Paws for Purple Hearts, one of the foremost charities that help Americas Warriors, was selected as one of only two recipients of financial support at the 3^rd Annual Down River Beer Fest hosted by Gavora’s Fine Wine in Fairbanks, Alaska.

We were more than happy to participate in the festival.  The Fest provided lots of good music, fun activities and great fellowship – with people and with dogs!  At the ever-popular event, breweries, wineries, and distilleries from all over Alaska showcased their fine beverages, with modest samples served in adorable souvenir tasting glasses.

For the Fest, we brought Melik, a service dog in training. He helps dozens Veterans and Service Members with Canine Assisted Warrior Therapy® and will eventually be placed with a Veteran or Service Member permanently as a service dog.  Melik made lots of new friends and brought joy to all!  Interesting factoid: the happiness people get from petting a dog (or even just looking a dog in the eyes) has been scientifically confirmed.  Here’s the science part: Being around a dog releases oxytocin, also known as the ‘love hormone.’ This hormone provides a long list of physical and psychological benefits, including feelings of security, perceptions of belonging, improved blood pressure, and even reduced post-traumatic stress symptoms!

We are so happy that Gavora’s Fine Wine selected Paws for Purple Hearts as one of two organizations to give their generous donation to.  They know how important it is to support Paws for Purple Hearts in our work to improve the lives of America’s Warriors facing mobility challenges, post-traumatic stress and/or traumatic brain injuries by providing the highest quality service dogs and canine assisted therapeutic programs.

If you are a Veteran or active duty Service Member interested in applying for a service dog, please consider filling out an application. If you are a Veteran or Service Member that would like to participate in Canine Assisted Warrior Therapy®, please consider filling out an application. All of PPH’s services (and service dogs) are provided at no cost to our past and present military family.

Help by becoming a volunteer

Our volunteers are the heart within the heart. From walking dogs, to helping at events such as the First Friday, to even becoming a puppy parent – we couldn’t do it without them!

Help by donating

More than 95% of PPH fundraising money comes from patriots like you making the committment to support mission. Please consider donating to help meet the goal of having a facility within two-hours driving distance to more than 80% of the Veteran population. Your contribution large or small makes a difference in the lives of Veterans.