Dr. Robin Ganzert, the President and CEO of American Humane, recognized Philanthropist Lois Pope, founder of the Lois Pope Life Center for Military Affairs which includes the Pups4Patriots program. The Humane Hero Award was presented to Coleman Natural Foods for their steadfast commitment and support of American Humane and the Pups4Patriots program.
Dr. Robin Ganzert stated, “Many veterans struggle with post-traumatic stress or traumatic brain injuries. For some, medications and therapists are simply not enough to help restore a sense of normalcy. There is no pill or therapy session that can put a smile on a vet’s face like a wagging tail. We want every veteran to know that they do not need to face this battle alone. Man’s best friend can help.”
At no cost to them, 207 healing leashes have been delivered to veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces by the Pups4Patriots program so far. Past dedicated donors include The Bradley Hanley Foundation, American Airlines, Lulu’s Fund, Ethos Veterinary Health, and the Miter Foundation.
The night included Joni and her service dog Bella, as well as Dottie and her service dog Annie.
Joni found hope through the Pups4Patriots program for her PTS and found Bella. Since welcoming Bella into her life three years ago, Joni attests,
“No talk, no pill, no great exercise plan – indeed no person—has done more for me than has this one pup. She is worth her weight in gold. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for advocating for those of us who have served.”
Like many, Dottie’s PTS and TBI symptoms intensified during the challenges of COVID, and it was during this time that she found Annie, who now de-escalates many possible panic attacks.
“I will continue to say that Annie is the best kind of medication and treatment that I have been given. I am grateful to American Humane and hope many more veterans can be partnered with service dogs.”
Founded in 1877, The American Humane has been First to Serve™ the cause of animals and for 145 years has been at the forefront of virtually every major advance in the humane movement.
More than one billion animals across the globe each year are orchestrated by American Humane. It is the United States’ first national humane organization and the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare.
