A night of generosity unfolded as nearly 80 guests from Wellington and Palm Beach gathered to honor man’s best friend at the American Humane Pups4Patriots Cocktail Party on Thursday, Jan. 11 at the National Polo Center.
This program offers critical support to the U.S. Armed Forces through the provision of lifesaving service dogs for veterans grappling with post-traumatic stress and/or traumatic brain injury.
The event featured inspirational remarks from Dr. Robin Ganzert, the president and CEO of American Humane, who took the opportunity to extend recognition to philanthropist Lois Pope, founder of the Lois Pope Life Center for Military Affairs, which includes the Pups4Patriots program. In another poignant moment, the Humane Hero Award was presented to Coleman Natural Foods for their steadfast support.
“Many veterans struggle with post-traumatic stress or traumatic brain injuries. For some, medications and therapists are simply not enough to help restore a sense of normalcy,” Ganzert said. “There is no pill or therapy session that can put a smile on a vet’s face like a wagging tail. We want every veteran to know that they do not need to face this battle alone. Man’s best friend can help.”
To date, American Humane’s Pups4Patriots program has delivered 207 healing leashes into the hands of U.S. military veterans, all at no cost to them, thanks to the generous support of donors who recognize the impact of this program.
Among the highlights of the evening were two Pups4Patriots teams: Joni and her service dog Bella, as well as Dottie and her service dog Annie.
For additional information on the Pups4Patriots program and the impactful stories of Joni, Bella, Dottie and Annie, visit www.americanhumane.org/program/military.
