Saving Lives, Two at a Time™
We bring post-9/11 veterans together with trained, rescue dogs to help both recover and move forward.
Shelter to Soldier™ is a CA 501c3 nonprofit organization that adopts dogs from local shelters and trains them to become psychiatric service dogs for post-9/11 veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress (PTS), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and/or Military Sexual Trauma (MST). Our program also places emotional support animals (ESAs) with active duty military, veterans, Gold Star Families and first responders.
The Shelter to Soldier Canine Ambassadors are a team of certified therapy dogs and their volunteer handlers who provide no-cost visits of love and comfort to local military personnel, veterans, and their families.
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Every 69 minutes A US Veteran dies by suicide
On average, 17 Veterans and 1 Active Duty military personnel dies by suicide, every day. They sacrificed everything to protect our freedom, and it’s our turn to give back to them.
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Every Day An average of 1800 dogs are euthanized nationwide
We rescue dogs that are better suited for a life with a job or may otherwise be overlooked, providing them a future with a purpose and a life that is fulfilled by their bond with a veteran in need.
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Kevin + Indy
Successor Team
The Shelter to Soldier team adopted Indy from Labs & More under the generous Red Star Sponsorship of Westlake Realty, their first dog for our program! Kevin dedicated 22 years of service to the United States Navy, serving during the Gulf War and 9/11. His time in the military left him with severe ailments, requiring […]
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Brandon + Poocha Nacua
Successor Team
The Shelter to Soldier team adopted Poocha Nacua as an owner surrender under the generous Red Star Sponsorship of LA Rams, their 2nd dog for our program! Brandon proudly served in the U.S. Army for 7 years and 10 months, with a distinguished career as an Air Assault Field Artilleryman in the 101st Airborne Division. […]
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Autumn + Carlie
The Shelter to Soldier team adopted Carlie from Labs & More under the generous Red Star Sponsorship of Dr. Fred & Kim Pike! Autumn is a proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran who was referred to our program by one of our graduates, Jessica, and her service dog, Wagner. After her time in the service, Autumn […]
Help the Mission
Every dollar helps us fulfill our mission of Saving Lives, Two at a Time.
Supporting our mission allows us to rescue more dogs for our program, and provides the funding we need to support all of their needs from medical care to safe housing over the course of their 12-18 month training program and subsequent training with their veteran handler.
Founding Partners
Red Star Corporate Partners
The Team
Our passionate and dedicated team is made up of animal-lovers, veterans, military spouses, and advocates of dog rescue and veteran mental health. Animal care technicians, dog training assistants, dog trainers, veteran advocates, board members, administrative staff, and dedicated volunteers are passionate about the mission at Shelter to Soldier and being a light to those in need.