What is the Tucker KBD Fund?
Tucker, border collie and wildlife service dog extraordinaire, left a legacy that has stretched around the world. He was known by biologists locally and in many countries around the world who had either met him during his travels and work or read about him in various articles. His 14 years on the planet truly made a difference for waterfowl and humans.
In 2001 The Tucker Memorial Fund was established to support wildlife service dogs working with a variety of wildlife. The emphasis of the organization shifted in 2004 when I learned that Rocky Spencer, wildlife biologist with WDFW and a colleague of mine, got Mishka, a Karelian bear dog to help in his work with carnivores, especially bear and cougar in western Washington State. Tucker's KBD Fund raised enough money in early 2005 to acquire a second Karelian Bear Dog, Cash, that is now in eastern Washington (handler Rich Beausoleil).
In late 2008, WDFW made the KBDs an official part of the Enforcement division (they handle the bear and cougar conflicts in our state). They wanted a third dog and possible a fourth to help with the increasing number of bear conflicts in western Washington. This would only be possible with a private-public partnership. WDFW had no funds to support another dog. We were asked to help.
The organization officially changed to Tucker's KBD Fund, in early 2009, dedicated to the support and promotion of the use of well trained KBD's as wildlife service dogs within WDFW. We have applied for federal tax exempt status and our approval is pending.
The Tucker's KBD Fund focus is on the newest KBD addition, Colter.
Tucker's legacy lives on with this important program. He hopes you will help a donation.