Birdie’s journey with Shelter to Soldier began when her previous owner, recognizing her need for a meaningful role, found our program. On May 2nd, 2023, Birdie joined us, and her enthusiasm, eagerness to train, and sweet personality quickly won over our entire team.
Thanks to the generous Red Star Sponsorship from the Tea3 Foundation, Birdie completed our service dog training program with dedication and heart. While she graduated as a service dog, Birdie’s path evolved, and she found her true calling as an Emotional Support Animal. This role perfectly suits her gentle spirit and allows her to provide the steady companionship Ahmed needed.
Ahmed, a US Army veteran, and Birdie have formed a powerful bond that embodies resilience and healing. Their partnership highlights the transformative power of connection between veterans and rescued dogs—offering comfort, stability, and renewed purpose.
Stories like Ahmed and Birdie’s are possible because of the unwavering support from organizations like the Tea3 Foundation and the compassionate community behind Shelter to Soldier. Together, they are changing lives—one veteran, one dog, one match at a time.
I served in the military in high-stress roles where focus and teamwork mattered deeply. After leaving active duty, I faced challenges that weren’t always visible and sought something to provide grounding and emotional balance. Learning about Shelter to Soldier and their mission of pairing veterans with rescued dogs truly resonated with me.
My emotional support dog (Birdie) has made a significant difference—providing comfort, structure, and calm during overwhelming moments. It’s improved my mental well-being and quality of life in ways I didn’t expect. I’m deeply grateful to the sponsors and supporters of Shelter to Soldier. Your support changes lives—not just for veterans, but for the dogs you rescue.
If you’re considering supporting this program, know that you’re helping veterans find stability, purpose, and companionship, while giving deserving dogs a second chance.
US Army Veteran, Ahmed
Other Success Stories
-
David + Remi
After 10 years of service in the U.S. Navy, including deployments to Afghanistan and the Indian Ocean, David knew he was looking for a trusted “battle buddy” to support him in life after the military. After an earlier match was not the right fit, David remained committed to finding his partner, and that partnership came in Remi, a sweet rescue from Labs & More. Through months of dedicated training, David and Remi built a strong bond, successfully completing their Handler Test and preparing for graduation. Together, they represent the resilience, trust, and companionship at the heart of Shelter to Soldier.
-
Tim + Oliver
The Shelter to Soldier team adopted Oliver from our friends at Labs & More under the generous Red Star Sponsorship of David C. Copley Foundation. Oliver stole our hearts with his puppy-like personality and his endless wiggles. Tim joined the United States Marine Corps in 2001 and served for 21 years. Towards the end of […]
-
Vic + Kira
San Diego, CA
Kira is a loving 4 year old female labrador/pit mix. She was rescued just in time to allow her the opportunity to live a happy, loving and purposeful life.