Are you a military veteran who would like to adopt a dog or cat? Or do you know a veteran who could benefit from the companionship of a pet?
HSforBC is participating in the national “Pets for Patriots” program, which pairs former enlisted men and women with eligible shelter animals. This partnership enables veterans to adopt pets at the reduced rate of $75 for dogs and $10 for cats.
“Our shelter is honored to offer the ‘Pets for Patriots’ program in our county,” said HSforBC executive director Susan Austin. “It is a wonderful opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to military veterans for their service.”
“Pets for Patriots” participants receive adoption discounts from the program’s shelter partners, save on their new pet’s ongoing medical care with discounted fees from veterinary partners, and enjoy members-only savings on everyday supplies, pet insurance, pet food and other benefits.
Best of all, veterans receive the priceless gift of unconditional love from a companion dog or cat.
Veterans need to live within 40 driving miles of a participating shelter or rescue organization partner, have completed a minimum of 190 days of military service not counting basic or active duty training, provide official proof of their service in a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, and have demonstrated honorable character during their enlistment. They also must be approved by “Pets for Patriots” before adopting a dog or cat.
Eligible pets meet one of the following requirements—be at least 2 years old, have been homeless more than six months, may have special needs and dogs weigh at least 40 lbs.
“Boone County has over 3,200 military veterans,” said Laura Slick, a member of HSforBC’s Board of Directors and a Cat Program volunteer. “This program is a great way to not only support a veteran and help them find a ‘furever’ friend, but also help out some of the most deserving dogs and cats in local shelters.”
HSforBC Dog Program volunteer Bruce Jarrett, who is helping coordinate this partnership, said he is “truly excited for us and hope we can be a great partner for our shelter pets and the veterans.”
For more information, log on to https://www.petsforpatriots.org/partners/humane-society-for-boone-county/
