February was the month of love as Valentine’s Day falls on the 14^th. Our dogs spread their love to Veterans and Active Duty Service Members all year around, but this past month of February was extra special for our Virginia site. On Valentine’s Day, a very wonderful girl graduated as a Facility Dog! Can you guess who it is?? If you guessed Patsy, you were correct!

Patsy, a golden retriever, joined our Virginia site as a 12 week old ball of fluff. Throughout her couple of years here, she has impacted the lives of many Warriors and other members of the community. From Social Therapy to our innovative Canine Assisted Warrior Therapy^TM sessions, she is one that no one will forget. Even when we bring our current service dogs in training for therapy visits, some of the patients ask if Patsy is with us. She will be missed by many, but has moved on to her new career path and will do great things.

Patsy was placed with a Texas Military Department SHARP team to support survivors of sexual assault. She is now known by the staff as the little nugget who brings joy to everyone! Patsy did not just gain a new mom, but a new best friend. Her new handler will be taking Patsy to work each day to help support survivors coming in for their appointments. What is more welcoming than a smiling golden retriever??

From us to you, Patsy, we wish you great success in your new career and we are confident in the life-changing therapy you will provide. To all of the Veterans and Active Duty Service Members who interacted with Patsy, thank you for all you have done!

Meanwhile back at our Virginia site, our General Volunteers helped to decorate for Valentine’s Day. The dogs are adorable. Don’t forget to “Like” us on Facebook to keep up with all the dogs at our site!  And remember, if you want to Volunteer, just click here to start the process.  Donations also help, so please give generously to do your part to ensure we can bring our life-changing therapy and assistance dogs to Warriors in need.