A Secure Future

Perpetual Pet Care Program provides peace of mind to yet another owner

Like many pet owners and lovers, Gene Dickinson was concerned for years about the fate of his dog if he became unable to provide proper care. But his concerns disappeared when he discovered K-State’s Perpetual Pet Care Program.

Gene and his four-year-old Siberian husky, Tiger, have been constant companions since Gene's wife passed away last year. His closest living relatives are cousins, but he was not sure they would be receptive to adopting his pet.

"I worried about what would happen to Tiger once I'm gone," said Gene, who prospered in the film producing and communications fields before retiring in El Dorado, Kansas in 1998. "I wanted to make sure that he's not going to end up on the streets or, worse yet, be put to sleep. I want him to be adopted into a good home so he will be well cared for and happy."

Gene, who is a 1956 K-State graduate of the College of Arts and Sciences, recently committed $25,000 to the Perpetual Pet Care Program within the K-State College of Veterinary Medicine to provide Tiger a secure future. The program makes certain that each companion animal who is enrolled in the program will receive proper housing, health services and companionship after the owner is no longer able to provide care. In accordance with the owner’s wishes, the pet then will be adopted to a loving, suitable home.

Gene decided to contact the College of Veterinary Medicine after speaking with his local veterinarians, Dr. Glenn Hoskinson (DVM '57) and Dr. Michael Cocke (DVM '80) of Augusta Animal Clinic in Augusta, Kansas. They referred the pet owner to K-State for a solution to his problem.

"The close relationship between Gene and Tiger is very evident," Dr. Hoskinson said. "It's obvious that he loves his dog and cares well for him."
Tiger, who spends most days fulfilling his security duties and lounging around the house, is described by his owner as very intelligent, loyal and protective. He is a vocal pet who "speaks" to his owner. The type and tone of the dog’s verbal expressions change significantly depending upon the circumstances.

Gene has gained peace of mind by knowing that his love will continue to be felt even if something should happen to him.

For more information on the Perpetual Pet Care Program