We at Petland Florida recently gave the family of a Stoneman Douglas High School shooting survivor the gift of unconditional love and friendship with a cuddly Bernadoodle named Douglas.

The family, who came to Petland at our Pembroke Pines location in search of a new pet, had initially asked for a discount on a puppy they wanted. However, after hearing their story, Luis Marquez, the store owner, felt inspired to gift the family with a lifelong furry friend free of charge and with all of our benefits.

Over the past year, the family has gone through several hardships. Their son, Anthony is a survivor of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas School shooting that occurred last year in Parkland, FL on Valentine’s Day. This tragic event took the lives of 17 people, including 3 of Anthony’s friends. Anthony’s father was one of the first 5 police officers to enter the school during the shooting.

When the mother was informed of the puppy donation, she burst into tears. The family is entirely grateful for the donation and the blessings they feel it gives them. Our Petland puppy donations are always given in an effort to enhance the lives of those who are going through tough times. We know puppies can provide a bright light at the end of a dark tunnel, and help lift spirits when it’s least expected.

We are truly honored to have helped out Anthony’s family in the best way we know how. With their new Petland puppy, the family will always have a lifelong furry friend that will show them support, kindness, and most importantly, love, no matter the reason.