Clarence

Clarence is named after his breeder’s grandfather, Clarence Risden who had a cleft lip himself. Risden was a spunky character, just like our Clarence. 

Clarence was born Friday, August 13, 2021 at 7 ounces while his 10 siblings were all over 15 ounces. It was quickly noticed that he was different and needed additional care due to a cleft palate and lip. He was tube fed every two hours for three weeks. He was then transferred to foster mom where he was able to nurse off of. 

The breeders, Chris and Ron Shanahan share, “Clarence you are going to change so many lives, know soon many are going to love you as much as we do! We are excited for you to change a future veteran's life. Thank you IOWA Service Dogs for all you do, as well as love him.”

Clarence was donated by Chris & Ron Shanahan at Iron Hill Retrievers.

Izzy

Izzy is named after a favorite sloth stuffed animal of Carrie Beth Moore (CB). CB, who is the daughter of puppy guardian Jan Moore and her husband Andy, passed away at the young age of 14 in June of 2022, two weeks after heart surgery. She loved helping Jan with dog training, as well as pretending to be a vet to her stuffed animals. She loved every person she met, and is dearly missed by all who knew her!

Izzy came from Wilderness Kennels.

Wally

Wally is named after Wally Anderson. Anderson was a messenger (aka carrier) in World War II. After WWII, he met the love of his life, Betty. They married and had 3 boys. Wally and Betty built and ran a local hardware store. After Betty’s passing, Wally remarried a woman named Bea. Wally was 82 when he died.

Wally came from Wilderness Kennels.

Charlie

Charlie is named after Charles Andrew McComas, affectionately known as Chuck. Chuck was born on September 5, 1936, in Iowa City. Growing up in his cherished hometown instilled in him a deep love for his community, motivating him to give back generously throughout his life.

After graduating from City High School in 1954, Chuck pursued a degree in accounting at the University of Iowa, graduating in 1958. He then served as a B-47 pilot for the Strategic Air Command in the United States Air Force.

Returning to Iowa City after his military service, Chuck embarked on a successful career. In 1977, he co-founded McComas Lacina Construction, a venture that designed and constructed numerous structures both locally and nationally. Chuck remained dedicated to his business until his retirement in 1998.

Despite enduring the loss of his wife, Janice Lacina McComas, to breast cancer in 1986, Chuck found love again with Mary "Jean" Huss, whom he married in 1987. Together, they embraced a blended family, expanding their household with Jean's five children and embarking on a compassionate mission to Bosnia in 1996.

Chuck's impact extended beyond his immediate family, as he was deeply involved in his community and touched the lives of many. Notably, he was the uncle and godfather of one of our dedicated volunteers, Jamie Fisher.

Throughout his life, Chuck McComas exemplified the values of service, compassion, and dedication to family and community, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire others.

Charlie came from Family Loved Labs

Sammi

Sammi, the namesake of dedicated staff at Sammons Financial Group, embodies the company's mission of empowering futures and changing lives. Regardless of their role within the organization, every employee at Sammons Financial Group influences the lives of customers, distribution partners, and communities. Their collective purpose is to develop or support solutions that empower the financial futures of all they touch, thereby effecting positive change.

In addition to their shared purpose, employees at Sammons Financial Group are united by a set of core values: accountability, connection, openness, respect, and integrity. These values serve as the foundation for the company's growth and success, with each one being essential to fully represent who they are as an organization. At Sammons Financial Group, the power of these values is recognized and embraced, emphasizing that none are more important than the other—all are necessary for the company to thrive and fulfill its mission.

Sammi came from Family Loved Labs