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ANIMALS >> CHARITIES FOR DOGS & PEOPLE
HAPPY TAILS
Pawsitive Thinking Charities Dedicated to Helping our Four-Legged Canine Friends W RIT TE N BY C A MERON COBB
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ver three million dogs nationwide end up in shelters annually, according to aspca.org. And for some, it’s the only home they’ve ever had. For many others, it’s the only home they’ll ever have. Thankfully, there are many local ways to get involved in helping man’s best friend. Learn about a few “pawesome” canine charities around town.
Pets and Patriots Foundation Who rescued who? Times two! By finding a home for a shelter dog all the while easing if not eliminating the suffering of a veteran diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, the Pets and Patriots Foundation works to save two lives 44 |
OUR TOWN MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017
at once. With the organization’s mission to “train dogs to become PTSD service dogs for veterans” (according to the organization’s website), this nonprofit helps match vets with life-changing pets. Depending on the era, PTSD affects anywhere from 10 to 30 percent of veterans, according to ptsd. va.gov. While some veterans seek the organization’s assistance with training a dog they already have, many of the service pups are saved from shelters and then trained by qualified members of the organization before being donated to veterans in need. Maintaining a focus on assisting without discrimination, well-mannered dogs of any size, shape and breed are evaluated and, upon program approval, undergo extensive training. These sessions include teaching the dogs behavioral basics and the specific needs of the veteran receiving the animal. All