Did you know that man's best friend can help End Polio, too? For decades, Rotary has united people around the world in a bold effort to eradicate polio. Today, that mission has an unexpected – and delightful – set of supporters: our animals. Through the PolioPlus Society – Kennel Klub, pets of all kinds are helping push the world closer to a polio-free future.
The Kennel Klub is an extension of the PolioPlus Society created especially for our four-legged (and sometimes fluffy or furry) companions. The idea was inspired by Mollie, the dog of PDG 5320 Greg Owen and his wife Valerie, in Southern California. Mollie became a familiar face on Rotary Zoom calls, proudly sporting her End Polio Now bandana. She also became a PolioPlus Society member by "giving up" $10 worth of treats each month – a small sacrifice with a big impact.
Mollie's charm quickly won over Rotarians across the Big West Zones, and she soon became an unofficial mascot for End Polio Now. Before long, she was inviting her fellow animal friends to join her cause, and the PolioPlus Society – Kennel Klub was born. Today, membership in the Kennel Klub is open to anyone, anywhere in the world. All kinds of animals are welcome. While dogs and cats make up many of the members, the roster also includes alpacas and chinchilla, proof that the fight to end polio truly knows no species. The Klub now counts about 300 members spanning the United States, Canada, Sweden, and Finland.
The impact has been remarkable. The Kennel Klub has raised $46,000 for PolioPlus. With the generous 2:1 match from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, that translates into a total of $138,000 supporting global polio eradication efforts. These funds contribute directly to vaccinations, surveillance, and rapid-response initiatives in the final places where polio remains.
Joining the Kennel Klub is simple and meaningful. Members receive a free End Polio Now bandana for their animal and a Kennel Klub membership pin. Donations can also be made in honour of a beloved pet that has passed or given as a gift to a friend's animal.
Former RI President Gordon McInally also is a fan of the Kennel Klub
To start a Kennel Klub in your district or club, please visit: www.rotaryppskennelklub.org.