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40 veterans will receive companion animal fee free

Bradenton Herald - 6/8/2017

June 08--Nate's Honor Animal Rescue announced it has joined forces with Paws and Warriors to provide fee-waived companion animals to 40 veterans suffering from post traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and other debilitating conditions, through a grant from the Bill and Maryann Vinall Fund of the Manatee Community Foundation.

The "Pets for Vets" program is designed to assist qualified veterans, who are physically and/or emotionally challenged, in finding companion pets to dramatically improve their well-being. Service members returning to civilian life after military duty can find themselves with a host of physical and emotional challenges. Not only can a pet provide love and company to the veteran, but studies also show that physical contact with a pet can lower stress and blood pressure levels and combat depression.

"With this program we are partnering with Paws and Warriors, augmenting the services we both provide," said Karen Slomba, associate director of Nate's Honor Animal Rescue, "We are providing adoptable companion dogs and cats while Paws and Warriors will identify and assess the Veteran's needs and qualifications. It's a perfect pairing."

Each veteran participating in the program will receive a personalized needs assessment by Paws and Warriors, determining what kind of pet will suit their home, lifestyle, and needs. The veteran will then receive assistance from Nate's Honor Animal Rescue's Adoption Team in finding the perfect pet. Grant funds will be specifically used to provide the adopter with: 1. A canine or feline companion with the adoption fee waived; 2. A starter kit to include a crate, leash, collar, and food; and 3. Six weeks of once-a- week offsite training, for dogs only.

Veterans can request an application by emailing LaVonne@pawsandwarriors.com or by phone at 941-962-3390.

James A. Jones Jr.: 941-745-7053, @jajones1

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