DELRAY BEACH, FL (February 10, 2011)  – Arthur E. Benjamin, Founder & President was sad to announce the passing of "Buddy", his co-founder, the most-amazing 5 pound white poodle, yesterday evening. An adoption himself, he was 63 in dog years.

"Buddy" started Mr. Benjamin on the journey of rescuing dogs & other abused animals when he ran an internet ad with Buddy's picture that raised the funds to save 2000 dogs & cats from Hurricane Katrina's aftermath. And eventually, that work led to the funding and founding of American Dog Rescue a nationally-based 501(c) 3 charity.

"Buddy" also was a seizure-prediction service dog who began to predict the late Mrs. Benjamin's seizures during her battle with breast cancer, and who also did this for another charge.

After Katrina, "Buddy" was given a 5 lb. female poodle "Holly" who was epileptic and who he began to serve. They were known affectionately as "Buddy Holly" and attended many fund-raisers for animal welfare & protection.

Buddy's story has raised millions for animal welfare & protection at American Dog Rescue, Best Friend's Animal Sanctuary, Humane Society of the United States, Tri-County Humane, PAWS in the City and dozens of other organizations.

Chastity Rodgers, HSUS Southwest Regional Director of Philanthropy, best summed up the feelings of the thousands who knew Buddy: "His spirit will live forever in our hearts; Buddy will continue to be a great inspiration to us all in our work".

Buddy was buried on February 11, 2011 at Tri-County Humane Society in Boca Raton, FL in their pet cemetery. Jeanette Christos, their Executive Director, said that Tri-County is privileged to be his resting place.

Tax deductible donations in his memory can be made to American Dog Rescue at www.americandogrescue.org. These funds will be used 100% to save other dogs that will be known as "Buddy's Buddies".

American Dog Rescue (www.americandogrescue.org) is a tax-exempt, non-profit 501(c)3 organization committed to finding a home for every adoptable dog in the United States.  American Dog Rescue is committed to placing healthy dogs in permanent homes that are the right fit for the animal and its family.  Donations can be made by visiting www.americandogrescue.org/donate or calling (801) 944-3023.

The Humane Society of the United States is the nation’s largest animal protection organization – backed by 11 million Americans, or one of every 28. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty — On the web at humanesociety.org.

The Tri County Humane Society is a no-kill organization saving animals in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade Counties. Located at 21287 Boca Rio Road in Boca Raton, FL, adoption hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 11am to 4:30pm. For more information, please call (561) 482-8110 or visit www.tricountyhumane.org.