A lifetime of unconditional love. Trust, steadfast loyalty and devotion. Anyone who has been blessed to have a dog will tell you that the things dogs share with us are the greatest gifts we could ever receive. And sometimes, a dog’s legacy of love lives on even after they have crossed the Rainbow Bridge.
For twelve years, a beautiful German Shepherd named Bodj shared her love, loyalty and zest for living with her family. When Bodj’s dad Sir Paul was diagnosed with ALS, she went above and beyond to comfort him. Bodj actually saved her dad’s life on four documented occasions!
When Bodj passed away, the family was devastated. She had left huge paw prints on their hearts. They looked for a meaningful way to honor her caring spirit and intelligence yet be of practical use. Through the SPCA, they created the Bodj von Grunfeld scholarship to help those pursuing higher education in the field of animal welfare. Each year, a deserving student is awarded $500 towards their education. This year, the scholarship was doubled to $1000.
After receiving many amazing applications, Aliena Kennedy was selected as the 2024 recipient of Bodj’s scholarship. Aliena is pursuing a Veterinary Technology Diploma at Olds College of Agriculture and Technology in Olds, Alberta.
Aliena has always loved animals. She shared “My first pet was a cat named Terr and she was truly the best. She was incredibly patient with me, especially since I was quite young when we got her. Even though she was a farm cat, she lived an amazing life—she made it to 15 years old. Terr was the most cuddly and affectionate cat, loving everyone she met. She was my first real connection to animals, and from then on, I knew they would always be a huge part of my life.” 
I asked Aliena when she recognized her calling to veterinary medicine. “I think I always knew,” she said. “When I was in kindergarten, I told my teacher I wanted to be a vet. At the time, I didn’t even know vet techs existed! At 16, I started volunteering at Heaven Can Wait animal rescue, and that was when I truly realized how much I loved being around animals and learning about their care. At 18, I got my first veterinary job at Guardian Veterinary Centre and then at Avian and Exotic Veterinary Services. I didn’t care how long the days were—helping animals and educating their owners felt like a dream come true. Later, I volunteered at a wildlife rehabilitation centre. Every hands-on experience taught me something new and solidified my passion for this field.”
The scholarship in Bodj’s memory resonated deeply with Aliena. She stated “Bodj’s story is incredibly touching, and it really highlights the profound impact that animals have on our lives. Reading about Bodj’s intelligence, loyalty, and deep connection with her family reminded me of my own pets and how much they shaped my love for animals. It’s inspiring to see her legacy live on through this scholarship, supporting those of us who have dedicated our lives to animal care.”
In the second year of her Vet Tech Program, Aliena’s studies are going well. “The program is definitely challenging, but I love it,” she related. “At first, I was hesitant about going back to school at 25 because I thought I’d be older than most of my classmates. But once I started, I realized that people in my class ranged from 18 to 45, and that made me feel a lot more at home. I chose Olds College because of its condensed 16-month program – I didn’t want to spend extra time away from doing what I love. Looking back, I think if I had started this program at 18, I might have felt discouraged by how tough it is. But now, I’m much more focused and determined, and I know this is exactly where I’m meant to be.”
Aliena is actually thinking about pursuing higher education to become a veterinarian after graduating. She shared “While studying at Olds, I learned about St. Matthew’s University, which offers a fast-track program that allows students to become a veterinarian in just three years. Knowing that there are pathways to continue my education makes me really optimistic about the future. I’ve worked with a wide variety of animals, but I’m really interested in zoo animal medicine and I’d love to expand my skills in that area.”
I asked Aliena what she finds to be the most rewarding part of becoming a Vet Tech. “Seeing an animal recover from a serious illness or injury is one of the most rewarding feelings in the world,” she replied. “Animals can’t speak, but they communicate so much through their actions, and it’s incredible to witness their resilience. I also love being able to support both the animals and their owners, helping them understand what’s happening and guiding them through difficult situations. Even the smallest acts of kindness—like making an anxious pet feel safe—can make a huge impact.”
Bodj’s scholarship has been an incredible help to Aliena financially, especially in such an intense and fast-paced program. She noted “It allows me to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress, which makes a huge difference. More than that, it’s inspiring to know that Bodj’s legacy is supporting students like me who are passionate about animal care.”
Aliena is deeply grateful to Bodj’s family for creating this scholarship. She explained “It’s clear from Bodj’s story that she was an extraordinary dog, and I think it’s beautiful that her love and dedication live on by supporting future veterinary professionals. The family’s generosity is making a real difference in the lives of students like me, and I hope to honor Bodj’s memory by continuing to provide compassionate care to animals.” 
Inspired by Bodj’s scholarship, Aliena intends to ‘pay it forward’ in the future. “I know firsthand how much of an impact this scholarship has had, and I’d love to be in a position one day to help others in the same way,” she said. Whether it’s mentoring future vet techs, donating to scholarship programs, or volunteering even more, I want to give back to the profession that has given me so much.”
Aliena encourages others to pursue a career in animal welfare, particularly in these times when we are facing a shortage of veterinary professionals across the country. “If you have a passion for animals, go for it—but be prepared for hard work,” she stated. This field is emotionally and physically demanding, but it’s also one of the most rewarding careers out there. There will be long days, difficult cases, and heartbreaking moments, but knowing you’re making a real difference in the lives of animals and their families makes it all worth it. Also, never stop learning! Veterinary medicine is constantly evolving and staying curious and open to new knowledge will help you grow in your career.”
Aliena also encourages others to apply for Bodj’s 2025 scholarship. She exclaimed “Do it! Scholarships like this not only help financially but also serve as a reminder that people believe in your passion and your future in this field.”
To find out more about the Bodj von Grunfeld Scholarship or to apply for this amazing opportunity, click here.
If you would like to honor the life and memory of a treasured pet and explore the establishment of a scholarship that lets their legacy live on, please reach out to the NS SPCA for help.
Did you know that the NS SPCA College of Animal Welfare offers a Veterinary Assistant (VA) program? It is unique among other VA programs in that students receive more hands-on experience. And stay tuned for information on a new Registered Veterinary Technology (RVT) program and be the first ones in line to apply. For more info on both programs, click here.