Perfectly Paired: Shelter Dogs for Veterans

Both our veterans and shelter animals have been through traumatic events, but together they can help each other heal.

Many of our brave soldiers have returned home with physical and emotional injuries that have made it difficult to transition back to normal civilian life. Some estimates state that as many as 20% of returning military veterans suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Medical studies have shown that companion animals significantly improve mental and physical health, reducing stress, depression, and anxiety symptoms experienced by many serving in the military. According to the ASPCA, 6-8 million dogs and cats are abandoned at shelters in the U.S., and more than half of these animals are euthanized because there is no one to adopt them.

Help heal the emotional wounds of military veterans by pairing each one with a shelter dog specifically matched to his or her personality. Professional animal trainers rehabilitate the dogs, which are otherwise facing euthanasia, and teach them good manners to fit into the veteran's lifestyle. Training can also include sensitization to wheel chairs or crutches, as well as recognizing panic or anxiety disorder behaviors.

You can help. $15.00 provides chew toys and training treats. $30.00 covers kibble for one month. $100.00 covers one adoption fee.

Pets for Vets provides a second chance for both our returning veterans and needy shelter dogs. These animals can make excellent companions but might not have that chance and our brave soldiers receive a second chance at health and happiness. The bonds of friendship formed between man and animal have the power to ease the suffering of our troops when they return from overseas.