Smooch A Pooch is taking over the Ohio Union’s Great Hall Art Gallery today. Students will be able to meet the loving animals who help our military veterans. If that didn’t catch your attention, then their doggy kissing booth will.
The event is presented by Pets for Vets On Campus, a student organization that supports both the national non-profit and Columbus chapter of Pets For Vets. The organization works to pair veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury and depression with rescued shelter dogs. Pets For Vets then works with the rescued dogs to help them meet the veteran’s personal needs. The animals are a source of unconditional love, truly making a difference for many.
Pets for Vets On Campus at the 2014 Homecoming Parade
The goal of Smooch A Pooch is to showcase the benefits companion animals can have for returning veterans. Additionally, Smooch A Pooch seeks to create awareness of the challenges faced by returning veterans. According to the U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs, up to 20% of veterans who served in Iraq & Afghanistan are diagnosed with PTSD each year. Three to four million cats and dogs are euthanized in shelters each year. This is a pairing that makes an impact in the lives of veterans and their animal counterparts, man’s best friend some might say.
Make sure to stop by today sometime before 6 p.m. to interact with the animals and learn more about the immense benefits they provide to our returning veterans. Do you have a favorite memory of animals making an impact on you? Please share with us in the comments!
Student holding a lovable pup.