At Stokeshire, our Red Fern Scholarship ensures that financial obstacles don’t block access to life-changing companionship.
As of Nov 09, 2025
We have provided $123,575 to families, military members, first responders, educators, and those in need!
“ I thought of the prayer I had said when I asked God to help me get two hound pups. I knew He had surely helped, for He had given me the heart, courage, and determination.”
We firmly believe in the profound companionship and unwavering love that dogs offer. Inspired by 'Where the Red Fern Grows,' we strive to make the joy of having a loyal friend accessible to everyone. Our mission, while inspired by the values of hard work and determination, encourages literacy and empowers individuals to surpass their aspirations. Dogs have an incredible ability to heal and uplift, making the future brighter alongside them. Our dedication is to make this possibility a reality for as many people as possible.
Furthermore, our passion lies in nurturing a love for nature and outdoor adventures that we believe can help foster healing and personal growth. Having previously directed a Children's Museum and established a Wisconsin Summer Camp centered on outdoor exploration, our commitment to these values remains unwavering. Stokeshire Designer Doodles is excited to announce our Red Fern Scholarship initiative, offering deserving individuals the chance to apply for a scholarship towards the pup of their dreams.
Every reserved puppy helps support this program, and even non-refundable deposits from changed plans contribute to our scholarship fund to help other families receive a therapy or emotional support puppy.
🐾 Red Fern Scholarship – Important Clarification
The Red Fern Scholarship helps deserving families, veterans, children, and individuals access a life-changing companion—while honoring our ethical, purpose-driven placement process.
What It Is
The scholarship applies only to puppies unchosen after Selection Day. Recipients are matched with these “hidden gems” for a second chance at the perfect home. Scholarships do not apply to active litters or grant priority picks.
What It’s Not
- Not a waitlist bypass or access to future litters.
- Not a way to select a specific puppy—awards depend on availability.
- Not guaranteed by timing, color, size, or coat; flexibility is required.
Why It Matters
Every Stokeshire puppy is raised with intention and care. This clarity preserves our standards and ensures scholarships serve those who truly need them—while giving every puppy a real path home.
Need Flexible Payments?
If a partial scholarship isn’t the right fit, explore Klarna for interest-free installments or extended plans—bundling training and transport if needed.
Questions about eligibility or timing? We’re happy to help—reach out before you apply so we can guide you.
Who Qualifies for the Red Fern Scholarship
The Red Fern Scholarship was created for those who show compassion, determination, and a desire to grow through the love of a dog. We welcome applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, including families, children, and Veterans facing financial or personal challenges.
- Families or individuals who have demonstrated responsibility, perseverance, or service to others.
- Children and students who show emotional maturity, empathy, and readiness for a lifelong companion.
- Veterans seeking companionship and healing through the bond of a trained or therapy-grade dog.
- Applicants with limited financial means who would benefit deeply from the presence of a dog in their lives.
Each applicant is evaluated with compassion and care — our goal is to match every deserving person with the right puppy at the right time, honoring both our mission and the dogs we raise.
“Through the toughest challenges, one dream has kept me going: welcoming my companion, Angel, into my life. Thanks to Red Fern, this isn’t just a wish—it’s within reach. Angel isn’t just a puppy; she’s the promise of brighter days, my adventure buddy, and my reason to keep pushing forward. Together, we’ll share the joy of each sunrise on the lake and the quiet peace of fireside nights. Here’s to new beginnings with my best friend by my side.”
“Thanks to Stokeshire’s unwavering dedication, Scout has become more than just a therapy dog; he’s a beacon of hope and joy for our students and foster children.
I was so nervous for our dog’s first day at school as a therapy dog. After all the time, love, and training we put into preparing him, it suddenly felt real—and overwhelming. But watching him walk through those school doors with calm confidence, ready to share his gentle spirit and comfort, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude. Thank you for helping make my dream come true. This journey has meant the world to me.”
Scholarship Essay Guidelines
We are driven by an unwavering commitment to our cause: extending a helping hand to every child, Veteran, or family by providing scholarships to assist in bringing home their beloved companion and lifelong friend.
Please read, listen, or watch Where the Red Fern Grows—extra credit for thoughtfully using quotes/themes from the book. Write a 500–1,000-word essay on one of the topics below (parents may assist). You may change specific details (like names) if they feel too personal.
- Perseverance: Tell us how you worked hard to achieve something. What made it difficult? How did you overcome those difficulties? How did the experience change you? How will caring for a dog be similar?
- Resilience: Describe a time you felt lonely, afraid, or bullied—or when you befriended someone who was. How did you respond, and how could a dog help you heal and grow?
- Purpose & Faith: Share what motivates you—your faith, your drive, or your sense of service. How do you find encouragement, and how do you help or inspire others?
- Life with a Dog: Tell us how a puppy will improve your life. What role will your dog play, and how will the experience shape you as a person?
- Veterans: How does Where the Red Fern Grows connect with your experiences after service? Reflect on challenges, your path toward healing, and how caring for a dog could support that process.
Scholarship Coverage & Additional Costs to Budget
The Red Fern Scholarship helps make bringing home a companion more accessible, but some fees and services are not covered. Please plan to budget for:
- Deposit: A deposit is required to secure your puppy.
- Transportation: Flights, delivery services, or travel to pick up your puppy.
- Training: Obedience, therapy training, or advanced programs are the applicant’s responsibility.
- Pick of the Litter: Priority selection fees are not included.
- Other Out-of-Pocket Items: Anything not explicitly covered by the scholarship program.
Have questions or need guidance? We’re happy to help you plan ahead. You can also consider Klarna financing for interest-free installments or extended plans, including training and transport.
Eligibility & Process
- Scholarships are awarded case-by-case and provided as a unique code for checkout; amounts vary based on need.
- An approved application and a scheduled interview are required.
- Scholarships are limited by availability; we work with each family to select the best-fit puppy.
- Approved applicants place a deposit on a preferred litter and remain on a dedicated, unpublished scholarship waitlist.
- We may share submissions and photographs online without last names (first names can be changed).
Apply Now
Begin your Red Fern Scholarship application below. If you have questions before you start, contact us—we’re here to help.