“K9s For Warriors” has been such an awesome organization for me. Throughout my military career, I experienced events that took a toll on me physically and mentally. K9s For Warriors rescues dogs, trains them for 6+ months, and pairs them with veterans who are struggling to live a somewhat normal life. K9s has taken on the mission to help reduce suicide rates by pairing veterans with a “Battle Buddy”. K9s makes the process very easy for the veteran; it doesn’t cost the veteran a single cent. K9s covers all costs, including the three weeks where the veteran stays on the K9s for Warriors campus to learn how to work with their new service dog. During those three weeks, we were provided a gift card to cover lunches, and volunteers (House Moms) brought us home-cooked meals every evening. The volunteer House Dads dropped off some meat to BBQ on one of the weekends. During the three weeks there, the only money I spent was when I wanted to spoil my new battle buddy and bought him some toys. It is a really great bonding experience.
My battle buddy’s name is Rio. He is awesome! Before Rio, it was very difficult for me to go anywhere that would have large crowds. I would leave very early in the mornings or very late at night to try and reduce my chances of being in a crowded place. Rio is trained with key commands and responses to make going into crowds easier than before. He is trained to “watch my 6”, which means he watches behind me to ensure no one approaches me from behind. He knows how to distract me from specific triggers and keep me moving. Rio is truly my best friend and the best battle buddy ever!
K9s For Warriors relies on the donations they receive from the public and those who sponsor them. Their efforts to help veterans all around dealing with mental struggles at a $0 cost to them are just amazing. I ask, from the bottom of my heart, that people support this amazing organization by donating to them. The donation pairs a battle buddy to a veteran that is struggling with PTSD, Anxiety, and other mental disorders. Let’s help them by helping K9s for Warriors!
To donate, click here.