Mayor Honors Carlsbad Family For Giving Rescue Pup A Home

CARLSBAD, CA — A Carlsbad family was recognized for welcoming a rescue dog into their home.

Mayor Keith Blackburn issued a mayoral commendation Wednesday to Dennis and Sara Donnelly and their children, Callan and Lilly, for saving Abe, a 10-week-old Bichon Frise mix, according to the Carlsbad Educational Foundation.

Blackburn's commendation recognized the Donnelly family's commitment and love for Abe, thanking them on behalf of the city.

"This act of kindness is an example of how everyone should respect and love all animals," the commendation noted.

Abe entered the Donnelly family's life in May, when the family agreed to foster the pup as part of the Carlsbad Educational Foundation's Gala to Benefit Students. The foundation partnered with SPOT (Saving Pets One at a Time) Animal Rescue to find a permanent home for Abe and to raise funds during the May 18 gala's live auction to support both nonprofits.

"We really love the foster family that cared for Abe, and then, when it happened to be the Donnelly's that got him, we couldn't ask for a better home," said Faye Schultz, president of SPOT Animal Rescue.

The Gala to Benefit Students raised $300,000 to fund programs in music, STEAM and innovation. A portion of the proceeds from the Donnelly family's winning bid will be donated to SPOT Animal Rescue.