08/26/2026
Yesterday, the world lost a model of kindness that can never be replaced, with the passing of country music legend, business woman, and philanthropist, Dolly Parton. Her kindness and compassion, are qualities every humane organization should strive for as we work to help animals and the people who love them.
Known and loved by generations for her music, Dolly's legacy extended far beyond the stage. Dolly had a lifelong love for animals, often putting her star power to work for those in need. Understanding that dogs thrive on love, attention, and companionship, Dolly lent her notoriety, and wealth, to animal welfare efforts encouraging people to remember the importance of the bond we share with our canine companions.
Her compassion was perhaps best captured when a lost dog was found near one of her concerts in 2014. Dolly shared the pup's story with her millions of followers on Twitter in hopes of finding her family, and even offered to give her a loving home herself if no one came forward. Thankfully, with a little help from Dolly, the pup was reunited with her family!
Dolly also turned her love for animals into another way to give back in 2022. Through Doggy Parton, her line of dog apparel, accessories, and toys, a portion of proceeds supported Willa B. Farms Animal Rescue, helping provide displaced animals with care and a safe place to land.
Dolly’s most noteworthy philanthropic effort was the creation of the Imagination Library which has provided more than 300 million books to children under five-years old around the world. Dolly knew that being able to read was key to children fulfilling their dreams.
The Rhode Island SPCA believes the same, our Humane Education Program serves more than 3,600 students each year through its various curriculums, including Books with Beans. To honor Dolly, and thank her for inspiring kindness and compassion, the Rhode Island SPCA is gifting a copy of the childrens’ book “Love Me Gently” to the first 80 children who stop by to visit our shelter animals. If you’d also like to give a child the gift of reading, please consider a donation to Dolly’s Imagination Library here: https://donate.imaginationlibrary.com/
Dolly Parton, the world will always love you ❤