They pair rescue dogs (that they train at no cost to the veteran) with the person suffering from PTSD or TBI. The veteran and dog essentially end up saving each other's lives, such a simple yet powerful concept.
I met the co-founder, Jim Stanek in Albuquerque, NM when I was there a couple of months ago on active duty orders for the Navy. I was drawn to his own story and how his rescue dog became his loyal friend and defender, constantly "watching his back."
These companions are trained to deal with each person's specific issues, and being on alert for them is a trait that someone with PTSD might need.
I talked to Jim almost every day that I was in town, each time growing more impressed with the work Paws and Stripes does, even meeting a couple of vets and the dogs that were paired together. What's amazing is that they become legitimate service dogs, and they go everywhere with their owners.
I am still in awe of the genuine work Jim and his team are doing for those that sacrificed for our freedom, and returned home with "invisible wounds" and lives that will never be the same.
I look forward to do doing anything I can to assist them in getting sponsors and donations so they can continue giving comfort to dogs and veterans.
