Our Purpose

Sometimes purpose finds you in the most unexpected, and heartbreaking, ways.

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Tethered By Grace was born from both deep experience and profound loss.

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Jessica Tritz, founder of Central Wisconsin Bernedoodles, built her life around raising, training, and placing dogs with intention, care, and integrity. Through years of dedication, she developed not only a respected breeding program, but a deep understanding of the impact dogs have on the lives of the families they join.

But everything changed with the devastating loss of her beloved dog, Alexa, following a routine spay surgery.

In that moment of grief, it became clear that her purpose was meant to be something greater than breeding alone.

Out of that loss came a vision: to create something that would protect, educate, and advocate, not just for dogs, but for the people who love and rely on them.

At the same time, Stephanie Skrede, a guardian home owner, mother of four, and breast cancer survivor, was experiencing firsthand the powerful, healing connection between dogs and people.

What started as a simple connection through a shared love of dogs quickly became something much bigger.

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A shared belief.
A shared purpose.
A shared calling to do more.

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Together, Jessica and Stephanie founded Tethered By Grace Inc with a vision to change the dog world as we know it, by raising the standard of care, strengthening ethical practices, and building a community rooted in compassion, education, and connection.

They believe wholeheartedly that the right people are placed in our lives for a reason, and that belief is reflected in the board and community that has formed around this mission.

Each member brings unique experience, perspective, and heart, united by a shared commitment to doing better for dogs, for families, and for the future of animal welfare.

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What We Believe

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• Dogs are more than companions—they are connection, healing, and purpose

• Education and ethics should guide every decision in animal care

• Families deserve support, transparency, and trustworthy resources

• Community creates lasting impact

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Our Vision

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To create a world where every dog is raised, trained, and placed with intention—and every family is supported, educated, and empowered through the journey.