09/29/2026
Our beloved Kevin is not with us anymore.
I haven’t shared that publicly until now. As I continue to struggle with his absence, I can’t think of a better way to honor him than by recognizing the passing of Rich Avanzino—a man who helped change what was possible for homeless animals and inspired the no-kill movement.
People like Rich inspired rescues to take a chance on dogs like our Kevin.
Kevin was pulled from Chicago Animal Care and Control by Mit Liebe German Shepherd Dog Rescue. Someone was willing to put a big, unknown German Shepherd in their car, bring him into their home, and give him a chance.
That chance gave us Kevin.
He won me over with his grace around children, neighbors, and pretty much anyone with a treat and a smile. But if I was unwell or working late at the office, he became a different guy—watchful and protective. His complexity always surprised me.
And then Kevin got to return the favor.
Over the years, he helped us foster many other dogs. He had a way with them. He was calm and steady, even when the dog coming into our home wasn’t. In his own quiet way, a dog who once needed someone to take a chance on him helped us take chances on others.
Kevin became part of our family, my office, and even Tree Frog Insurance. Many of you knew him—and probably knew that bringing a treat was a good way to make a friend.
So today, for all the dogs like Kevin, thank you to Rich Avanzino. And thank you to the rescuers, foster families, volunteers and shelter workers who keep doing this work.
I hope the torch keeps getting passed.
Here’s to Rich. And here’s to our Kevin. ❤️
We were incredibly lucky someone gave him a chance. And because they did, Kevin helped give that chance to others.
https://chewonthis.maddiesfund.org/2026/09/a-man-with-a-purpose-the-enduring-legacy-of-rich-avanzino/
