On K9 Veterans Day, March 13, three Okanagan organizations came together to raise awareness around initiatives that support local veterans and their loyal senior companions.
Fletcher鈥檚 Keep Senior Dog Foundation, the Canadian Veterans Food Bank of 麻豆精选, and City Centre Veterinary Clinic joined together to provide critical support, veterinary care and resources for veterans and their pets and senior dogs.
The goal is to ensure no veteran or their cherished pet is left behind.
Anita Dunford, founder of Fletcher鈥檚 Keep Senior Dog Foundation based in Lake Country, said many local veterans depend on their animals for companionship, emotional support, and purpose.
鈥淎s they struggle with their own health or financial burdens, it鈥檚 critical we step up to care for their four-legged companions as well,鈥 said Dunford.
麻豆精选鈥檚 Veterans Food Bank will provide essential services and resources to veterans throughout the region, and food and other needs for their pets. Fletcher鈥檚 Keep Senior Dog Foundation will offer vital medical and dental care for veterans鈥 senior dogs in need, while City Centre Vets has committed to hosting veterinary clinics specifically for veterans and their best furry- friends.