Kentucky Veterans Going to the Dogs (and Cats) with Program to Boost Second Chance Pet Adoption

Not-for-profit Pets for Patriots partners with the Kentucky Humane Society and Jefferson Animal Hospital East to help U.S. veterans honorably adopt and care for at-risk shelter pets.

Louisville, KY, January 27, 2011 --(PR.com)-- Pets for Patriots, Inc., a not-for-profit that connects shelter pets with U.S. veterans, wounded warriors and service members, is joining forces with the Kentucky Humane Society to increase the adoption of adult and other at-risk shelter animals. Jefferson Animal Hospital East will offer discounted veterinary care to dogs and cats adopted through the Pets for Patriots program.

“Kentucky Humane Society is proud to join the Pets for Patriots program,” says Lori Kane Redmon, KHS President and CEO. “We are honored to help veterans in our community find a lifelong friend.”

Notes Redmon, KHS provides shelter, foster care and adoptions to over 6,000 dogs and cats each year. “We strive every day to find loving homes for the deserving animals in our care, and the focus of this program will give many of them a second chance at a great life. This partnership is an excellent way to bring awareness to our mission and say “thank you” to those who served our country. Our men and women returning from service need the unconditional friendship and love these animals will provide.”

In support of the charity’s mission to make military pet ownership affordable, Jefferson Animal Hospital East in Louisville will extend a generous, ongoing 15% discount off all veterinary fees for any eligible dog or cat adopted through the Pets for Patriots program and brought to their facility for veterinary care. The hospital is accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), a Pets for Patriots national sponsor.

“Pets for Patriots is important to us because working in the veterinary field, we see the need for adoptions and are aware more than anyone that euthanasia rates are higher for adult pets, large dogs and special needs pets,” says Dr. Patricia Kennedy, founder of Jefferson Animal Hospital. “We’d like to bring attention to the importance of the human-animal bond and assist the military community and their families.”

Individuals are eligible from any United States armed forces and at any stage of their careers: active, reserve, retired or veteran, as well as those transitioning to civilian life. Eligible pets must meet one of three criteria: an adult dog or cat (two years and older), dogs over 40 pounds regardless of age, or special needs dogs and cats. Joining Pets for Patriots is entirely free to veterans.

“Our focus is hard-to-place pets that we know can be excellent companions to our veterans and service members, if given the chance,” says Beth Zimmerman, founder and executive director of Pets for Patriots. “Working with Kentucky Humane Society and Jefferson Animal Hospital East we can help these animals find a loving home, and make pet ownership more affordable for the men and women of the U.S. military.”

Those interested in the program must first apply through Pets for Patriots and provide proof of their military service. Approval typically takes a day or two, after which veterans can visit the Kentucky Humane Society for assistance in choosing their new best friend and Jefferson Animal Hospital East for high-quality, reduced cost veterinary care.

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About Pets for Patriots
Pets for Patriots, Inc., is a registered 501(c)(3) charity that helps military members honorably adopt adult and at-risk shelter pets. Its mission is to consistently give the gifts of fidelity, joy and companionship to both pet and person. Pets for Patriots is one of the only organizations in the country dedicated to both adult pets and military members. The charity is a proud member of the Army AW2 Wounded Warrior Program national community support network, a national partner of the Real Warriors Campaign and is listed by the National Resource Directory for ill and wounded veterans. Visit www.petsforpatriots.org for more information.
Contact
Pets for Patriots, Inc.
Beth Zimmerman
877-473-8223
www.petsforpatriots.org
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