TOWN OF OCONOMOWOC — Staying in the hospital can be a scary time for children, but for some, they are getting a little comfort and a feeling of protection from donated K9 Gabo plush dogs.
Animal World Adventures, N58W39957 Highway 16, had been selling the plush version of Oconomowoc Police Department’s K9 unit, Gabo, when it was brought to their attention that some people wanted to contribute the cost of a plush dog ($20) but didn’t want the actual stuffed animal. The person would donate the $20 and ask that Animal World Adventures find another home for the plush K9 Gabo. So, the owners at Animal World Adventures discussed what they should do with those dogs, such as give them to kids who walked through the pet store’s doors. But, then C.J. Schroeder came up with the idea of giving them to children receiving treatment at ProHealth Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital.
So far, they have brought about 40 to 45 plush dogs to the hospital in three trips and plan to make another trip soon with more.
“We want to support Gabo and help put a smile on a child’s face,” Adams said.
Taking the plush Gabo dogs to the hospital where Adams’ mom was a nurse for many years is also very meaningful to the small business owner.
There is a K9 Fund Jar on the counter at Animal World Adventures and patrons can put whatever amount they want in the jar. When they reach $20, they will use it to purchase a plush Gabo.
Sometimes people choose to sponsor more than one dog to be taken to the children, such as one woman is sponsoring five. Schroeder likes the idea of giving the plush K9 Gabo to children.
“That can feel that comfort and protection as they go through something,” she said.
It’s being able to help area nonprofits that make owning a small business so meaningful for Adams. She said they also support the Watertown Humane Society, Wildlife In Need Center, Fluffy Dog Rescue and others throughout the year — something big, online businesses are not able to do.
“We love helping out the community,” Adams said.
Recently, a girl came to the shop holding a K9 Gabo plush animal. Her mom said she got it when she was at the hospital while staying there.
“To see it full circle was really nice,” Schroeder said.
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