Tim & Zoey's Story
Zoey came to me in an extreme time of need, not just my need but hers. I learned very quickly that as long as I was kind to her she would look me in the eyes and take away any hurt I had. I could talk to her about stuff that I saw as a paramedic and she would just look at me without judgment and I would feel better. Sitting there and just petting her made me feel better. She was a shelter dog so she needed me too so I feel it was a win win.
Stephanie & Josie's Story
"Bringing a fur baby into your life, of course brings happiness, but improves mental and physical health. Being a disabled combat woman veteran, wife and just an adult, all of those “jobs” bring a whole world of stress, fear, mental and physical battles. Josie Wales was brought into my life through the “Rescue a Hero” program through VFW Post 12215 with exceptional training by Tim Guzman at Blue Collar K9 Training. With Josie’s training, I am able to be physically active within my disabilities without struggling with commands. She instinctively knows when I have an anxiety attack and provides me comfort or forces me to be social, as she wants to meet everyone she sees. I feel confident when I take her to the office or fire camp, that she will be respectful and patient through meetings or presentations, she knows that she is “working”. Josie can light up a room with her happy smile and tail wag. She insists on greeting everyone at the office first thing in the morning, she is usually received with “Oh I needed some emotional support” or “you’re the best thing to happen to me this morning”. Not only did Tim and Bill save a wonderful dog, but she also gave her the tools to bring happiness, love and fur to everyone she meets. I am truly blessed and saved by her gentle soul."
Thank you,
Stephanie Meckler
Robert & Smokey's Story
My name is Robert, and I have been a firefighter/paramedic for over 20 years. I met Bill while working at the fire station and he told me about the Rescue A Hero program and how they provided service dogs or companion dogs for First Responders and Veterans. I wasn’t sure about getting a new dog but knew it wouldn’t be just a dog. Well, I was given a new friend and family member. Smokey and I instantly became best friends, and he is the biggest, happiest dog I have ever had. He has been a great addition to our family with my wife and three young kids. When I get home from a long shift, he is always happy to see me and often pulls me from whatever stress or grief I have brought home from work. I also catch up on sleep while at home and he is often my napping partner. On behalf of my family and myself, we would like to thank The Rescue A Hero program and Blue Collar K9 Training for Smokey!
Thank you,
Robert Sinetos
Becca & Zuko
Zuko is the sweetest pittie boy in the world. Though he can be a little shy at first, he warms up quickly—and once he does, it’s impossible not to fall in love with him. He’s a happy, always-smiling pup who’s ready for any adventure, whether it’s a quick errand, a mountain hike, or a spontaneous road trip. Zuko is all in. He plays hard, sleeps even harder, and is the ultimate snuggle bug. Even though he’s only been with us for three months, he’s already become the perfect addition to our family. 💗
As a veteran living with PTSD, Zuko has brought a huge amount of peace, joy, and emotional support I didn’t know I was missing. His love is healing in ways words can’t fully capture, and the happiness he brings into our home is immeasurable. We look forward to loving and spoiling him for many years to come! 💙🥹
Thank you,
Becca Berggren
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