The love of a companion animal can make a tremendous difference in the life of a veteran, especially one who is suffering from PTSD.  Chris’ Pets for Vets was created through Annie’s Angels Memorial Fund to honor the memory of Christopher Journeau, who served with the US Army, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry, and 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team while fighting in Operation Iraqi Freedom; and to help raise awareness about PTSD.  Since December 2014, Annie’s Angels’ program, Chris’ Pets for Vets has adopted out nearly 80 companion animals to current and former military families.

Chris’ Pets for Vets works with the Cocheco Valley Humane Society in Dover, NH to pair veterans with a shelter pet by paying 50% of the adoption fees.  Adopted shelter pets can help vets more easily deal with PTSD, help to heal their deep emotional scars, and possibly save their lives.  As Chris’ Mom, Jo-Ann Clark of Stratham, NH states, “The strong emotional bond between a pet and a military vet helps them cope with the stress and struggles of daily life, and lead them down the road to emotional recovery from PTSD.”

Although in the past they have funded 100% of the adoption fees and have worked with additional local animal shelters, this program has been very successful and is currently running low on funds.  If you would like to give back to those who have given so much for our country, as well as help a shelter pet in need of a good home, please donate to Chris’ Pets for Vets.  To learn more about Annie’s Angels’ work helping families cope financially and emotionally with life threatening diseases, please visit their website.