs