“FEED A PUP!”

THE LVN CLASS 2026 PROJECT, AMARILLO COLLEGE

This is another story about how fortunate we all are to be surrounded by ‘earth angels.’ Most

people call them nurses. Same thing, really. When someone mentions a nurse, we usually

picture them in a clinic, doctor's office, or hospital setting. And that would be right... most of the

time!

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As an observer, and often as a patient in need of a nurse's care, I’ve also wondered what makes

someone want to become a nurse in the first place. Putting up with other people is hard enough

without one of them being sick, in pain, or injured, which doesn’t usually make for a great

bonding situation!

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I can’t imagine how long and difficult many of their workdays are, dealing with those of us who

complain about pain or discomfort. That’s why I'm not a nurse!

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You’ve got to have a really, really big heart of compassion to do what nurses do. And as if caring

for fellow humans isn’t enough, many also show kindness and mercy outside their regular

nursing jobs.

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I’m writing this article because a friend of mine is finishing her LVN nursing training, and, as a

community project, Amarillo College let students in the Class of 2026 choose their own project.

They chose one that offered care and compassion by feeding dogs and puppies to people

experiencing homelessness.

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Now, I was impressed by their choice to help an often-overlooked population in our

communities, for many reasons. But who among us hasn’t felt bad seeing them, both for the

people and for the dogs or animals that are probably the only friend they have left in the world?

Especially on days when it’s really hot or really cold outside. It’s a heartbreaker and tearjerker

situation for most of us, to say the least. This brings into focus just how compassionate these

nursing students are in caring for what you might call the voice of the homeless and the

voiceless.

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Fur Heaven’s Sake & Furbay is a 501(c)(3) animal charity fundraising organization. In addition

to raising money for community charities through raffles, sweepstakes, auctions, and similar

events, we also write stories about wonderful people doing wonderful things for animals.

That's why my friends’ nursing project in 2026 was to bring food, bottled water, treats, and a lot

of love to those who need it most. Most pups survive on ‘only a portion’ of what they need to be

healthy and happy. Understanding the ‘needs’ of these individuals was met with gratitude at

every homeless camp they encountered. The students witnessed firsthand how deeply people

care for their animals despite their current circumstances. The realization that caring for our

community means caring for every life in it! Every living being that brings love and comfort to

those around them is a vital part of our world, especially for those who may have only their loyal

companions.

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Homelessness is often overlooked, as are the pets who share their journey. Many pups live only

on whatever their owners can spare. Our LVN class wants to change that.

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As my story about these ‘earth angels’ comes to a close, I invite you to watch their short video

about a forgotten part of our community and the dogs and puppies who live there, too. They

need love and care, too. Obviously, when these nurses are caring for me or others, as they will

be, you can tell how caring they really are.

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Giving thanks to nurses and earth angels for what they do for us, our pets, and our communities

should be like thanking veterans for their service. As a veteran myself, I can see little

difference...

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Video of love and compassion by the LVN Class of 2026:

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