With the cost of living increasing, many community members are in need of low-cost or free veterinary care. The OC Tober Fund covers services like veterinary examinations, vaccinations, diagnostics, spay/neuter surgeries, humane euthanasia, and cremation.

The fund is named after Marilyn’s beloved Shih Tzu of fifteen years. The little flea-infested stray was found at a gravel pit and brought to a local veterinary facility for medical attention on October 29th.

Marilyn’s mother (Elanor O’Neal) walking into a local veterinary facility to get dog food and was greeted by a friendly man holding the little dog on his lap. He inquired if she might be interested in adopting the stray dog, to which Ms. O’Neal replied, “Oh, my daughter would love her!”

Marilyn, a self-described “big dog” person, never entertained getting a small dog, but she offered to help find a good home for the little pooch.

That weekend – on the 12th anniversary of her late husband’s (Eli N. George) passing – something magical happened. The scroungy little dog captured every bit of Marilyn’s heart. She decided to keep the little gift from Heaven.

The name “OC Tober” was bestowed on the dog. She lived for 15 years with Marilyn’s family of big dogs and frisky felines. OC captured the hearts of many. She mastered the art of balancing on a lake water board and enjoyed riding in style in a comfortable backpack on hiking days.

OC was awarded first place in a photo contest sporting a colorful life-vest on a pontoon boat; “Captain OC Tober on the Blue Angel”.

Marilyn is now a lover of little and big dogs, and has committed to always including the Shih Tzu breed in her canine family in honor of OC Tober (1996 to 2013).

Inspired by her incredible bond with OC, Marilyn is gifting care and comfort to thousands of community dogs and cats for years to come.

Learn more about the Pet Care Assistance Program or fill out an application online.