Halia is a 2 year old pit mix we adopted from San Diego Department of Animal Services Bonita Shelter. She is gentle and cuddly, but still energetic and focused enough to really enjoy working. She has a really great smile that lifts us all.
Halia’s adoption, care, housing, training and future placement with a veteran through our program was generously sponsored by Northrop Grumman.
Halia is over the moon to be officially graduated with her veteran handler, Angelito Bautista, U.S. Navy as of December 2020, and the feeling is mutual! Lito shares of his partnership with Halia, “We are so happy to officially welcome Halia home, making 2020 Christmas Eve extra special. This was made possible through the efforts and dedication of the Founders, Training / Support Staff, and Volunteers from Shelter to Soldier as well Northrop Grumman’s generosity (Halia’s Sponsor). 2020 has definitely been a unique and challenging year for all. Thankful for Shelter to Soldier’s foresight – making the necessary adjustments to ensure Staff, Veteran, and Service Dog in Training’s safety were at the forefront.
Other Success Stories
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Edgar + Bandit (ESA)
After serving in the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division, Edgar found himself struggling with loneliness and a need for companionship. His daughter recommended our Emotional Support Animal program, where he was matched with Bandit, a sweet rescue from Labs & More. Since graduating together, Bandit has brought joy, companionship, and a renewed sense of purpose to Edgar and his family.
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Chelsea + Bodie
When Chelsea first came to Shelter to Soldier, she had a simple goal for her future service dog: she wanted to feel like she could get back to living a more “normal” life. As a United States Marine Corps Veteran, Chelsea is used to being independent and staying active. She loves hiking, running, traveling, and […]
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Jeremy + Luna
Georgia
On June 28th, 2017, US Marine Veteran Jeremy Engle and his service dog, Luna, graduated our program! This goofy girl had a hard start to her journey with STS. She was found by a friend of Shelter to Soldier™ as a stray on the streets of Tijuana, suffering from severe mange and malnutrition. Once Luna […]