Business Owners Hold Fundraiser for Recovering Hingham Police K9

Two Hingham businesses have partnered for a two-day fundraiser for who tore his ACL and recently underwent costly surgery.

Stone Hearth Pizza Co. and Maggie’s Dog House will donate all proceeds from"A Slice and a Scooby Snack," a slice of pizza and a handmade dog biscuit for $7, to the K9 fund.  The promotion is available 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., open to close, on Tuesday, June 18, and Wednesday, June 19 at the new Stone Hearth Pizza Co. at Hingham Shipyard.

Jonathan Schwarz, who co-owns six Stone Hearth locations with Christopher Robbins, said he and many members of his team are dog owners. Courtney Palek, of Old Colony Montessori School, put Schwarz in touch with Kim Sylvester from Maggie's Dog House.

Though Stone Hearth Pizza Co. new to Hingham, having opened in May, the owners feel connected to the town.

"We feel strongly about weaving ourselves into the community," said Schwarz.

Officer Jim Foss, the 7-year-old German Shepherd's partner, said Axel is recovering well from the ACL surgery. Axel, who has worked in Hingham for five and a half years, will slowly return to the job in about five weeks. 

Over the past week, Foss said he's seen a marked improvement in Axel's condition. He's not allowed to exercise until his X-ray in five weeks, though the energetic dog is feeling better.
"He wants to run," said Foss. "He wants to play."

Axel tore his ACL during training. After a few weeks of limping, Foss brought him in to the vet and it was determined he needed surgery. The surgery was done at VCA Animal Hospital in Weymouth.

The $3,500 procedure needed to be paid up front, so Foss had to pay up front. "Either way, he had to have the surgery," said Foss.

As word spread of the surgery, individuals and businesses started fundraisers or made donations. The cost of Hingham Police K9 program, like Axel's food and regular vet bills, are supported by donations. Any donations beyond the surgery will do to the K9 fund.

"I've counted on donations and support from the town the past five years and I haven't been let down," said Foss, adding the support so far has been humbling.