Pet adoption to benefit combat vets and shelter pets
Boots and Paws is among a series of countywide events to honor veterans who have served in combat, while finding animals a forever home.
Ralph Duarte, Sr. Veterans Representative for Riverside County, walked home with a newly adopted puppy.
“It’s a friendship for us that we desire, we need. A lot of us are dealing with behavioral issues, post traumatic stress disorder, trauma from war. By having a support system, like this companion here, my new dog, it helps us move forward to know that there’s someone there to give us that love,” Duarte said.
According to the U.S Department of Veteran’s Affairs, veterans who suffer from post traumatic stress disorder may find benefits in owning a dog. While clinical research is still being tested to support that claim, the veteran’s we spoke to agree.
“Veterans go through a lot that the average person doesn’t go through. It’s an emotional roller coaster, if you will. An animal that you can bond with gives you a sense of companionship and relief,” said veteran, William Irwin.
The adoption event was hosted by newly appointed Supervisor, Manuel Perez. In partnership with the Riverside County Departments of Animal Services and Veterans’ Services.
“During this time of year, we’re pretty slow in our adoptions ’cause it’s hot and a lot of people don’t want to venture out. We adopt about five, six, seven (animals) a weekend. But today already having 25 plus is great and we still have a full lobby,” said Deanna Burnett, Chief of Operations at the Coachella Valley Animal Campus.
Adoption fees were waived for the first 25 dogs adopted. The rest were offered at a discounted price.
