National Pets for Veterans Day 2024: When It Is & How You Can Celebrate
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October 21 is a special day. It’s a unique way we can reach out to the brave men and women who have served our country. This day of honor was the brainchild of Clarissa Black, who founded the event and the Pets for Vets foundation in 2009, and it occurs on October 21st of each year. Black observed firsthand how animal-assisted therapy could help vets recovering from their time in service with her therapy dog, Bear.
Up to 51% of individuals who experienced a traumatic event when physically injured suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Many veterans report a reduced quality of life due to flashbacks, insomnia, and other mental issues. Veterans also endure hiring discrimination when employers assume any member of the military has PTSD that could affect their job performance.
National Pets for Veterans Day
National Pets for Veterans DayOctober 21 is all about awareness. It’s about honoring these individuals and giving them the gift of unconditional love and support they knew while serving with an animal companion. There are many ways you can support the organization and its noble mission. Volunteering at an animal shelter is an excellent way to bolster Pets for Vets’ cause and help animals in need of human kindness.
You can also offer to pick up the adoption cost for a veteran’s pet. Many of these organizations depend upon the generosity of donors to keep the doors open to fulfill their mission. You can even donate a care package of toys, training treats, and other pet supplies to a new dog owner. No amount is too small. We also suggest thanking a vet for their service if you see an individual at the store or at work.
The Science Behind Therapy Animals
Animal-assisted therapy isn’t new. Evidence suggests it was a part of Greek and Roman cultures. Its use came to the forefront in 18th-century York, England. English philanthropist William Tuke reformed mental health practices with the York Retreat in 1796. Animal-assisted therapy was a part of the improved treatment and care methods at the facility.
Current research supports the therapeutic use of animals and the mission of Pets for Vets. Studies have shown it can reduce pain, improve social behavior, and lower stress. Even veterans who haven’t suffered an injury can benefit from the unconditional love a canine companion can provide. One study found that having a dog could help lessen the chances of developing cardiovascular disease.
When Pets for Vets matches an individual with a pet, they are literally giving that person the gift of life.
The Mission of Pets for Vets
The goal of Pets for Vets is to connect individuals with the right pet for them using their Super Bond practice. The organization goes the extra mile to ensure the fit between the veteran and the dog. They spend time getting to know the people and the animals to make the best match for both. The pair receives training to nurture the human-dog bond. The organization has over 650 success stories.
Final Thoughts
National Pets for Veterans Day is an excellent way to honor our military personnel with a gift that can help anyone struggling to return to civilian life. It’s the least we can do to thank those who have put so much on the line to keep our country free and safe. We think every day should be Veterans Day if only to recognize someone’s service to the nation.
Featured Image Credit: Don Patterson, Pixabay
