Grit the Dog's Inspiring Campaign: Helping Pups in Need

The world of calendars is not typically where you'd expect to find a heartwarming story, but Grit the Dog is changing that narrative. This white Labrador, known as Sport Systems' chief happiness officer, is featured prominently in the 2026 Sport Systems dog calendar. Alongside Grit, several other shop dogs and employee pups grace the pages, each bringing joy and a touch of warmth to the calendar experience.

Collectible Dog Cards and Rewards

The calendar is not just a collection of cute dog photos, it offers interactive fun. Each page includes slots for business cards representing the dogs featured. Visitors can collect a card for each dog they meet working at Sport Systems. Collecting nine cards earns them a $50 gift card, an activity that has already garnered the love and excitement of kids who eagerly call to learn which dogs are on duty each day.

These calendars are available for free, but they come with a special feature: a QR code generator. Scanning the code allows people to participate in the "Run with Grit" campaign, a fundraising effort dedicated to supporting local dogs facing medical, financial, and other challenges.

Grit's Legacy of Support

This isn't Grit's first foray into philanthropy. Previously, the beloved Labrador was instrumental in raising $125,000 for Warehouse 505, a nonprofit providing a safe space for youth to explore art and music. Grit's efforts also extended to animal welfare organizations, cementing his reputation as a canine with a cause.

The calendar campaign launched at the perfect time, following a successful drive that supported a Rio Rancho couple needing funds for their dog Miller. Miller, a heroic white Labrador, saved his sister Amelia, a miniature schnauzer, from a house fire. Grit's involvement helped raise $17,000 for Miller's medical care, showcasing the power of community-driven support.

A Community-Driven Initiative

Grit's owner, Duane Kinsley, expresses a deep commitment to making a tangible difference. "We love helping specific families in need, ensuring the funds raised have a direct impact," Kinsley says. To maintain this personal touch, the campaign invites families to send letters detailing their pet's situation. A committee reviews these letters every three months to select which stories to support, seeking narratives that capture the bond and challenges between families and their furry friends.

For those who wish to help or seek assistance, the process is straightforward yet impactful. The campaign thrives on compelling stories, genuine needs, and the willingness of the community to rally around its four-legged members.

How You Can Get Involved

Whether you're looking to support the campaign or have a story of your own to share, Grit's initiative provides an accessible platform to make a difference. By scanning the QR code on the calendar or by reaching out with your story, you become part of a movement dedicated to helping dogs and the families who love them.

In a world where challenges often seem overwhelming, Grit the Dog reminds us of the power of compassion and community. Through his efforts and those of Sport Systems, countless dogs and families find hope and support in their most critical moments.