We founded Paws for Heroes in 2013 when I learned there was no organization in Houston helping rescue homeless dogs that could be trained to serve as emotional support animals for veterans. Back in 2013, 22 veterans were committing suicide, every day.  Houston also has a terrible animal overpopulation problem which means dogs are euthanized every day because shelter space is limited. Paws for Heroes gives veterans a second chance at happiness and gives dogs a second chance at life. In addition, my brother is a combat veteran and my father served in the Vietnam War.

I am the Executive Director and with the help of 2 other volunteers, we interview the veterans, search at local shelters and rescues for dogs, transport the dogs, and conduct fundraisers year-round.  After the dogs are trained (by professional dog trainers who only use positive reinforcement) and placed with the veteran, we stay in touch with the veteran for life to ensure the veteran and companion dog are set up for success.

Our program is currently temporarily closed because we do not have enough fosters to care for dogs coming into our program. Fostering is a maximum 4-week commitment (because the veteran has already been approved). The foster families are also invited to meet the veteran after they receive their companion dog. The veteran is always grateful to meet the foster and thank them for opening up their home to care for their dog.

For more information on fostering, go to pawsforheroes.com/faq 

Interested in fostering? Email jessica@pawsforheroes.com