ColliesWithoutBorders
Thinking about becoming a CWB sponsor? Many of our sponsors say what started as a simple wish to help quickly blossomed into a bond filled with love, hope, and lasting friendship. Their stories remind us that sponsorship is not just about support—it’s about connection, compassion, and being part of something bigger than ourselves.
And if $50 a month feels like too much, please know you’re not alone. Many of our sponsors team up with a friend or family member, joining hearts and hands to make an incredible difference together. Even small steps, taken with love, change lives.
From Long-Distance Friend to Family: A Love for Collies and ColliesWithoutBorders
By Tena & Marty Splettstoeszer
“In the garden of life, friends are the most beautiful flowers. They bloom with love, care, and support, becoming our second family. Their presence makes the world a better place, filling it with laughter and happiness.”
We’ve been friends with Flora for many years, first meeting on Facebook when she was writing about her beloved collie, Urfy. During that time, we shared the heartbreak of losing our cherished pets. Supporting each other through that grief was deeply meaningful—because that’s what friends do. Flora, we’re so grateful to have you in our lives. When the war in Ukraine broke out in 2022, Marty and I felt compelled to help—but we weren’t sure how. After speaking with Flora, we joined with others who shared our concern for the people and their collies. We sent school supplies so children could continue learning, even in bunkers. Teachers were doing everything they could to maintain a sense of normalcy amid the chaos. We also gathered clothing, pet supplies, and other essentials for families in need. We were overjoyed when Flora called to tell us that ColliesWithoutBorders had officially been recognized as a nonprofit organization. Flora, we know that’s when the real work began—and you have done a remarkable job leading this mission. Your dedication, along with your incredible board, is inspiring. We’ve never heard a single complaint about any of the initiatives we’ve undertaken as a group. Marty and I are so proud to be a part of this organization and to help in any way we can. When the call for sponsors went out, we didn’t hesitate to say yes. We were matched with a beautiful collie named Solomonchek from Dnipro. Sponsoring him and supporting his family has been an absolute joy. It brought an unexpected and beautiful addition to our lives—a bond that has grown into lasting friendship with his owner, Olya, as well as her mother and daughter. We sent them a package of goodies, and Olya shared photos of the three of them smiling with the gifts. Seeing their happiness brought us so much joy. Not long after, we received a package from Dnipro. Inside was a stunning wool portrait of Solomonchek—handmade by Olya and her daughter Nastya. Tears welled up in my eyes. It was clear: they had welcomed us into their family. Despite the language barrier, love has built a bridge between us. We’ve found ways to understand each other, and our bond continues to grow. Olya once told me that when the war ends, she plans to visit us in Minnesota. She wants to see our home. We’re endlessly proud to be part of this worldwide community of collie lovers who stand up for the breed and each other. Through ColliesWithoutBorders, we’ve made friendships we never could have imagined—across countries, across cultures. To anyone considering getting involved: take that step. Support ColliesWithoutBorders. You’ll never regret it. With love from Minnesota, Tena & Marty Splettstoeszer and our collies Kodi, Skye & Beau
Marty & Tena's collie family: Solomonchek living in Dnipro, Ukraine. Beau, Skye & Kodi at home in Minnesota.
“When friends become family, distance and time become insignificant. The love and bond we share transcend all barriers and keep us connected—no matter where life takes us.”
“I Never Met a Collie I Didn’t Love”
By Debbie Taylor
The beloved American humorist Will Rogers once said, “I never met a man I didn’t like.” In my life, it would be more fitting to say, “I never met a collie I didn’t love!” Several years ago, after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, I was fortunate enough to connect with Flora, who had posted about some Ukrainian collies in need of sponsors. That’s when I first saw Stasik—a beautiful, sweet, two-year-old blue merle boy living near the northern border—and I instantly fell in love. He became my first “adoptive” overseas collie. As the saying goes, “Collies are like potato chips—you can’t have just one!” Now, I have four “adoptive” Ukrainian collies, and each one has expanded my heart and enriched my soul. My Ukrainian family includes Stasik, Bella, Abby, and Businka. I feel incredibly blessed to have them in my life, and I’m filled with joy every time I see their photos on Facebook. You’ve heard the expression “warm and fuzzy.” That’s exactly how I feel every time I think of these dogs and their human families. In the midst of so much fear, uncertainty, and hardship, the knowledge that I can provide even a small sense of comfort is my greatest joy. We are all in this together. We are all family. And most importantly, we are all collie lovers. This special bond unites us in a unique and powerful way. I hope my story inspires others to sponsor these miracle collies who bring such comfort and companionship to their families in these incredibly difficult times. It’s my small way of sending a big, heartfelt hug to people I may never meet in person but who are deeply connected to me through our shared love of these incredible dogs. I love you all. I’m sending my prayers and holding on to hope that this nightmare will soon come to an end. Please remember—we are here for you. And I can’t wait to see more photos of sponsored collies bringing light to such dark days.
Debbie and her wonderful working therapy dog Teddy
Debbie has been doing therapy work for over 35 years. Her collie, Nicholas, helped a wounded warrior out of a four month coma suffered while serving in Afghanistan. Nicholas received a special award from the Admiral and the Red Cross made a movie about him! Collies make natural therapy dogs. The collies in Ukraine are doing just that for their families living with unrelenting stress. We can’t change the situation but we can help the collies who are comforting therapy dogs for their families.
From Facebook Friend to Family: The Power of Kindness and ColliesWithoutBorders
by Carol Foster
When Flora reached out on Facebook nearly three years ago, seeking CWB sponsors, I had no idea what to expect. We had been Facebook friends for years, and I trusted her completely. I simply knew I had to do something to help her, to help these poor collies and their families. For the cost of one restaurant meal, I could provide a collie with food, treats, and medicine for an entire month. I couldn’t pass that up. At the time, I never imagined I’d have the honor of sponsoring our famous canine hero, Helena! Those of you who know her understand just what an incredible, warrior spirit she is. You also know her remarkable parents, Iryna and Oleg. Little did I know, I’d develop such a deep, loving connection to Iryna—a woman I may never meet in person. Over the past few years, our journey has been a whirlwind of emotions—joy and heartbreak, the kind of raw, real experience that forms the foundation of true, honest friendship. Iryna and I have been there for each other every single day, through every hour, day and night. We lift each other up, spark each other’s creativity, and provide hope when it feels like it’s running low. When you show kindness and humanity, you do it without expecting anything in return. But in this case, I’ve been blessed beyond measure. The love, joy, and hope I’ve gained from this incredible community of collie lovers is beyond words. Love has bridged our language barrier, our geographic distance, and even the challenges brought on by war. Beyond my bond with Iryna and Helena, my extended ColliesWithoutBorders family has been a constant source of light and optimism in these times of uncertainty. I encourage everyone to reach out, to help, and to support ColliesWithoutBorders. It’s a chance to be part of something truly special.
Carol with her collie Abby and Iryna with her collie Helena. They became the best of friends through ColliesWithoutBorders sponsorship.
We have collie families that are still need of a sponsor. Please contact us if you can help.