We firmly believe in the profound companionship and unwavering love that dogs offer. Inspired by 'Where the Red Fern Grows,' we strive to make the joy of having a loyal friend accessible to everyone. Our mission, while inspired by the values of hard work and determination, encourages literacy and empowers individuals to surpass their aspirations. Dogs have an incredible ability to heal and uplift, making the future brighter alongside them. Our dedication is to make this possibility a reality for as many people as possible.

Furthermore, our passion lies in nurturing a love for nature and outdoor adventures that we believe can help foster healing and personal growth. Having previously directed a Children's Museum and established a Wisconsin Summer Camp centered on outdoor exploration, our commitment to these values remains unwavering. Stokeshire Designer Doodles is excited to announce our Red Fern Scholarship initiative, offering deserving individuals the chance to apply for a scholarship towards the pup of their dreams.

"We are driven by an unwavering commitment to our cause: extending a helping hand to every child, Veteran, or family by providing scholarships to assist in bringing home their beloved companion and lifelong friend."

Submission Requirements:

• Read, listen, or watch WHERE THE RED FERN GROWS - extra credit points for reading and using quotes/themes from the book.

• Write a 500-1000 Word Essay on one of the following topics (parents can help):

• Feel free to change specifics, like your name or any other details that are too personal.

  
  
  

  • Tell us how you worked hard to achieve something. What made it difficult? How did you overcome those difficulties? How did the experience change you? What did you learn? How will taking care of a dog be similar?

  • Tell us about a time you felt lonely, afraid, or bullied or you befriended someone who was. What happened? How did you respond? How has the experience changed you? Share with us how a dog can help you overcome the negative experiences of your past and improve your future!

  • Tell us about your faith or your drive. What motivates you? How are you encouraged? How do you help and serve others?

  • Tell us about how a puppy will improve your life! What will you do with your puppy/dog? What will he/she teach you? How will it change you as a person for the better?

  • "How does WHERE THE RED FERN GROWS connect with your experiences as a Veteran? Share a 500-1000 word essay about your post-service challenges, how you conquered them, and how that journey mirrors the resilience in the book. Also, explore how caring for a dog, as depicted in the story, could aid in your healing process."

Scholarship Coverage and Additional Costs to Budget For

The Red Fern Scholarship Program is designed to help make bringing home a companion more accessible, but it’s important to note that certain fees and services are not covered by the scholarship. Applicants should plan to budget for the following out-of-pocket expenses:

• Deposit: A deposit is required to secure your puppy.

• Transportation Costs: This includes flights, delivery services, or any travel expenses incurred while picking up your puppy.

• Training Costs: While we assist in matching you with a puppy, the cost of training (e.g., obedience, therapy training, or advanced programs) is the sole responsibility of the applicant.

• Pick of the Litter Fee: If you would like priority selection for a litter, any associated costs are not included in the scholarship.

• Other Costs Not Explicitly Covered: Additional items or services not mentioned as part of the scholarship program may also require budgeting.

We recommend applicants factor these expenses into their overall budget to ensure a smooth and successful transition for their new companion. If you have questions or need guidance, our team is happy to help you plan ahead!

Red Fern Scholarship Program – Important Clarification

At Stokeshire Designer Doodles, we believe that every dog deserves a loving home, and every person should have the opportunity to experience the joy and companionship that a dog brings. The Red Fern Scholarship was created to make this dream more accessible for families, veterans, children, and individuals facing financial or personal challenges.

However, to serve our families and our dogs well, we want to make a few important clarifications about the intent and structure of the Red Fern Scholarship.

🐾 What the Red Fern Scholarship Is

The Red Fern Scholarship is reserved only for puppies that remain unchosen after official Selection Day. These are puppies who have not been reserved or matched with a family during the standard waitlist and selection process.

Scholarship recipients are matched with these remaining puppies, often hidden gems, who are just waiting for the right person to call them their own. This means scholarships are not available for puppies in active litters currently undergoing the normal reservation process, nor do they offer priority or pick-of-the-litter privileges.

🚫 What the Scholarship Is Not

To protect the integrity of our program and the sustainability of our breeding practices, it is essential to understand:

• The scholarship is not a waitlist bypass.
  Applicants are not placed on the main waitlist or offered the ability to choose a puppy from future litters.

• The scholarship is not a way to get a specific puppy for free.
  While we consider preferences and needs, scholarships are based on availability after families on the regular waitlist have made their selections.

• The scholarship does not include pick-of-the-litter or timing-based requests.
  Due to the unpredictable nature of availability, scholarship recipients must be flexible in terms of timing, coat color, size, gender, and litter origin.

🌿 Why This Matters

Our commitment is to ethical breeding and personalized puppy placement. Every Stokeshire puppy receives intensive love, care, and socialization — our scholarship program honors that by offering select remaining puppies a meaningful second opportunity to be matched with a deserving individual or family.

This clarification ensures that the program continues to serve those who truly need it while preserving the standards and values that define our work.

ESSAY SUBMISSION

How You Can Help

If you're looking for a meaningful way to give back, your donation to the Red Fern Scholarship can make a life-changing impact for a family, Veteran, child, clinician, or nonprofit in need. Scholarships awarded through the program not only support individuals seeking the companionship of a loving dog but also extend to clinicians and nonprofit organizations dedicated to providing emotional and therapeutic support through animal companionship. We understand that the act of giving is deeply personal, so we offer the flexibility for you to choose how your gift is shared. If you prefer, your contribution can remain completely anonymous, providing quiet support without public recognition. Alternatively, we can share your donation directly with the recipient, allowing them to know and appreciate the kindness of someone who believes in the transformative bond between a person and their dog. Your generosity can bring love, companionship, and hope to someone’s life—whether celebrated openly or cherished in the quiet comfort of knowing you made a difference.