Paws And Stripes Helps Veterans Forge New Life After Service

December 29, 2017 – Thousands of veterans call New Mexico home. For vets who are struggling with injuries or challenges related to their service, the transition to civilian life can be difficult. Paws and Stripes in Albuquerque is a local organization that’s getting a lot of national attention.

The core of the program is matching veterans up with dogs from shelters and putting them both through service training. The dogs can help vets manage a range of emotional and physical needs. And both the dog and veteran have an opportunity for new adventures out in the community. The program also offers mental health counseling and the camaraderie of staff and graduates who can relate to what veterans are going through.

Producer Sarah Gustavus visited Paws and Stripes earlier this year to learn more about how the program works.