FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 23, 2012 Dog’s Death Inspires New Non-Profit Buddy Care Foundation Nashville-based non-profit organization will provide financial assistance to dog owners that can’t afford critical medical care for canine companions in need (NASHVILLE, Tennessee) -- Today marks the launch of Buddy Care Foundation, Inc., a non-profit organization that provides financial assistance to dog owners that can’t afford critical medical care for canine companions in need. “The organization is named after our precious Buddy, who passed away in August at the age of 15,” says founder Brian Mayes, a Nashville-based entertainment publicist. “Buddy suffered from a variety of health challenges throughout his life, including a serious heart condition and kidney issues, which led to 5 kidney stone operations. Yet until the last week of his life, Buddy remained an active, loving member of the family whose contribution to our lives was immeasurable.” “We were fortunate in that we were always able to afford and provide the necessary medical care,” explains Mayes. “But we also realize that most American families, especially in today’s economic climate, could not - leaving the family to decide between euthanasia, or simply not providing adequate care.” The goal of Buddy Care Foundation is to help save the lives of loved and valued canine companions, so that no family has to make a decision to end a life due to financial hardship. Through this program, pet owners can apply for a Buddy Care Grant to help cover the costs of life-saving canine medical care. Grant requests will require the recommendation and cooperation of a licensed veterinarian, the complete diagnosis and recommended course of treatment, a positive prognosis, shared financial responsibility and financial statements demonstrating hardship. Buddy Care Foundation will kick off an extensive media campaign this summer, and country music superstar Collin Raye has partnered with the organization for a benefit concert scheduled for Tuesday, August 7th at the Franklin Theatre in Franklin, TN. Tickets are now on sale at FranklinTheatre.com. For more information on Buddy Care Foundation, please visit www.buddycare.org. # # #