Loyal Pets for Loyal Vets

This month, joined the network of veterinarians around the country participating in Pets for Patriots. This non-profit organization helps to connect service men and women and their families with loyal shelter pets.

“It literally was one of those lightning bolt ideas -- it occurred to me that we could really transform two lives,” Beth Zimmerman, founder and executive director of Pets for Patriots, told Patch.

Founded in January 2010, Pets for Patriots has grown to include partnerships in cities across 30 states. In Connecticut, Pets for Patriots is active in Stamford, New Milford, Bolton, and Essex.

“We serve active duty members of the military and veterans who are long since separated from service. We even have a 90 year old World War II veteran," Zimmerman said. "A lot of folks tell us that their animals keep them active and more socially engaged, even for vets that suffer from PTSD, a pet can give them a sense of calm."

In addition to that initial partnership, Pets for Patriots helps ensure that these bonds will last for the animal’s lifetime.

“Short-term financial hardship is the number one reason that people give up pets, and this was even before the financial downturn. It’s not just about getting last-chance pets into good homes, but minimizing the chance that they’ll end up back in a shelter,” Zimmerman said.

Participants, called member patriots, receive discounted veterinary care. High Ridge Animal Hospital extends an ongoing 20% discount to all Pets for Patriots eligible dogs and cats adopted through Outreach to Pets in Need (OPIN). Participants also receive direct financial support in the form of an annual gift card for pet food and other necessities. The organization can also help with unexpected vet bills if an animal needs surgery or another pricey procedure down the road.

"Pets for Patriots encourages the bond between pets and their owners, and this is just a small recognition of the sacrifices these folks make to maintain our security and comfort," Dr. Jack Garman, veterinarian and owner of High Ridge Animal Hospital, said. "With the dedication they show their country, I am 100% positive they will show the same dedication to a pet in need!"

Pets for Patriots places dogs and cats that would be difficult to adopt, this includes animals over two years old, dogs over 40 pounds, and special needs animals. OPIN currently has several dogs that fit this criteria and can help match participants with their perfect new pet. One Stamford Pets for Patriots eligible dog is Barley, a golden retriever/ shepherd mix who has been in the for four years.

“He’s just an outstanding dog. He's so calm that he may not receive as much attention at adoption events as more boisterous pets,” Zimmerman said. “This dog is so deserving of a home, every dog is, but no animal should have to live in a shelter for four years -- he’s done his time.”

Military members at any stage of their careers are eligible to participate in Pets for Patriots at no cost. Interested veterans apply online through Pets for Patriots to show proof of service, typically receiving a confirmation within a day or two. With confirmation in hand, veterans in our area can work with OPIN to choose a pet and with the High Ridge Animal Hospital for affordable ongoing care.

"We've done about 45 adoptions, and while that doesn't sound like a lot, that's 90 lives that are truly transformed," Zimmerman said. "A little more than a year ago we had none, and every month we see that number increasing. We're very excited."

The bond between Mario Chiarolanzio, a three-tour Iraq War veteran, and his husky, Kona, is one of Zimmerman’s favorite stories to come out of the first year of the Pets for Patriots program (watch this video account of their story).

“Mario says, “They gave me my best friend,”” Zimmerman said. “Even though circumstances may vary, that really sums up how our member patriots feel. They may not have known that was what they were looking for, but that’s what they found.”