One of the best examples of community is how we give of our time, and of our money to the less fortunate. While most recognize that members of our own species needs aid, love and compassion, there are others that we can help. I was introduced to a few examples of this today. Sometimes, it is noteworthy to recognize those who help rescue canines in need.
Labs and More, San Diego
Several times a year, at the main campus in Carlsbad, my company hosts expos for charitable organizations in San Diego – supporting a children’s hospital, or fighting cancer, or health and wellness, or disaster preparedness. Or like today, when a few San Diego animal rescue groups came with their furry ambassadors to raise awareness in the community. The volunteers who organize and man these outreach programs wear their hearts on their sleeve. These all-volunteer groups raise funds to support the medical needs, the feeding, housing, foster care and adoption of these rescued animals. Many pay out-of-pocket, and some benefactors help. But when the need is great, and no relinquished or found animal is turned away, there are ongoing needs.
Lab Rescuers, San Diego
As one of the ladies volunteering with fostering these dogs said to me, when monthly food bills for animals being cared for at their center can average $8000 a month, or anxiety, heart or seizure medications for otherwise very happy-go-lucky rescued dogs are a constant need, finding loving homes is why she helps as she can. There are so many needs across the spectrum, she says, that she (and many like-minded folks) find where they can serve in just one area.
I spent the other half of my lunch hour talking with another presenter at today’s expo, the president of a charitable organization whose focus happens be two causes near and dear to my heart. Gary talked to me how they are aiding veterans recovering from PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injuries, through THE PEGASUS RISING PROJECT, a novel therapy program in San Diego. With veterans caring for and working with horses rescued from abuse or neglect, these animals mirror the trust-issues, anxieties and hypersensitivity that the veterans are challenged by. It was a very thoughtful approach that I became very interested in.
It's a Dog's Life 
Reblogged this on Truths, Half-truths, and Sea Stories and commented:
In particular, I am interested in learning more about the PEGASUS PROJECT, particularly as I want to let fellow veterans and especially my old shipmates, know there are resources , that don’t involve being medicated by the VA or “just deal with it” attitudes. More to follow….
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