WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, August 3, 2020 — American Humane, the country’s first national humane organization, today announced its inaugural Pups4Patriots 5K. This virtual run will take place from August 31 to September 7 and help fund American Humane’s lifesaving Pups4Patriots™ program.
For many brave members of the armed forces, coming home as a civilian is only the beginning of another daunting battle. The invisible wounds of war, including Post-Traumatic Stress and Traumatic Brain Injury, can cause debilitating symptoms in veterans, leading to depression, social isolation and, far too often, suicide. American Humane is devoted to harnessing the healing powers of the human-animal bond to help veterans.
“As we remain isolated in the face of uncertain times, this virtual event will serve as a rallying point to bring us together to provide veterans in need with the healing power of our four-legged friends,” said Robin Ganzert, CEO and president of American Humane. “Service dogs are an invaluable asset to veterans with trauma, and this virtual Pups for Patriots 5K will help us literally save lives on both ends of the leash.”
Research shows that specially trained PTS service dogs can reduce stress and anxiety levels, mitigate depression, ease social reintegration, provide comfort and restore confidence in affected veterans. There are many obstacles standing in the way of veterans in need of service dogs, however, including long waiting lists and exorbitant costs, reaching upwards of $30,000 per service dog. American Humane’s Pups4Patriots™ program pairs dogs in search of forever homes with veterans in need. The two are trained together at no cost to the veteran. Money raised from the upcoming Pups4Patriots 5K will cover the training of a qualified, lifesaving service dog for a distressed veteran.
Participants can complete the 5K at their own pace anytime between Monday, August 31 to Monday, September 7. Registration is free and participants will raise funds amongst their peers who will sponsor the run. The first 150 participants to raise $250 will receive an American Humane leash. Participants will also have the opportunity to hear directly from Pups4Patriots™ graduates, learning how these veterans’ lives were changed after bonding with their new four-legged friend.
“American Humane is committed to putting healing leashes into the hands of more veterans in need, and we can’t do it without your support,” Ganzert said. “Raise awareness, go for a run, a walk or a jog and help a veteran – ready, set, go!”
Participants can register at https://pups4patriots.blackbaud-sites.com/.
About American Humane
American Humane is the country’s first national humane organization. Founded in 1877, American Humane is committed to ensuring the safety, welfare and well-being of animals, and our leadership programs are first to serve in promoting and nurturing the bonds between animals and people. For more information or to support our work, please visit www.americanhumane.org
