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BOWE's Story
Bowe's buddies Is All About Second Chances. Just Ask Bowe.
Bowe’s Buddies was founded on one simple belief: every animal deserves a second chance. And no one embodies that more than Bowe himself.
Bowe’s story began in July 2020, when his mother—young, sick, and heavily pregnant—was brought into a local shelter. She gave birth to seven kittens in the safety of the shelter, but like many facilities overwhelmed by intake numbers, there were no foster homes available right away. By the time a foster spot opened, only two kittens were still waiting: Bowe and his sister Peach.
Peach was healthy, happy, and quickly adopted. But Bowe had a different path ahead of him. He was born with Radial Hypoplasia, a congenital condition that caused underdevelopment of the bones in his front legs. His physical difference meant he needed someone with experience, patience, and the kind of love that sees beyond limitations.
He found all of that—and more.
What started as a foster placement turned into a forever home. And Bowe didn’t just find safety and care—he inspired the entire mission of Bowe’s Buddies. Today, Bowe’s Buddies is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting animals just like Bowe: those who need extra care, time, and compassion to thrive. We partner with the Allen Animal Shelter to recruit, train, and support foster volunteers who provide temporary homes for cats and dogs in need.
Our work ensures that animals don’t have to wait in overcrowded shelters or face euthanasia because of space or medical needs. Instead, they get the chance to heal, grow, and prepare for their forever homes—just like Bowe did.
Today, Bowe lives with our founder and continues to inspire everything we do. He plays an active role in welcoming new foster pets into the home—offering comfort, companionship, and calm to animals who are often scared and unsure. Bowe is more than our namesake; he’s a gentle guide and a daily reminder of what a second chance can truly mean. He reminds us daily why this work matters. He’s living proof that with a little patience and a lot of heart, even the most overlooked animals can become someone’s everything.
A Message From Our Founder:
Beth Bodden Felker
I have been an animal lover since as long as I can remember. Bowe’s Buddies is a dream come true—after lots and lots of hard work. In 1994, I fostered my first litter, and I continue to this day. I have personally witnessed the positive impact that fostering has on the lives of homeless animals. Bowe’s Buddies will expand the number of animals receiving foster care, and it would not be possible without the help of so many people. Thank you for joining me on this journey!
