Laura July's Shinning Star

🌟 Shining Star of the Pack: Laura

Every month, Karl’s Canine Krew celebrates one of the incredible humans who make our mission possible. This month, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Laura, a dedicated foster and volunteer whose compassion, humility, and love for dogs radiate through everything she does.

A Year of Impact

Laura has been part of the KCK family for just about a year, but her presence feels like it’s been woven into our community much longer. When asked what inspired her to step into fostering and volunteering, she shared a sentiment that perfectly captures her heart:

“Dogs have brought so much laughter, comfort and happiness to our household, I want to help more dogs find loving homes…and more homes have the love of a dog!”

Her motivation is simple, genuine, and deeply felt—helping dogs find the same joy her own family has experienced.

The Hardest and Best Parts

Like many volunteers, Laura acknowledges the emotional weight that comes with rescue work. She told us:

“Seeing so many dogs in need, and some coming from such horrible starts in life or horrible circumstances.”

But even with the challenges, she finds immense beauty in the community she’s become part of:

“Honestly, the volunteers at KCK are all so amazing. There is such willingness to help and support each other, the animals, the events, etc. People who volunteer with animals come from a place of giving and self-sacrifice. It’s just nice to be around. I love the KCK family.”

Her words remind us that rescue isn’t just about saving dogs—it’s about the people who show up for them, and for each other.

A Life Rooted in Adventure and Family

Laura’s story spans continents. Born in West Africa, she attended school in East Africa until middle school before growing up mostly in Northern New Mexico. She and her husband—who serves as a firefighter—have called Colorado Springs home since 1998.

Their family includes two grown children and one beloved senior pup, a Pit/Staffy mix who is now 12. They previously adopted two dogs around the same time, and although they lost their “big guy” a few years ago, his memory remains close to their hearts.

When she’s not volunteering, Laura loves spending time with her family, watching her kids play hockey, and being outdoors—simple joys that keep her grounded.

A Favorite Memory: Lucas/Seiko

Every volunteer has that one dog who leaves a lasting imprint. For Laura, it was Lucas—also known as Seiko—her very first Doggie Day Out companion.

“He was such a big, sweet goofball. Super easygoing and charming…everyone loved him when we were out and about…and he had the most amazing eyes. What a little hunk!”

It’s clear he made her first experience unforgettable.

The Personal Impact of Volunteering

Laura describes the effect volunteering has had on her life with refreshing honesty:

“I have met the most wonderful people. Being connected to a community of givers refreshes my soul, and restores my faith in humanity. Cheesy, but 100% true.”

Her words capture what so many feel but rarely say out loud—rescue work doesn’t just change dogs’ lives; it changes ours too.

How the Community Can Help

Laura believes that small acts can make a big difference:

“I wish that more people would get involved in small ways, because it makes a difference. Even a few dollars here and there can make an impact on the medical bills or other large costs that rescues have. I think spreading the word about smaller organizations also can go a long way.”

Her call to action is gentle but powerful: rescue thrives when everyone does something, even if it’s small.

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Laura, thank you for your kindness, your energy, and your unwavering commitment to dogs in need. You embody the heart of Karl’s Canine Krew, and we are so grateful to have you in our pack.

If you’d like to join volunteers like Laura in making a difference, visit our volunteer page and learn how you can help change a life today.