WASHINGTON, D.C., October 31, 2024 — On October 14-16, American Humane, the country’s first national animal welfare organization, joined Ultra Intelligence & Communications (Ultra I&C) at the Association of the United States Army Conference (AUSA) Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. to help spread awareness about the Pups4Patriots Program.
At AUSA, American Humane proudly highlighted the profound impact of Ultra Intelligence & Communications’ generous support to hundreds of attendees and vendors, showcasing how our collaborative efforts have helped make a difference in the lives of so many veterans and service dogs.
Pups4Patriots is a lifesaving initiative that finds dogs in search of forever homes and trains them to be service animals for veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS) or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Mike—who built a career in law enforcement after serving in the U.S. Armed Forces—joined with his four-legged companion, Justice, at AUSA from October 14-16. Mike and Justice, alongside longtime American Humane supporter Ultra I&C, shared their journey in the Pups4Patriots Program with military members and defense industry attendees from around the globe.
“Many courageous military heroes return to civilian life and face another difficult challenge,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane. “Some veterans come home with invisible wounds of war that can lead to a challenging day-to-day life. Thankfully, service dogs like the ones in our Pups4Patriots Program, can be lifesaving to veterans. Thanks to the support of sponsors like Ultra I&C, we can provide them with the tools they need to thrive, including a wagging tail.”
“Our sponsorship of American Humane and their Pups4Patriots Program is a testament to our commitment to supporting veterans in meaningful ways,” said Jon Rucker, CEO of Ultra Intelligence & Communications. “We take immense pride in contributing to initiatives that make a tangible difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for our country.”
Veterans struggling with the invisible wounds of war are too often left to deal with the debilitating symptoms of PTS or TBI alone. That can lead to depression, social isolation and, tragically, suicide. Research shows that service dogs can be incredible companions to our returning heroes, helping to reduce stress and anxiety levels, mitigate depression, ease social reintegration, provide comfort, and restore confidence.
That’s what the Pups4Patriots Program is all about. American Humane offers exceptionally trained service dogs to veterans in need, at absolutely no cost to the former service member. American Humane oversees intensive hands-on training sessions to cultivate the important connection between the veteran and his or her new service dog. The program has provided companions and training to more than 200 veterans across the country, with the support of donors and sponsors like Ultra I&C.
To learn more about the Pups4Patriots Program and how service dogs help veterans in need, please visit americanhumane.org/initiative/service-dogs-for-veterans-and-first-responders-pups4patriots
