January 6, 2026
Dominic, a US Army Veteran, recently found a lifelong partner in Dottie, a sweet and spirited dog whose journey to him was nothing short of special.
Dottie came to us through Wags N Walks in Los Angeles as an owner surrender, leaving everyone who met her puzzled as to why anyone would ever give her up. Soft as a velvet rabbit, full of energy for training and play, and perfectly capable of keeping herself busy, Dottie had met several veterans before. Still, somehow she always seemed to be the bridesmaid and never the bride. Her adoption and training were generously sponsored by the Red Star Sponsor, Vulcan Materials, making it possible for Dottie to find her perfect match.
When the moment came, it was clear something was different. Instead of her usual antics, running around the yard in excitement before greeting someone, Dottie ran straight to Dominic and sat calmly right in front of him. His trainer, Cassie, watching, knew this was no coincidence. It was fate.
Since officially matching on December 14th, 2025, Dominic and Dottie have been focusing on bonding and some basic obedience. It is easy to see that Dominic is a natural dog handler, and Dottie seems to know she has her dad. Together, they are starting a partnership built on trust, play, and plenty of love.
December 30, 2025
We are excited to announce Bean has officially been matched with US Army Veteran, Justin!
Justin first learned about our mission on Veterans Day aboard the USS Midway, and it was not long before his journey with us began. He served a total of 10 years from 2005 to 2015 between Active Duty and the California National Guard, including a combat deployment to Afghanistan in 2012, where his primary duties included providing security during KLE meetings and serving on QRF.
During his first matching session, Justin met Bodie, Charlie, and Bean. Each dog brought something special to the meeting. Bodie had lots of energy but listened well, Charlie was very calm and steady, and Bean was a perfect angel. In a moment that felt especially meaningful, Bean did something completely out of character for her. Instead of entering the yard with her usual full-blown zoomies, she walked in calmly and approached Justin with grace, quietly requesting pets. From that moment on, it was clear there was a strong connection.
Justin shared that he has a large backyard and believes Bean will encourage him to go on more walks, spend more time outside, and stay active beyond his regular gym routine.
At the second matching session, that bond continued to grow. Justin played two-ball with Bean, learned how to properly give the “out” command, and practiced heeling with her before heading out on a walk together. Even when given the option to see Bodie and Charlie, Justin remained confident that Bean was the dog for him. Justin is incredibly excited and ready to dive headfirst into the program. We could not be more confident in this team. Thank you to SD Botox for supporting Bean and helping make this life-changing match for Justin possible!
December 12, 2025
Hi! I’m Laney! I’m a 1 year old pit mix the Shelter to Soldier team adopted from Labs & More under the generous Red Star Sponsorship of Rose Gonzales! I’m a super playful girl who thrives on treats and loves getting pets from all my friends at Shelter to Soldier. From the moment I arrived, I’ve shown boundless motivation to work and have been an absolute joy to train! With my quick learning and sweet personality, I’ve already been matched with USMC veteran, Kieshawn. We’re eager to embark on this new journey together as service dog and veteran!
October 2, 2025
Hi! I’m Rosie! I am a 1 year old lab mix the Shelter to Soldier team adopted from our friends at Labs & More, under the generous Red Star Sponsorship of Vulcan Materials Company! I am a very sweet pup and I love my cuddle time. I’m super energetic and eager to learn making me a great candidate as a psychiatric service dog.
As of September 10th, 2025, I matched with US Navy, veteran, Anthony! Together, we’ll make a great team and finish the service dog program strong!
September 22, 2025
Hi! I’m Maverick! I’m a 1 year old labrador the Shelter to Soldier team adopted from Labs & More under the generous Red Star Sponsorship of TCW Global!
I’m an energetic pup who loves a good game of fetch and will chase after that ball with all my might! After a fun play session, I’m ready to wind down and settle in for a cozy cuddle session. Watch out for my full-body wiggles as this shows just how happy I feel!
I’m excited to have recently matched with US Navy Veteran, Michael! We’re going to go on so many outdoor adventures and I’m the perfect match for him and his family. Follow our journey together on Instagram!
September 3, 2025
Hi! I’m Abigail! I’m a 1 year old lab mix the Shelter to Soldier team adopted from Wags & Walks under the generous Red Star Sponsorship of the San Diego Woman’s Club.
I’m a confident, playful pup who’s always ready for adventure. If there’s a ball on a string nearby, you can bet I’ll be chasing it around like there’s no tomorrow. I’m super food-motivated, so training is a breeze when treats are involved—I’ve been working on my obedience and I’m getting pretty good at following commands! But don’t let my playful side fool you, I’m also a cuddle expert. When the fun is over, I’m always ready to curl up and shower you with love! That’s how I got matched with my new dad and US Army veteran, Mike! Together, we’ll fly right through the program.
July 31, 2025
Hi! I’m Remi! I’m a 1-year-old lab mix the Shelter to Soldier team adopted from Labs & More under the generous Red Star Sponsorship of Vulcan Materials Company!
I’m a sweet girl who loves being around people. I’ve finally been matched with US Navy Veteran, Diana! I’m perfect for her lifestyle given my size as I’ll be out and about a lot (my mom likes to go on boats and is active in the community). We’re in our bonding stage right not but soon, we’ll take and pass the Canine Good Citizen in no time since my mom has been practicing her handling skills with other pups at the Wings of Freedom Campus. I can’t wait to take on this journey with her!
July 22, 2025
Hi! I’m Ernie! I’m a 7-month-old Chocolate Lab Mix the Shelter to Soldier team adopted from Labs & More under the generous Red Star Sponsorship of Veterans Audiology. I absolutely love chasing balls and can’t resist a tasty snack.
Can you believe I’ve already been matched? My new dad is US Army Veteran, Nic, and I’m just what he needs! A pup that can keep up with him on adventures but a pup that is ready to give endless cuddles. I’m excited for our weekly training sessions so I can go home and serve him as a service dog!
July 8, 2025
Hi! I’m Lennox! I’m a 3 year old Labrador Mix the Shelter to Soldier team adopted from our friends at Labs and More under the generous Red Star Sponsorship of the Michelle Mazzoni.
I’ve got a high drive and lots of energy, which means I’m always ready for a challenge. I thrive on structure and focus, and I’m eager to learn new things.
I’m definitely the type of dog who needs an active lifestyle—long hikes, outdoor adventures, and plenty of exercise are right up my alley. I’ve recently matched with US Army veteran, Maria, who has looking for a companion who can keep up wither her on adventures. I’m loyal, determined, and ready to give my all, whether it’s work or play!
May 21, 2025
Hi! I’m Forrest! I’m a 1 year old German Shepherd Mix the Shelter to Soldier team adopted from Calexico Border Paws under the generous Red Star Sponsorship of Suburu. I’m the 2nd dog they’ve sponsored for the Shelter to Soldier program! I’m a big, goofy, and playful pup and I love to bring joy wherever I go.
I’m so happy to share that I’ve been officially matched with USAF Veteran, Donna! We’re the perfect pair, and since we’re in the first stage of training, we’re practicing our basic obedience skills!
Next Page »
