Study Proves Veterans And Pets Can Help Each Other Heal

Recently, the year’s annual $3 Shelter Challenge closed. The challenge involved every individual who took it on to mail $3 – or more – by placing it in an envelope and sending it to a charity of their choice.

In 2015 when it began, the challenge’s donations totaled $1,100, and last year in 2016, that number reached $4,221. This year, one participant, John Maragliano of the Catholic War Veterans Post 1937 of Pine Bush, couldn’t pick just one shelter to send $10 to. So he chose all of them. In all of the envelopes, he included a personal letter – one that offered help should the shelters ever require it.

Part of the reason that Maragliano’s generous deed is so touching is due to the common ground that returning veterans with PTSD and pets share. Research has suggested that these veterans’ recovery can be greatly helped by having pets.

That’s why a wide array of shelters offer reduced or even free adoptions for veteran applicants who are approved to take in pups or other animals. Many more are attempting to implicate that into their systems as well. Some rescues even welcome any veterans who would like to volunteer at the shelter and spend time helping with the animals.

Pets for Patriots is a national nonprofit organization that does just that. It aims to help veterans and pets be paired together. It helps both human and animal get better and find a companion who loves them dearly! It can also help veterans who suffer with PTSD, depression, or suicidal thoughts.

So if you’re a war vet and want to adopt, seek out shelters who will help with that process! Don’t forget to like and share away!

Feature Image Source: Melissa Maragliano