Community Corner
Rescue Group Offers 'Pets For Vets'
LifeLine Animal Project wants to pair homeless pets with war vets in November by waiving dog and cat adoption fees for former and active duty military.
Nov. 11 is Veterans Day and LifeLine Animal Project in Avondale Estates decided to do more than simply wave the American flag.
The non-profit wants to be a friend by offering a friend to the men and women of the armed services. A furry friend, to be exact, from their Dog House or Kitty Motel, where they rescue and rehabilitate homeless pets.
Figuring that the loyalty of a pet and the loyalty of America's military deserved to come together in some way, LifeLine is dubbing November as "Pets For Vets Month" at their no-kill shelter and will waive all adoption fees for military personnel, past and present.
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“We are all deeply grateful for the brave men and women who put themselves in harm’s way for our sake,” said Blythe Randolph, board chair for LifeLine.
“We wish them renewed happiness here at home and for current and former military who wish to make a pet part of their lives, we hope they will find a new four-legged friend and family member at LifeLine,” she continued.
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The offer is extended to men and women from the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, National Guard and all Reserve units.
There are several national organizations that specialize in matching pets with veterans and offering trained therapy dogs to military men and women traumatized by the tribulations and stresses of war.
While LifeLine is not afflilated with these groups, they say they are supportive of all ways to help America's military during and after the long struggles overseas.
"Our dogs are not registered therapy dogs, but to an extent all dogs are therapy dogs," said Debbie Setzer, LifeLine's community outreach director. "Having a pet is therapeutic and good for your health and well being."
Potential pet parents must fill out an application form online or in person and meet LifeLine's standard criteria for owning a pet. The adoption fees of $80-$120 are waived for those who present a military ID or discharge papers to adoption staff.
All dogs and cats offered for adoption through LifeLine are spayed or neutered and current on their vaccinations. Dogs who have been at the shelter for any length of time also receive some basic obedience training.
To learn more about LifeLine's programs and the Dog House and Kitty Motel go to www.lifelineanimal.org. To inquire about adopting a pet during "Pets For Vets" month, contact adoptions@lifelineanimal.org.
