Cody Dustin, K-Von and Christopher Dustin

K-Von from Last Comic Standing appeared in the Rose Room last week and raised $1,000 for Tucker’s Gift, a nonprofit organization that helps people with HIV/AIDS care for their pets. Cody Dustin said that was quite a boost in revenue for them.

Dustin said he and his husband started the organization over drinks in 2015 when they realized no one offered help to people with HIV/AIDS in caring for their pets.

Tuckers Gift provides veterinary care and even pet food for people with HIV/AIDS who can’t afford it. Applications must come from caseworkers at one of the agencies providing other services for that client. Those participating include Resource Center, Prism Health, AHF and AIN, among others.

“Once we get the client’s application, we give the client the info for the vet,” Dustin said. The client makes the appointment, and the vet calls Tucker’s Gift for payment.

Currently, only dogs and cats are included.

Last year, the organization helped about 110 clients with shots, spaying and neutering, blood work and surgeries.

Tucker’s Gift is all-volunteer, so everything donated goes directly toward pet care. Money doesn’t come from grants but is raised instead entirely through fundraising efforts, such as the upcoming Top Dog Fashion Show.

Currently, they’re working with one vet in the Richardson area who discounts his services for the group. They’re looking for additional vets in Dallas to send clients to.

Dustin said the location of the vet they’re using hasn’t been a problem yet, but transportation could be an issue for some future clients.

In addition, they’re looking for more volunteers and board members to work with Tucker’s Gift.

Companies like Petsmart have provided toys and dog beds, and Hollywood Feed has raised money for the group by taking pet photos with Santa at Christmas. On Aug. 26, Tucker’s Gift has its next fundraising event — Top Dog Fashion Show at Sue Ellen’s at 6 p.m.

“Dress up your dog and come have fun,” Dustin said.

Donations will be taken at the door.

He said clients of any of the AIDS service organizations who have put off veterinary care for their pets because they’re on a tight budget should contact their caseworker to apply for services through Tucker’s Gift.

“We have the money,” Dustin said. “It needs to be spent.”

Anyone interested in volunteering should call Dustin at 214-985-7297.

— David Taffet