Meant to Be

Martha Bird and Ruby

A small, fearful, brown and black mixedbreed dog. Not everyone would have recognized what Martha Bird did, looking at this timid dog at the Animal Humane Society. Due to a medical condition, Martha was searching for more than a pet; she needed a service dog. She found one in Ruby.

Working with trainers at AHS, Martha trained Ruby to provide the assistance she needed. As she did, Ruby's confidence grew. Now, six years later, they are a strong team. Ruby accompanies Martha everywhere and it's clear that this partnership was "meant to be."

Martha felt a strong connection to the Animal Humane Society and, while she admits she's not wealthy, Martha realized she "can still have an impact on an organization she loves." She became a member of the Society's Legacy Circle by simply adding the Society as a beneficiary on one of her retirement accounts.

Even now, Martha continues to build her relationship with AHS. She was the first Legacy Circle member to enroll her pets, Ruby and her two kitties, Whiskers and Hunter, in the Loved for Life program. This program provides peace of mind for pet owners by ensuring that, if they are unable to care for their pets in the future, the Animal Humane Society will find just the right family to continue caring for their beloved animals.

As soon as the Loved for Life program became available to Legacy Circle members, Martha filled out the forms to enroll her pets. She's relieved to know her cats will find a good home if something happens to her, and she's especially grateful that Ruby is enrolled in the program. "Ruby has such special talents," says Martha, "and I know the Animal Humane Society will find someone who can benefit from her services and her love."