‘Pistol Helped Me Turn My Life Around’

VFW Post 11575 Life member Dan Hoffman is Still Serving in Columbia, South Carolina, by breeding and donating American Kennel Club (AKC) champion papillons to become therapy or support dogs. Hoffman’s own papillon therapy dog, Pistol, helps him manage daily stress and triggers related to his Post Traumatic Stress (PTS).

“When he senses me getting upset, Pistol knows how to calm me down,” Hoffman said.

Hoffman credits Pistol with allowing him to continue serving in different ways, including by speaking nationally to help other veterans secure VA benefits and support to manage their own PTS symptoms.

“Pistol helped me turn my life around,” Hoffman said. “He’s always by my side.”