Marvin's story included in new book "Angel Dogs with a Mission"

"Angel Dogs with a Mission: Divine Messengers in Service to All Life" by Minnesota authors, Allen and Linda Anderson

From news release:

Marvin's story, along with 19 others, is a collection of true stories about dogs who found their purpose in life and gave bucket-loads without expecting a return. It will be released October 1, 2008 by New World Library.

As with the hugely popular Marley & Me, millions of dog lovers will want to be inspired and entertained by the dramatic human-and-dog journeys in this new book. The amazing stories provide laughter, proof that miracles are possible, and tears - the good kind.

* Keno, the yellow Lab took only 22 minutes to find a lift operator, buried in an avalanche (people can't survive more than 30 minutes) and was named Search and Rescue Dog of the Year in 2002 by Purina.
* Abdul, the first service dog, trained by Bonnie Bergin and Kerrill Knaus-Hardy in the mid-70s, paved the way for people with disabilities to gain independence.
* Marvin, a lame, Rhode Island SPCA Labrador retriever turned family pet, paints with his tail, has exhibits of his artwork, visits schools and nursing homes, and raises money to enable elderly and sick people to keep their pets.
* Anna, a German shepherd at Ground Zero after September 11, damaged her lungs searching through the wreckage and inspired Sarah Atlas to start an assistance program for volunteer search and rescue dog handlers.
* Kobi, a yellow Lab and beloved family pet with an exceptional sense of smell and intelligence, became one of the most famous cancer-sniffing dogs in the world and contributed to breakthrough research from combating this deadly disease.
* Tuffy, a King Charles Cavalier served as grief counselor with Dr. Karla Rose during the horrible days following the Virginia Tech shootings
* Skidboot, the world famous Texas blue heeler of cowboy and entertainer David Hartwig, was a guest on Jay Leno, Oprah, and David Letterman shows but started life as an abandoned puppy who grew up to become an inspiration for millions.
This book is a tribute to the fact that many of our most effective doctors, nurses, therapists, police officers, emotional counselors, rescue workers, and spiritual teachers have four legs instead of two."-- Amelia Kinkade, author of Straight from the Horse's Mouth: How to Talk to Animals and Get Answers and The Language of Miracles

New MarvArt Paintings Available

"Baltimore Oriole"

Marvin has created four new original watercolors:

1. "Gladiolas"




2. "Bird of Paradise"




3. Baltimore Oriole"




4. "On Point" SOLD

All of his available original and print artwork can be seen here...

Greater Providence Board of Realtors with Marvin

Marvin tops $100,000 mark with $6,500 check from Prov Realtors

The Greater Providence Board of Realtors has once again opened not only their hearts but also thier wallets with a very generous donation. Last year they wrote a check for a $7,000 donation and this year they donated $6,500.Their bighearted contribution has put Marvin's fundraising efforts over the $100,000 mark. Due to the support of the GPBR and many others, the Marvin Fund has helped over 1000 pets in need of medical assistance. Many of these pets are owned by elderly and disabled citizens who without the aid of the Marvin Fund may have lost their best friends. The RISPCA and Marvin want to thank all of you for your kindness in helping those who can not help themselves.

See the check from last year http://www.marvinfund.org/realtor_check3833.jpg

Sponsors helping Marvin with fundraising goal

Marvin's half way there to meet his goal of raising $2,500 for the Dog Walk.

Mercedes the boxer

Read about our new Marvin's Friend Mercedes the Boxer at Marv's website at http://www.marvinfund.org/friends.html

Marvin has surgery

Marvin had surgery on his rear hind leg on Wednesday, September 3 to remove a tumor. He is up and around, has a positive attitude, and is expected to recover quite nicely. The surgery was performed by his owner, Dr. Finocchio.