For pet owners, the thought of who will care for their animal companions if they are no longer able is a significant concern. Brad McNulty, a certified public accountant with estate-planning experience, faced this very issue. Searching for solutions online, he discovered an innovative approach: the Perpetual Pet Care Program (PPCP) at the K-State College of Veterinary Medicine. This program offered a promising way to ensure the well-being of his pets while also contributing to a valuable cause.
Brad and his wife, Jeanita, residents of Blue Grass, Iowa, had recently moved away from family. Their “family” consisted of six beloved basset hounds: Kelsey, Festus, Sadie, Harley, Watson, and Sophie. Understanding that pets are legally considered property, they sought a robust plan to guarantee their dogs’ care in any eventuality. The PPCP not only addressed their immediate concern for pet care but also offered the opportunity to fund scholarships and research within the College of Veterinary Medicine – a dual benefit that resonated deeply with them. Despite no prior connection to K-State, their quest for the best pet care led them to explore this unique program further.
Driven by a desire to learn firsthand, Jeanita, a part-time librarian, explained, “We had a trip planned to Kansas City anyway. We decided at that time we would drive to Manhattan to see what we thought of the facilities and the people.” This proactive approach underscores the importance of due diligence when making crucial decisions about pet care.
The McNultys, seasoned pet owners with over two decades of experience, had previously visited veterinary facilities at Colorado State and Iowa State universities. This background gave them a discerning perspective when evaluating K-State. Their primary focus was to find a place that mirrored their own dedication to animal welfare.
“We wanted to get a feeling for how the facility would take care of our animals,” Brad emphasized. “The people at KSU all seem to have that same level of caring and concern for the program that we do for our bassets. We found what we believed to be a perfect match.” Jeanita echoed this sentiment, stating, “We were very impressed.” This personal connection and assurance of compassionate care are vital aspects of choosing the right perpetual pet care program.
Their journey into pet ownership began with a collie mix named Cody and a cockapoo named Blackie. Jeanita’s fondness for basset hounds later led them to Baxter, and their basset family grew over time, even including Festus, a rescue found abandoned and blind. This history highlights their deep commitment to animal welfare and their willingness to provide specialized care for their pets.
To ensure their home was suitable for their large canine family, the McNultys designed their Iowa residence with a heated garage/kennel and a doggy door leading to a spacious 10,000-square-foot fenced backyard. This thoughtful home design demonstrates their proactive approach to pet care and well-being.
“They like to chase each other and keep each other company,” Brad noted, describing the dogs’ playful interactions. Jeanita added a charming anecdote about their morning routine: “When Brad leaves in the morning, Watson will get the others howling, like a chorus. They do their little song until I come out. They must think they’re home alone because when I let them know I’m there, they quiet down.” These details paint a picture of a loving and engaging pet household.
Following their visit to Manhattan, the McNultys solidified their commitment by pledging $500,000 to enroll their basset hounds in the PPCP. This significant investment underscores their profound dedication to their pets’ future and their belief in the K-State program.
Dr. Roger Fingland, director of the teaching hospital, recognized the McNultys’ priorities: “The McNultys were clearly focused on finding the best available health care for their pets. They were interested in developing a relationship with a veterinary hospital that was capable of providing exceptional care for their pets, regardless of the condition. We were pleased that they decided to associate with the Veterinary Health Center after evaluating several programs. We look forward to working with them to provide the level of medical care they desire. The McNultys are special people and we are fortunate to have them as friends of the teaching hospital.” Dr. Fingland’s statement emphasizes the program’s commitment to providing top-tier veterinary care and building strong relationships with pet owners.
“Ever since we’ve had our dogs, we’ve always taken excellent care of them — the best we could,” Brad reiterated. “The cost of treatment or anything of that nature has never been an issue, so we were looking for some place that could continue that level of care.” Their unwavering commitment to providing the best possible care for their pets was a driving force in their decision to choose the Perpetual Pet Care Program.
The memory of their first basset hound, Baxter, who succumbed to cancer a year prior, also influenced their decision. They ensured K-State’s facilities were equipped to handle such serious illnesses. “They have MRI technology, which is very impressive,” Jeanita noted. “They seem to have everything to provide the best care possible.” This access to advanced medical technology was a crucial factor in their confidence in K-State’s ability to provide comprehensive care.
Brad concluded with a resolute statement: “If one of our other dogs gets sick, we will do everything possible to get our dog to Kansas State.” This final remark encapsulates their complete trust in the perpetual pet care program at K-State and their dedication to ensuring the lifelong health and happiness of their beloved basset hounds.
