Life after divorce was difficult for Theodore to endure. So the Navy veteran threw a lifeline to a spirited shelter dog – and she tossed him one in return.

Sweet as ginger

When Theodore walked into a Michigan animal shelter in July 2024, he was searching for more than a pet. He was searching for a companion to help him heal.

Theodore is medically retired after years as a self-taught controls engineer for various large companies, as well as his own business. He enjoys working with Raspberry Pi, and recently bought a 3D printer to keep his mind engaged.

The Navy veteran was recently divorced. His wife ended up with the two dogs that they adopted during their marriage. And despite his many pursuits and hobbies, Theodore found himself struggling with loneliness.

That all changed the moment the Navy veteran met Ginger at Humane Society of Huron Valley.

The shelter is one of our earliest partners, joining us in 2011. They offer our veterans half-priced adoptions and 10 percent off services at their full-service veterinary clinic.

At the time Ginger was a large, young adult Pit Bull. She has a honey-colored coat with striking white markings, and one ear that sports the cutest flop.

The Navy veteran signed Ginger’s adoption papers within a week of being approved into our program. From that moment on they have been thick as thieves.

“Ginger and I have really bonded,” Theodore says. “She is an awesome dog! Ginger is really helping me to deal with life right now – [a] very loving and affectionate dog.”

Out to sea

Theodore served from 1983 to 1987 aboard the USS Carl Vinson, a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. He spent years navigating the vast seas and the challenges of life on land. During his service he experienced some unforgettable moments.

The Navy veteran recalls his stop in Mombasa, Kenya. He did a three-day safari near Mt. Kilimanjaro, calling it a fantastic experience. He enjoyed riding his bicycle around Singapore, Hong Kong, and the Philippines. Each day he carried his bicycle on and off the ship.

Seeing the world in such a unique way left a lasting impression on Theodore. At the same time, life at sea put his life back home on hold.

“I loved to serve and see the world, but when you are on a ship for three-and-a-half years and spend two-and-a-half at sea,” he says. “I got out since it was near impossible to raise a family.”

After separating from service Theodore settled in Florida, where he lived for 17 years.

Life with dogs

Following his divorce Theodore returned to Michigan, eager for a fresh start. But the transition was not easy.

The Navy veteran was living alone and adjusting to a new chapter. He knew he needed the unconditional love only a dog could provide.

“The one thing everyone needs to understand – dogs are the only creature on this planet that will love you more than they love themselves,” he says.

Theodore discovered Pets for Patriots while researching adoption options. We made it possible for him to adopt Ginger by easing the initial costs and ensuring he had a network of support.

“Living on Social Security disability, you tend to watch your day-to-day costs, and Pets for Patriots really helps veterans like me with the initial expense,” he shares.

Our team follows up with every adopter for at least one year as part of our goal to support adoptions for life.

“But it doesn’t stop there,” Theodore continues. “I received phone [calls] and several emails to follow up and make sure I had no issues, and that everything was going well with my new family member.”

“…my best friend”

From the moment Ginger entered Theodore’s life, everything changed.

The two are inseparable, filling their days with long walks and evenings with movie nights. Ginger has lots of energy, but enjoys snuggling on the couch and sharing popcorn, too.

“After getting divorced, and not having any family and few friends, Ginger makes sure that I always know she’s there for me and that she loves me,” Theodore shares.

“She is an awesome dog and now my best friend.”

Beyond companionship, Ginger has given Theodore a renewed sense of purpose.

Ginger motivates Theodore to stay active by encouraging him to take multiple walks each day. The simple act of getting outside, staying engaged, and having a reason to move forward has been transformative.

Theodore discovered that there is life – and a fulfilling one – after divorce.

“Having Ginger has made me get off my rear,” Theodore shares, “and we walk several times a day, so she has been great keeping me active.”

For Theodore, adopting through Pets for Patriots was one of the best decisions he has made. We are available before, during, and after the adoption process. Our outreach helps ensure that veterans and their new companions thrive.

“First they help with some of the costs associated with adopting, removing excuses for many. Secondly they are there for you both during the process and after – calling and emailing to make sure that you and your new friend are doing well,” Theodore explains. “And if you have an issue, they will help you deal with that as well. Pets for Patriots is a great organization.”

Ginger may have been the one rescued. But in truth, in return she has rescued Theodore from the loneliness of divorce. Together they are proof that even during life’s hardest moments, love, loyalty, and a fresh start are always within reach.