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“ I thought of the prayer I had said when I asked God to help me get two hound pups. I knew He had surely helped, for He had given me the heart, courage, and determination.”

— Wilson Rawls, Where the Red Fern Grows

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."

Scholarships are awarded on a case-by-case basis and are given in the form of a unique code to be used during the formal checkout process and vary in amounts based on need.
An approved application and a scheduled interview is required .
Scholarships are limited by availability; we work directly with submission applicants/families to select puppies that are the best fit for them.
- Approved Applicants will be required to place a deposit on their preferred litter, however, will remain on a separate unique unpublished waitlist. We help our SCHOLARSHIP FAMILIES find the perfect fit for them!
We ask Applicants to allow us to share their submissions and photographs online without the use of last names. First names can be changed too!

“Through the toughest challenges, one dream has kept me going: welcoming my companion, Angel, into my life. Thanks to Red Fern, this isn’t just a wish—it’s within reach. Angel isn’t just a puppy; she’s the promise of brighter days, my adventure buddy, and my reason to keep pushing forward. Together, we’ll share the joy of each sunrise on the lake and the quiet peace of fireside nights. Here’s to new beginnings with my best friend by my side.”

— U.S. Army veteran

Read Essay Submissions on our Blog

Stokeshire Designer Doodles' Guarantee
Stokeshire Designer Doodles is dedicated to the health and well-being of our dogs, which is supported by our health guarantee. However, beyond this health guarantee, we would like to clarify that no other assurances or guarantees are provided.

Our selection process determines which dogs qualify for the Red Fern Scholarship program and the level of support they will receive. We work closely with applicants to match them with a dog that aligns with their specific needs. Please note that due to the nature of the scholarship program, there are a few considerations:

Preferences: While we strive to accommodate your preferences for coat color, coat type, and gender, we cannot guarantee that these preferences will be met. Due to the scholarship, it is possible that we may not have a perfect match for your preferences in a given litter.
Waitlist: Applicants receiving the Red Fern Scholarship may be placed lower on the waitlist for a particular litter, which could result in a longer wait for the puppy you desire.

The number and scope of scholarships offered may vary based on our assessment. While our goal is to facilitate an appropriate match between applicants and their future puppy, individual outcomes may differ based on personal circumstances.

We carefully select our dogs for placement, but we do not guarantee their suitability for specific roles such as service or therapy dogs. The training, temperament, and abilities of our dogs depend on numerous factors beyond our control.

We assist in the dog selection process, but we do not guarantee the dog’s aptitude for particular roles or needs. The responsibility for training, working with, and managing the dog lies solely with the applicant and the professionals they choose to engage.

ESSAY SUBMISSION

RED FERN MISSION ESSAY

Name

First Name

Last Name

Phone

(###)

###

####

Currency

Amount Requested

Finances

As part of the scholarship application process, we kindly request that you provide some information regarding your financial situation and why you require financial assistance to pursue a Stokeshire Puppy. Understanding the financial circumstances of applicants is crucial for us to allocate our scholarship resources effectively and ensure that they reach those who need them most. Your candid disclosure will help us make informed decisions and support deserving candidates adequately. Please consider including the following details in your response: An overview of your current financial situation, including any sources of income and expenses. Any significant financial challenges or obstacles you face in pursuing a puppy. How receiving this Red Fern scholarship would be a blessing to you. Any additional information or circumstances you believe are pertinent to understanding your financial need. Rest assured that all information provided will be treated with the utmost confidentiality and used solely for the purpose of assessing scholarship applications.

Additional Info:

TELL US ABOUT YOUR DREAM PUP

Disclaimer

The Red Fern Scholarship Program at Stokeshire Designer Doodles does not cover certain fees and services, including the deposit, pick of the litter, training, or transportation costs. Recipients are responsible for these expenses in addition to any other fees not explicitly covered by the scholarship. Red Fern Scholarship Agreement As part of the Stokeshire Designer Doodles Red Fern Scholarship Program, the following terms and conditions apply: Preferences While Stokeshire Designer Doodles will make every effort to accommodate your preferences regarding coat color, coat type, and gender, no guarantees are made in regard to these preferences. Due to the nature of the scholarship program, it is possible that a match for your desired preferences may not be available in a given litter. Stokeshire Designer Doodles cannot guarantee the availability of a puppy that meets your specific criteria. Waitlist Placement Applicants receiving the Red Fern Scholarship may be placed lower on the waitlist for a particular litter. As a result, you may experience a longer wait than non-scholarship applicants for your selected puppy. The timing and availability of a puppy from your preferred litter may vary depending on the waitlist and the specific dogs available at the time. Selection and Availability of Puppies The selection of puppies for the Red Fern Scholarship is at the sole discretion of Stokeshire Designer Doodles. The quantity and scope of scholarships available will be determined based on the assessment of applicants and the needs of the program. Stokeshire Designer Doodles makes no warranty or guarantee regarding the specific role or function the puppy will serve, including but not limited to service, therapy, or emotional support purposes. Training and Suitability for Specific Roles While Stokeshire Designer Doodles will assist in the selection of a puppy, we do not guarantee its suitability for service or therapy roles. The training, behavior, and abilities of the puppy depend on numerous factors outside of our control, including the applicant’s training and handling methods. The responsibility for the dog’s training, development, and suitability for any specific role rests solely with the applicant and the professionals they choose to engage. Health Guarantee Stokeshire Designer Doodles offers a health guarantee for each puppy placed through our program, ensuring that all puppies are free from genetic conditions and are provided with veterinary care prior to placement. However, no other guarantees are provided in terms of the puppy's behavior, temperament, or suitability for any specific roles. Reimbursement or Refund Policy The scholarship cannot be exchanged for cash or used toward past purchases.

Essay

PEASE COPY AND PASTE YOUR FINAL ESSAY HERE

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.

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