Edgar + Bandit (ESA)

The Shelter to Soldier team adopted Bandit from Labs & More under the generous Red Star Sponsorship of an anonymous donor!

Edgar is a proud U.S. Army veteran who served from 1995 to 1998. Although he intended to serve longer, extended time away from his family led to periods of depression, ultimately resulting in an early discharge. After the loss of his father, Edgar struggled with feelings of isolation. Thankfully, his daughter Carissa—our lead Animal Care Attendant—recognized his need for support and recommended him for our Emotional Support Animal (ESA) program.

Since completing the program, Edgar has rediscovered a sense of purpose, and his family has noticed a remarkable improvement in his mood. Edgar and his ESA, Bandit, officially graduated on March 29, 2025, during a heartfelt ceremony at our facility, where his daughter proudly presented him with his graduation certificate. Today, Bandit lives at home with Edgar and enjoys daily jogs with the family, bringing companionship, joy, and a renewed spirit into Edgar’s life.

“I served in the Army 82nd Airborne Division in an artillery unit as a
Fire Direction Specialist and a Paratrooper. What led me to seek an
emotional support animal was feelings of loneliness and a need for
companionship. He (Bandit) has brought joy and life again to myself
and my family. Shelter to Soldier is a great organization with a staff
that has so much love for their dogs. If you’re thinking about it,
just come check out Shelter to Soldier and they will help find you a
dog that’s a good fit for you.”

-Edgar & Bandit