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Patriot story/interview: Matthew and Athena

ClosedDeadline: 10/13/2014

Story Details

Background:

Matthew is an Army veteran who adopted Sadie (renamed to Athena) in January 2014 through our partnership with Michigan Humane Society, following the death of his previously adopted Pets for Patriots dog, Nutter. Please supplement his sparse story with follow up questions to generate more content.

 

Interview should cover:

  • Brief background of military experience: when/why entered the military, any memorable moments/events
  • Prior experience having a pet; why member decided to adopt a pet at this time
  • Why member decided to adopt through Pets for Patriots
  • Why member chose his/her pet in particular
  • How the pet has helped him/her
  • Member's experience with Pets for Patriots
  • What s/he would say to another veteran who is considering adopting a companion pet
  • If s/he is using our local veterinary partner: anything to add about experiences with them
  • Anything else that naturally arises through the course of the interview

Please remind the member to send pictures of himself/herself and the pet; the story cannot be published without them:
https://www.petsforpatriots.org/contact-us/

Contact information and email introduction will be provided to writer who claims this story.

Quotes:

Pet's Name
Athena
A little about me
Right now I'm a stay at home dad going to school to get a degree in nursing. I'm married with a 4 year old son, Brady.
My military experiences
I served in the Army for 2 years
Why I chose to adopt a pet
I was addicted to the show Pit Bulls and Parolees, so I fell in love with Pits and wanted to save one. I adopted a 2 year old Pit named Nutter who's life ended way too soon because of an illness. I never thought I could replace her, you never have that feeling. But a few months later I found Sadie, who I renamed Athena, a Mastiff/Pit mix who is a big lover and calm girl.
Why I chose to adopt through Pets for Patriots
I chose to adopt through Pets for Patriots because they work with the Humane Society and I wanted to rescue a dog, which I've done twice.
How my honorably adopted pet has changed my life
I adopted Athena as an ESA (Emotional Support Animal). She is there when I need her and is a 70 lb lap dog. I'm happy I found her and decided to adopt again.
What I love most about my new pet friend
That she's a mellow dog, and just wants to be loved.
What I would tell other veterans or service members who might be thinking about adopting through Pets for Patriots
If you're serious, I recommend doing it. It's a great feeling when you adopt a dog. Of course you could go spend $500+ on a puppy which will find a home. I just find it more fulfilling when you adopt an animal who was given up and might not find another home.