It is an honor to introduce Tony Wedeward and his amazing organization, Annabelle Acres, to all of you. I’ve known Tony and his family for several years, and falling in love with them doesn’t take long. Their love for their family and Labradors is evident in everything they do. I hope you enjoy reading their story as much as I have enjoyed sharing it with all of you.

Meet The Wedewards!

 

Tony Wedeward and his wife Jackie reside on six country acres outside Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. Jackie & Tony were married at Holy Hill in 1998 and have been blessed with two children – Ben and Caroline. Their son, Ben, graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a degree in Neurobiology and is at Indiana University working on his Doctorate in Optometry. Their daughter Caroline is earning an Education degree at Marquette University and plans to be an Elementary School Teacher while helping children with Autism.

In 1986, Tony graduated with an Industrial Technology degree from the University of Wisconsin – Platteville, and in 2019 he earned his MBA at Marquette University. Tony spent 31 years in business development at Enerpac – the Global Leader in High-Pressure Hydraulic Equipment based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His career at Enerpac took him to over 25 countries, working alongside hundreds of wonderful co-workers, suppliers, and customers.

After 31 years, he knew he wanted to do something completely different, utilizing his business development and personal skills to help others. Six months after an early retirement from Enerpac, in 2019, he left his comfort zone and started Annabelle Acres – a non-profit Labrador Retriever Adoption Organization.

 

About Annabelle Acres

 

Annabelle Acres is dedicated to transitioning Labrador Retrievers recently retired by licensed breeders and finding them a perfect Wisconsin home. Annabelle Acres provides veterinary care, weight management, and socialization rehabilitation before placing them in carefully screened, loving “furever homes.”

Tony Wedeward and his family at Annabelle Acres work tirelessly to ensure that each dog is given the best possible chance at a happy life. They provide ongoing support and resources to adoptive families. Their adoption fee includes a month’s supply of kibble, vitamins, and preventative medications to help new dog owners ease the transition and bond with their new furry family member.

Since its inception in 2019, Annabelle Acres has rehomed over 100 Labs, and the organization continues to grow. Tony’s passion for helping dogs and his commitment to excellence have made Annabelle Acres a valuable asset to the animal welfare community in Wisconsin and beyond.

Tony’s love for his family and dogs has inspired him to make a difference in our Wisconsin communities. Annabelle Acres is a shining example of the good that can come from following your heart and pursuing your passions.

 

Annabelle Acres & Their Adopters!

 

When one of the labs is ready for adoption, they search for a Wisconsin family with the appropriate background and capabilities to provide a loving home. They are committed to providing the best care possible for these Labrador Retrievers.

The majority of their adopters are seniors, military veterans, families, and first responders. What he loves the most? He gets to spend every day with Labrador Retrievers. Tony and his family started Annabelle Acres to give back to their Wisconsin community by providing Labrador Retrievers a second chance at life. Annabelle Acres is one of the most popular adoption organizations in the Midwest.

 

How to help Annabelle Acres

 

Annabelle Acres is a 501-c3 non-profit organization not affiliated with any national organization. The operations of Annabelle Acres depend heavily on the donations received through our website. They are very grateful for any assistance you can make to Annabelle Acres. Every dollar helps. They thank you in advance for your kind generosity.

 

Tony Wedeward & His Community

 

Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?

Jackie and I love to go to Palmer’s Steakhouse in Hartland, Wisconsin. Their food and drinks are outstanding, and everyone appreciates your business. It is a wonderful experience.

Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?

I have lived in Oconomowoc for over thirty years and enjoyed every minute.

Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?

Father John Yockey – our priest at St. Jerome’s for almost twenty years. He passed away in 2021. I have never met someone with such an incredible passion for helping people. He touched our family’s soul, kindness, and love of life. My family will never forget him.

Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?

As our community grows, I support any of our family-owned small businesses.

Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?

Our community is large enough to keep us busy but small enough to find peace and solitude when needed.

Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?

We are writing early-reader children’s books about the stories of Annabelle Acre’s adoptions. We have already started on the concept.

 

FOR FUN!

 

Q:  How did Annabelle Acres come up with their name?

Our name comes from our beloved Annabelle, who we lost several years ago. She was a full-breed Yellow Labrador Retriever that loved to meet everyone.

Q:  What is one of the hardest parts of your job?  

Saying goodbye to our Labs on “Happy Tails Day,” however, we know they are going to a loving home. It is hard not to cry.

Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?

I like to watch documentaries about the history of our country. I especially appreciate documentaries about World War II. What certain people have done to statues and monuments is very sad. Our veterans and their families should be revered and live comfortably. They have earned it.

Q: What advice would you give to people?

Lou Holtz once said, “Life is very simple – you need something to do, you need somebody to love, you need somebody to believe in, and you need something to hope for.” This statement has always stuck with me.

Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?

Gary Sinise – He founded the Gary Sinise Foundation. They serve our nation by honoring our defenders, veterans, first responders, their families, and those in need. I like meeting anyone passionate about making a difference in our communities.

Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?

A Labrador Retriever – Only a Lab can go to a party, speak to no one, steal food, fall asleep, and still be the most popular guest.

Q: Who inspires you to be better?

My Dad – Our first fifteen Annabelle Acres Google Business Reviews were five stars except one of them. It was a four-star and was given out by my father. I asked him why, and he said, “You can always do better, Tony.”

 

Where to Find Tony Wedeward & Annabelle Acres

Annabelle Acres Incorporated
39796 Golden Lake Park Rd
Oconomowoc, WI 53066

Website: www.annabelleacres.org