Supporting Veterans Today and Every Day

Friends,

When I think about the people in our community, I think of service-minded leaders with integrity and grit — characteristics shared by military veterans. It’s no wonder so many veterans, and family members of veterans, call NVA home.

Whether they practice medicine, guide our business, or supervise puppy play days, veterans are vital to our team. They bring unique perspectives and skills; they know the value of a mission. Veterans make NVA better.

That’s why we’re deeply committed to supporting service members year-round. Across this community, our people tap into their own talents and ways to give back to those who gave so much to our country.

At PetSuites Pearland, the team trains homeless dogs to support veterans with PTSD.

Through a partnership with Paws for Heroes, rescue pup Atticus arrived at PetSuites ready to serve. But Lead Trainer Kymee Bair had her work cut out. Atticus knew very little – not even his name. After ten weeks of socialization and behavioral training, Atticus learned the necessary skills to support his new veteran owner.

“Veterans deserve the love canine companions give,” says Kymee, whose father served in the military. “Using my skills to help veterans is truly a gift.” Today, Kymee remains part of Atticus’ family, and PetSuites Pearland continues training shelter dogs to love and empower veterans.

PetSuites lead trainer Kymee with Atticus and his new veteran dad, Spike.

Leader Heights Animal Hospital honors service animals with an annual K-9 Veterans Day event.

Activities include an awards ceremony, K-9 skill demonstrations, recognitions from Pennsylvania state representatives, live music, food, and lots of pampering service dogs. Proceeds from the annual event support K-9 training, equipment, and supplies. Additionally, the team provides cost-free preventative care for 9 veteran canines year-round.

In 2018, the team unveiled a memorial garden for dogs who died in the line of duty. “This event provides an opportunity to recognize incredible animals who give their lives for us,” says Hospital Manager Crystal Bear. “It means so much to the handlers who worked closely with the dogs and loved them like family.”

K-9 Edik and his handler were one of many honored at the event in March.

Paris Hill Cat Hospital launched “Vets for Vets” to fight hunger among veterans.

In the U.S., 130,000 veterans experience homelessness, and four million veterans and their families don’t have enough to eat. Moved by these statistics, the team held a donation drive that collected nearly 600 pounds of food for Feed Our Vets, a nonprofit that fights veteran hunger.

“For us, supporting veterans is personal,” says Hospital Manager Jamie VanDyke, whose husband served in the military. “Veterans and family members of veterans serve on our team.” After an impactful launch, Vets for Vets remains active: A donation box lives in the lobby, staff volunteer to stock pantries, and future food drives are in the works.

A food pantry in New York State stocked by donations to Feed Our Vets.

NVA Compassion-First teams provide cost-free specialty and emergency care for veteran dogs.

Like their human counterparts, military dogs can incur injuries in combat and suffer severe health challenges after completing their service. Through a partnership with American Humane, many doctors, technicians, and support staff in the NVA Compassion-First family help ensure four-legged veterans get the care and treatment they need.

In addition, these teammates donate their personal time, energy, and expertise at no cost to the owner or handler. After years of courageous service, these lifesaving heroes deserve to live free of pain and retire in comfort.

These four stories are among many in our community.

As a veteran myself, I feel immensely proud to work among people who welcome veterans and ensure their sacrifices are not forgotten. When I returned from Desert Storm, I wanted to continue a career in service and help others grow and find fulfillment in their lives. That journey led me here to NVA and allowed me to serve a new mission — well after I served my country.

To everyone who uses their talent and time to give back to those who served, thank you.

I hope you all take time today to thank a veteran in your life.

With gratitude,

Turpin