This time of year, love is in the air. It’s a great time to remember those dearest to our hearts—even our four-legged, (very best) friends. If you’ve been touched by the unconditional love and devotion of a pet, then the important work that the PETCO Foundation is doing is something you will want to be a part of.

Since 1999, they have been aiding animal-welfare organizations in finding lifelong, loving homes for millions of orphaned pets. They also help fund spay and neuter, assisted therapy and humane education programs. Today, they donate about $8 million a year to assist companion animals across the country. Largely funded by seasonal fundraisers at over 1,000 PETCO stores nationwide. Their mission is to raise the quality of life for pets and people who love and need them.

If you want to learn more about the PETCO Foundation or make a donation, visit their website:

PETCO Foundation

• $25 feeds orphaned kittens until they are weaned
• $35 provides grooming for a neglected dog
• $50 provides pet supplies to a foster family
• $100 provides vet care for an abused animal

The PETCO Foundation was awarded four stars—the highest rating possible by Charity Navigator.

Have a great story about YOUR pet?  Please share… we’d love to hear it!

Docherty Portrait Designs - For those once-in-a-lifetime moments

Hope everyone had a wonderful day with their Sweetie!  Happy Valentine’s Day from Docherty Portait Designs!

Docherty Portrait Designs - For those once-in-a-lifetime moments

Docherty Potrait Designs’ Favorite Date Ideas—Perfect for Valentine’s (or any) Day

Ice Skating    Find an outdoor skating rink and rent some skates. Bundle up and grab a thermos of hot cocoa (with maybe a touch of peppermint schnapps), some mugs and a camera to document your winter wonderland memories.

Stargazing    Find a tranquil outdoor setting and bring an air mattress, hammock or some reclining chairs. For an unforgettable time, mark your calendar for the next big meteor shower and get ready to make some wishes! Bring a nice bottle of wine and ask 20 questions while you gaze. Make your own constellation.

Take a ski day    Hit the slopes with your love, and be sure to spend some time by a nice roaring fire at the end of the day. Make s’mores and then hit the hot tub together.

Scavenger Hunt    Whether it’s throughout your house or throughout the whole city, make a scavenger hunt for your love and help them follow the clues to a picnic or dinner at a nice restaurant.

Row, Row, Row your Boat    Rent a row boat and take a few leisurely spins around a lake. Timeless romance. Sigh…

Go to a Game    Get tickets to a home game and tailgate together. Wear team jerseys and be super fans together.

Play Strip Poker    And let them win a few games!

Get Fresh    Go to an orchard or berry farm and pick some fresh fruit to enjoy together. Bring a nice bottle of champagne (of course) to reward yourselves for your efforts. Find a nice spot to plant a tree together. Go back and carve your names in it on an anniversary or special occasion down the road.

Be Adventurous    Go bungee jumping, skydiving, rock climbing, anything out of your comfort zone. You’ll get a great adrenaline rush and wonderful memories with your loved one.

Dance the Night Away    Take a dance class and then go to a nice dinner afterwards.

Volunteer Together    Find a common interest and donate some time together. Visit a nursing home for a monthly bingo night, help out at a food bank, visit children in the hospital or clean up a trail or park.

Hope this list helps your imagination run wild. Get out there and spend some quality time with the one you love!

Docherty Portrait Designs - For those once-in-a-lifetime moments