Southgate girl's 'Cookies For Canines' feeds dogs in need

SOUTHGATE, Mich. – A 12-year-old girl's desire to volunteer got her in the kitchen to give back.

Sydney Robinson, of Southgate, is making a difference in her community one dog treat a time.

"I have three pets and I love the bond I have with them," she said. "I want to help other animals that aren't as fortunate as mine."

That passion for animals is what drove Sydney to want to volunteer at her local animal shelter. At the time she was just 8 years old and, sadly, didn't make the cut.

"We asked a friend of ours who volunteers and we learned Sydney had to be 16 years old before she could help," said Sydney's mother, Kris Robinson. "So we came up with a new plan because my daughter wasn't going to take no for answer."

Instead of volunteering, Sydney started her own business. Mom found a recipe for homemade dog treats and they started baking.

That's how Cookies for Canines was born.

"You start by making the dough," said Sydney. "Some pumpkin mix, eggs and flour."

Equipped with her dog bone cookie cutter, Sydney has been filling orders since the summer. They sell their homemade treats through their Facebook page and word of mouth. A $2 donation gets you 6 of Sydney's homemade treats.

But the key to Sydney's success is her generosity. Every penny she earns in sales goes straight to Down River Animal Shelter.

"Just the fact that someone her age wants to help us is phenomenal," said Animal Control Officer Aaron Bertera. "The money she gives us goes to making sure these animals have the food and care they need until they find their forever home."

So far, Cookies for Canines has raised over $113 for the shelter and Sydney has another $113 on deck (must be her lucky number).

"I just love animals," the 12-year-old told Local 4. "I want to help those who need it."

This 7th grader doesn't plan on slowing down – she also makes handmade toys for dogs & cats and is hoping to expand to making cat treats in the future.

If your pup wants some of Syndey's homemade treats, here's where you can place your order.