Today we’d like to introduce you to Debbie Pearl, the founder of the Dream Fetchers Foundation.
Hi Debbie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Since 2005 when I started my nonprofit, Dream Fetchers. I have struggled financially to give back, but that never stopped me, I knew the power of animals and how they could change lives.
Dogs teach us what it means to give back. To be generous without bounds. To love others unconditionally. Whether it’s motivating us to venture outside, embracing us with warm kisses, or supporting those of us with different abilities – our amazing pups are always giving and motivating us to do the same.
Through our many programs using rescue dogs, we aim to change the world. We have many programs from outreach to rescue. My passion has always been the children and I have visited Childrens hospitals around the country with what I call my Dream Team.
Five years ago, I started a division called Project Rescue where we currently are rescuing over 600 dogs off the streets every year, this team is spearheaded by the amazing Faith Easdale who I consider true superheroes.
My team selflessly sacrifices their time sometimes spending nights sleeping in their cars to save the discarded ones. We have become their voice in our efforts to stop this abuse from happening. It takes a village but we will continue the fight for as long as it takes.
Currently, we are planning a cross country tour with my many handicapable dogs called The Unstoppable Tour where we will be inspiring, spreading hope, teaching kindness and compassion and hopefully changing attitudes about physical differences.
Our final goal is to get our sanctuary built. This will be a place where families can come and be part of a magical healing experience.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Since starting my nonprofit in 2005, it has been a rough road. Having funded initially everything myself in the beginning, it was my goal to make a difference no matter the struggle.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m an Animal Trainer, Creator and Producer. My love of all animals started as a young girl and has continued throughout my life.
In 1995, I founded Paws for Effect, a full-service animal company which brings the magic of animals from the set to the big screen in commercials and movies. I’ve compiled an impressive list of credits with such celebrities as Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, Julie Andrews, Anne Hathaway, Tom Hanks, John Travolta, to name just a few.
With the release of Disney’s Iron Will in 1994, I appeared as a special guest with my Husky Beau (who starred in the movie) at a fundraiser hosted at St. Jude Children’s Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. It was here that I had an epiphany. Seeing the smiles and joy in the children as they interacted with Beau and the enchantment and capacity of their impact was simply life-changing. I knew that bringing movie star dogs to visit and work with sick and underprivileged children was my calling, and in 2005 Dream Fetchers was born.
I’m constantly striving to make a difference not in just the film world but in the world of those who need it the most. I’m committed to making a difference in the lives of children of all ages and abilities one paw at a time.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was always an animal lover and like many little girls, I wanted to be a veterinarian so I could help animals. I’ve always been super outgoing and passionate about what touched my heart.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.dreamfetchers.org
- Instagram: @dream_fetchers and @dreamfetchers_project_rescue
