Laurie + Trooper

We adopted Trooper from our friends at Labs & More under the generous Red Star Sponsorship of Logomark in February 2023. Trooper, then an older puppy, was a very affectionate pup with a soft and calm demeanor. He enjoyed the training program and loved all of the “good boy’s” he received from his trainers every day. Trooper is among the fastest dogs ever to graduate our program, going home with his veteran handler only 9 months after being adopted!

Laurie is a US Army veteran who served as a military police officer in Germany. During her time, she developed bouts of anxiety and hypervigilance which transferred into her life post-service. When joining our program, Laurie wanted a dog that matched her very active lifestyle, but that had the calming presence she was searching for. She and Trooper instantly connected and strengthened their bond through their weekly handler training lessons.

“She (Shelby) advocated for me so much and I don’t know where I’d be without him (Trooper). I had so many issues and things that people don’t see. People don’t see what we go through and the things that go on in our heads. This program was really special to me and it was totally worth it. I would’ve done it 5 days a week to get Trooper home sooner.”

Laurie & Trooper celebrated their graduation and culmination of their journey together on December 15th, 2023 alongside Laurie’s family and the Logomark team.

“I was a military police officer while on active duty and then transferred to civil affairs in the reserves. I served 15 years and got out as a Major. My favorite part about the military was the incredible training events I helped plan and execute, and the camaraderie that goes along with doing difficult things with fellow soldiers. I received numerous medals and awards, but the one I am most grateful for is the Bronze Star. I served as a battle captain during OEF and was awarded the BSM for my responsibilities running the night operations at the detention facility. I also enjoyed jumping out of airplanes! I had a difficult time readjusting to civilian life and it manifested as anxiety and hypervigilance. I tried to self–medicate with alcohol, but over time, that made things exponentially worse. Even when I stopped drinking, I was on overdrive with so much anxious energy, I would have nightmares or freak out in a store without understanding why. A TBI led me to support services, which is how I found Shelter to Soldier. Trooper has helped make my emotions and life more manageable. I used him during my therapy homework sessions, which helped me progress in areas I was having a hard time in. He brings a smile to my face when I become overwhelmed, and he has a calming and loving presence when I am feeling anxious. The gift of these dogs to us veterans in need is invaluable. I am so grateful for those who donate and support and make it possible for us to have access to something so life–altering. Thank you all! Please do not hesitate! This program is incredible, the trainers are so knowledgeable and helpful, and everyone involved made the experience and my time training there very special. I had no idea a dog would completely change my struggles and how I was navigating the world after the military. Trooper has helped calm all the chaos in me, and there is hope for anyone feeling the same!”

-Laurie & Trooper