National Pets for Veterans Day is observed annually on October 21st. It honors the healing bond between military veterans and companion animals, highlighting how pets can assist veterans transitioning back to civilian life. 

The observance was founded by animal behaviorist Clarissa Black, who started the Pets for Vets program in 2009 after witnessing the positive effect her dog, Bear, had on veterans during hospital visits. The date marks the beginning of the movement to pair veterans with rescued pets. 

How companion animals help veterans

• Healing emotional wounds: Pets can provide unconditional love and companionship, which helps reduce the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and loneliness.
• Building trust: For veterans who have experienced trauma, forming a trusting relationship with a pet can be easier than with another person.
• Providing a sense of purpose: Caring for a pet gives a veteran a renewed sense of purpose and a daily routine, both of which are critical for readjusting to civilian life.
• Promoting physical activity: Pets like dogs encourage more exercise and outdoor activities, which can help improve overall mental and physical health. 

The Pets for Vets program

The non-profit Pets for Vets organization uses a unique matching process called the “Super Bond” to pair rescued shelter animals with veterans. 

• The organization’s trainers conduct an in-depth interview to understand the veteran’s needs, personality, and lifestyle.
• The trainers then select a shelter animal whose temperament and personality are a good match for the veteran. The process focuses on saving the animals most in need of a second chance.
• After the match is made, the animal receives training to help it thrive in its new home.
• The veteran receives the trained animal at no cost, along with ongoing support from the Pets for Vets team. 

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