March 2, 2026
Meet Liberty, a spirited pup turned calm, loving companion with a heart full of affection. Libs was adopted from the San Diego Department of Animal Services in Carlsbad. She had a brief stay there and was returned after being a little too curious around livestock, but it was clear she just needed a job to keep her busy. Full of energy and affection, Libs was a perfect fit for our program, and the shelter staff was thrilled to see her begin a life of purpose.
In December 2018, Libs graduated from our psychiatric service dog program alongside Navy veteran, Aaron, forming a bond that was truly one of a kind. Although she had to retire early from service work due to health complications, Liberty’s desire to have a job and share her love never faded. She joined our Canine Ambassador team alongside her long-time supporter and family of Aaron’s, Mama K, where she continues to brighten lives every day.
Now a calm, older dog, Libs loves to lay down and make herself available for anyone looking for a cuddle. She melts for chin scratches and often nudges hands, gently inviting the next person to share in her warmth. Libs spreads comfort, joy, and calm wherever she goes, proving that love, patience, and a gentle spirit can make a lasting impact at any age.
Meet Angus, a remarkable dog with a heart as big as his adventurous spirit. We adopted Angus in August 2020, and he sailed through our psychiatric service dog training program with flying colors. After graduating alongside his veteran handler in 2021, Angus returned to our care when his handler was no longer able to care for him. He met several veteran applicants in search of a new match, but due to a medical need requiring regular allergy treatments in a home setting, team member Andres stepped in to give him a forever home.
Since then, Angus has thrived. With Andres, he’s learned new skills—including how to skateboard—and has found a safe, loving space to call home. The pair have now become a certified therapy dog team, dedicated to serving the community and raising awareness for veterans’ mental health and the power of animal rescue.
Angus shines as a breed ambassador, sharing his love, joy, and calm presence wherever he goes. You might spot him giving “high paws” to friends and supporters during community visits, always brightening the day of everyone he meets.
Meet Hunter, a sweet and gentle giant Great Pyrenees mix who has been volunteering with the Shelter to Soldier Canine Ambassador team alongside his human handler, Anahi, since 2023. Hunter is as lovable as he is fluffy, and true to his name, he leaves a little “glitter” everywhere he goes—reminders of his soft fur and cuddly nature.
Hunter has a special way of connecting with everyone he meets. He loves to lean into affection, soaking up pets while giving back comfort in return. His calm, patient demeanor makes him a favorite among veterans, active-duty service members, and families alike. Whether he’s visiting community events, sharing quiet moments with someone in need, or just spreading joy with his presence, Hunter embodies warmth, love, and gentle strength.
Follow his adventures on Instagram at @mygreatpyreneesnamedhunter, where his playful spirit, cuddles, and trademark “glitter” are always on full display. Hunter proves that even the biggest dogs can have the biggest hearts, leaving lasting impressions wherever he goes.
October 12, 2023
Meet Tito, a golden retriever with a heart as big as his fluffy coat and a permanent spot in everyone’s heart. As a cherished member of the Shelter to Soldier Canine Ambassador team, Tito has mastered the art of spreading comfort and joy wherever he goes. He is the ultimate snuggle buddy and will happily sit with you for hours, content as long as he’s getting pets and affection.
At events, Tito often takes on the role of a patient greeter, lounging calmly while keeping a watchful eye for the next person who might need a little comfort or just wants to share some love. His gentle and easygoing nature makes him a favorite among veterans, active-duty military, families, and children alike. Tito has a way of putting everyone at ease with his soft eyes, relaxed demeanor, and warm personality.
Whether he’s offering comfort during visits, spreading joy at community events, or simply enjoying a well-deserved cuddle, Tito embodies everything a therapy dog should be. His calm presence, loving spirit, and unwavering patience make him an indispensable part of the Canine Ambassador team and a shining example of how a dog’s love can touch lives.
March 13, 2023
Meet Nala, a golden ray of sunshine and the ultimate snuggle buddy! Since joining our Canine Ambassador program in September 2022, Nala has been spreading joy and comfort wherever she goes. She lights up when it’s time to work and loves meeting new people at special events, from Paw Squad games at Petco Park to community gatherings. Nala has a heart as big as her love for pets—she will happily curl up and fall asleep as long as someone keeps stroking her soft fur.
Her incredible personality is shaped by her amazing family. Her mom, Bri, is a dedicated nurse, and her dad, Bill, is a recently retired U.S. Navy SEAL, giving Nala the perfect mix of loyalty, courage, and compassion. Whether she’s offering comfort, showing off her gentle charm, or just melting hearts with her puppy eyes, Nala embodies everything a Canine Ambassador should be and more.
Meet Moose, the first member of our new Shelter to Soldier Canine Ambassadors therapy team. Moose was generously sponsored by the Petco Foundation to become a psychiatric service dog for a veteran in need. After graduating from the program in 2019, Moose worked alongside his veteran handler for several months, helping him thrive and heal.
When life circumstances changed and his handler became the primary caregiver for his special needs child, it became difficult to continue caring for a service dog, despite the incredible support Moose provided. Moose returned to our program so he could continue making a difference, and he has now transitioned into a Canine Ambassador role as a therapy dog.
Moose brings his gentle heart and calm presence to multiple roles. He serves the HSC-4 Black Knights Squadron and assists with Military Sexual Trauma counseling alongside his handler, Petty Officer First Class Thomas Moore, US Navy, a Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) victim advocate for service members throughout San Diego.
As part of the Shelter to Soldier Canine Ambassadors therapy team, Moose provides visits of comfort, affection, and joy across Southern California. Each therapy team supports a variety of needs, including visits with active duty military personnel, veterans navigating trauma, military families while their loved ones are deployed, and community partners. Moose’s calm demeanor, dedication, and love for service continue to make a lasting impact wherever he goes.
October 28, 2022
Harley is a lively and lovable German Shepherd mix who came to her forever home from the Escondido Humane Society in 2017. Since then, she has become one of the fluffiest and most enthusiastic members of the Shelter to Soldier Canine Ambassador team. Harley has a true passion for learning and picks up new tricks quickly, always motivated by a tasty treat. She can even whisper on command and has shown off her skills in the doggie Olympics where she proudly earned a silver medal.
Harley is not just smart and agile, she has a heart full of joy. She loves meeting new people, especially kids, and has a special way of making everyone around her smile. Whether she is showing off her tricks, enjoying playtime, or spreading happiness through her ambassador work, Harley’s playful spirit, curiosity, and love for learning make her unforgettable and a favorite to all who meet her.