Where did you serve and what did you do?

I am an Army combat vet. I served in Iraq May 2003-July 2004 as an Army Engineer.

Tell us how your dog is helping you continue Still Serving in your community.

I work for Canine Partners of the Rockies (an ADI accredited non-profit) as their Development Director, and volunteer as a service dog puppy raiser. I raised my first dog, Parker, who graduated and now works in a counseling center for kids, and am currently raising my second dog, Bodhi. I also lead and promote Canine Partners of the Rockies’ veteran programs – helping place dogs with veterans living with disabilities as well as facilitating therapeutic dog visits for veterans living with traumatic brain injuries at local clinics and facilities serving veterans in Colorado. During their 2 years of training, these dogs help me feel confident, comfortable and calm as they go everywhere with me while I navigate daily life – making them invaluable for me, as well as the person they’ll eventually be placed with.

Why do you do it?

I’ve been lucky enough to have dogs all my life, and I’ve found the healing and companionship they provide to be so important for veterans – especially combat vets. I’m working on my Master’s Degree in Social Work so I can continue to work with veterans and dogs through animal assisted therapy. I do this because I love working for Canine Partners of the Rockies, working with vets, and because I’ve seen first-hand how impactful these dogs can be for healing.