As Veterans Day approaches (Nov. 11), thoughts turn to those men and women who served our country. And at Humane-Beings, of course, thoughts also turn to the dogs who serve veterans.
Because most shelters do not allow animals, many veterans are forced to choose between staying with their pets on the streets or entering a shelter and leaving them behind. More than 32,000 veterans experiencing homelessness—and their pets—lack access to basic supplies for safety and daily survival.
To make matters worse, rising costs of living are making it harder for many veterans to adjust to civilian life. Between housing, groceries, healthcare and pet supplies, there simply isn’t enough money to go around. Veterans are often forced to choose between caring for themselves or their pets.
Emergency packs from Greater Good not only provide essentials like clothing, blankets, toiletries and water bottles, but those with pets also can receive pet food, toys, leashes, collars, flea/tick medication and more—helping veterans and their companions stay safe and together.
Just $25 or $50 can send an emergency pack and pet essentials to a veteran in need.
Freedom Service Dogs of America not only helps veterans, but shelter dogs, too. This charity focuses heavily on liberating rescue dogs and custom-training them for veterans with PTSD, as well as neurodevelopmental conditions in youth, and adults with orthopedic disabilities. They have a four-star Charity Navigator ranking and place their dogs at no cost to the recipient.
Patriot Paws provides support dogs to veterans and first responders for free. They’re an Assistance Dogs International accredited organization. Their well trained pups bring life, hope and independence to those emotionally and physically scarred men and women who have stepped up selflessly to serve.
