Wolfhounds Legacy Hosts Fifth Annual Pets for Vets Fundraiser
CAPE CORAL, Fla. (WINK) — Wolfhounds Legacy is excited to announce its fifth annual Pets for Vets fundraiser this week. The Cape Coral-based nonprofit is dedicated to training shelter dogs to provide physical and emotional support to veterans. Over the past five years, Wolfhounds Legacy has successfully paired nearly 300 dogs with veterans, effectively saving two lives with each investment made in the program.
For veterans, the companionship offered by these service dogs is provided at no cost. Navy veteran Jeffrey DeMond shared his experiences, stating, “I didn’t really know how much I needed a service dog before I had him.” His service dog, Gus, has made a significant difference in his life, helping him overcome struggles with leaving his home.
“I used to talk myself out of going places… it’s harder for me to talk myself out of things because he wants to go so bad,” DeMond explained. Gus, a graduate of Wolfhounds Legacy, has provided DeMond with not just a companion, but a reason to engage with the world.
Mark Fry, the president of Wolfhounds Legacy, explained that the program not only rescues veterans but also saves dogs from shelters. The organization meticulously evaluates shelter dogs based on their personalities and the specific needs of veterans seeking service companions. Fry noted that many dogs in shelters may have behavioral issues that can complicate training.
Each dog undergoes a thorough evaluation to assess any aggressive traits and other factors that might prevent them from completing a seven-month training program. Once selected, the nonprofit covers all training, medical, and care costs associated with each dog, which can total around $5,000. Fry emphasized the rising costs of food and training materials, which have prompted the need for fundraising events like Pets for Vets.
By providing service dogs at no cost to veterans, Wolfhounds Legacy enables Veterans Affairs to allocate resources to other essential services. Fry stated, “If you do the math, we’ve done almost 300 dogs. That saves the VA system a tremendous amount of money.”
DeMond agreed, highlighting how this program makes it easier for veterans to find and access the help they need. He noted that many veterans are hesitant to seek support, but a program like Wolfhounds Legacy provides an immediate connection to resources.
This year, Wolfhounds Legacy aims to raise $15,000 through the Pets for Vets fundraiser, which would fund training for two to three dogs. In addition to financial support, the organization is also in need of volunteers to foster dogs before they enter training, with the understanding that the veterans will take over their care once training is completed.
The fundraiser will run through Friday, and more information on donating or volunteering can be found here.
