Dogsters, we have a winner in our contest for the four-day retreat at the wonderful Camp Unleashed. According to the managers of Camp Unleashed, it was insanely hard to come up with a winner because there were so many richly deserving entries. They hashed it out for a long time to come up with the top prize. And that prize goes to…
Lori Eckman and Bud, her 14-year-old golden retriever. Here’s what she wrote for her entry last week:
This would be perfect for Buds Summer Vacation! My Golden Retriever, Bud was my first rescue, when he was just 8 months old. I found him tied to a tree next to my apartment building and he has been with me ever since. It used to be that my daily work schedule could have very long hours that sometimes blended into the weekends. But evey day Bud would greet me with a smile and a tail wag! Bud and I try to get away every year in September for a week just to re-connect and for me to give back to him what he so lovenly gives to me.
Each year we participate in various fund raisers and dog walks to help support Buds canine friends. Hes such a trooper and he participates with a smile on his face as we walk each mile! This year we are hosting our first dog walk in Costa Mesa California for 2 Million Dogs, 2 Miles in November.
Ive been unemployed for a little over a year now so the money is a little tight. However, Buds Summer Vacation will still take place, in September like in years past ~ he deserves that. Ill just have to be a bit more creative as to where we go and for how long. The where isnt as important as the chance to re-connect with My Bud. To show him how much he means to me and how much he gives to all thoses who meet him. Bud will be 14 this October and I feel I am the luckiest human to have him to share his life with me! I would love the chance to have him experience Camp Unleashed where being Bud is what its all about. 
Lori and Bud, congratulations. We’ll be putting the Camp Unleashed people in touch with you and you can make arrangements. Have a wonderful time!!! You deserve it!
The managers of the camps have also selected two alternates, in case Lori and Bud can’t make it. The managers will also be in touch with the alternates by the end of the week, and at the very least, will be sending them a Camp Unleashed treat bag.
Dogsters, I am so glad I didn’t have to judge this contest. You are amazing dog lovers with incredible stories, and I’d award pretty much all of you with a week at camp if I could afford all the enrollment fees.
Update 8/5/11: If you’ve rescued your dog from a shelter and want to have another shot at attending the Asheville camp, check out the comment below from Kay, the director of that Camp Unleashed. To enter, simply submit your entry to her Kay@campunleashed.com. Good luck again, at least to you Dogsters in the South!
