Vets For Vets
Serving those who served our country
Affordable access to healthcare--including mental health and veterinary care--in homeless and low-income communities is an incredible need across the country, as is breaking the cycle of homelessness amongst Veterans. We have witnessed both needs firsthand and we are committed to serving those who served our country by taking care of the pets who now serve them. By keeping their pets healthy, regardless of financial status, we are protecting an important source of companionship and emotional support.
When Your Dog Is Your Home
Our “Vets for Vets” initiative focuses on offering free veterinary services to pets of Veterans who otherwise would not have access to such care due to a lack of resources. To achieve this goal we participate in large scale events such as Veteran Stand Downs across the United States.
When Your Dog Is Your Shadow
Shadow, like so many pets of vets, gives Veterans like George the emotional support they need to deal with stress and anxiety that can result in dark thoughts when left untreated. When we told George our plan to help Shadow, tears welled up in his eyes. It is in moments like those when we know we are making an impact.
When Your Dog Is Your Lifeline
The bond between these two beings is something we are committed to protecting. Jon Geller, DVM, the founder of The Street Dog Coalition, puts a finer point on it: "Sometimes for these homeless Veterans, they can have thoughts of suicide, so in a case like this often their dogs are the only thing between them and ending their lives.”
Supported by Rowan
As part of Rowan’s commitment to helping keep people & pets together, we were honored when they asked if they could sponsor Vets for Vets, a cause that’s very important to them (one of Rowan’s co-founders grew up in a military family with a father and brother who both served in the Air Force). For more information on the “Rowan Responsibility”, click here.
Additional Resources for Veterans
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Are you a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one? You're not alone—the Veterans Crisis Line is here for you. You don't have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to call. Access free, confidential support 24/7, 365 days a year.
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Stand Downs are typically one to three day events during which VA staff and volunteers provide food, clothing and health screenings to homeless and at-risk Veterans. In addition, Veterans also receive referrals for health care, housing solutions, employment, substance use treatment, mental health counseling and other essential services. Click here for upcoming Stand Downs. New events are added regularly, so check often for updates.
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Life has its challenges. As a Veteran you don't have to solve them alone. Take the REACH self-assessment to find support that is designed specifically for you.
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VeteransGuide.org is an initiative founded by the Disability Advocate Group, LLC. They provide comprehensive educational materials and direct access to a panel of expert counselors and legal professionals in collaboration with the National Advocates for Veterans Disability Assistance, LLC (NAVDA).
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Click here for access to digital/printable handouts from the VA on a variety of topics including suicide prevention, healthcare, the PACT Act, the VA Mobile App, and more.
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