By Cindy Dian / Correspondent

EUSTIS Marie Zaman's German shepherd therapy dog, Jesse, was only 6 years old when she developed a spinal infection.

Zaman could not afford all the treatments, so fundraisers were held and she was able to raise enough for traditional treatment, acupuncture and stem-cell replacement therapy. Unfortunately, Zaman ultimately had to make the hardest decision of her life and end Jesses suffering.

Sadly, nothing was working, she said. But I am so thankful to the community for trying all they could to help her. So many people got involved that they created this organization in honor of Jesse, to help other dogs in difficult situations get back to being therapy dogs.

That organization, Jesse's Fund for Therapy Dogs, helps injured therapy dogs so they can continue to serve Lake County.The third annual Bark in the Park festival last Sunday in Eustis was held toraise money for the organization.

Between events like the dog-kissing contest, best trick and fastest ice cream eater, $870 was raised for the cause.

The main purpose for this event was to get the word out and let people know that we are here to help, President Leslie Lightbourne said. We are thrilled with the success, and we were even able to reach out to a person with a therapy dog who has a major illness and assist them with their treatment. We had a great time at the event and are excited to keep it going.

Zaman said it was an honor when she heard of the organizations decision but said it was very difficult telling her story and often times had to walk away to cry.

You get one special dog in a lifetime and she was the one, Zaman said. She loved people, visiting nursing homes and hospitals and made everyones life better. Im glad that this organization is focused on helping other dogs receive the help they need.

Zaman now has another therapy dog. It's the daughter of Jesse's sister, which she said reminds her a lot of Jesse.

With more than 300 registered therapy dogs in Lake County, the group has its work cut out for it. Funds are given on an individual basis if a therapy dog is injured or falls ill and requires medical attention. It does not include routine checkups, vaccinations or pest treatments.

For an application and guidelines, go to http://www.facebook.com/JessesFund or email JessesFundTherapyDogs@gmail.com.

Therapy dogs can touch so many lives in their lifetime, Lightbourne said. We simply want to help them so they can continue to provide love and comfort to our community.

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Jesse's Fund helps Lake's sick, injured therapy dogs - Daily Commercial