Chaz is learning a few things about resilience – from a rescue dog and adventure partner with an unbreakable spirit.

Aloha

In 2014 Chaz enlisted in the Army. He trained as an 88M motor transport operator. These service members play a critical role in transportation logistics. The Army depends on them for the movement of personnel and cargo on missions worldwide.

Chaz served with the 25th transport company of the 25th infantry division, stationed out of Hawaii.

The young Army veteran cherishes most the bonds he formed with fellow soldiers.

“Making lifelong friendships” are the bedrock of his most enduring memories.

Pets for Patriots

After completing his tour of duty Chaz separated from service. He moved back to Florida and found employment in the security field.

But by early fall 2021 Chaz began to feel adrift. His once unbreakable spirit began to fade.

One day – when scrolling through social media – the Army veteran discovered Pets for Patriots.

“I think I saw Pets for Patriots on Instagram one day randomly,” he recalls.

Chaz would learn about our companion pet adoption program for military veterans – and a four-legged friend who would soon become his partner in life’s great adventures.

You had me at ‘hello’

At the time Emma was a three year-old Dalmatian and Labrador mix. She was in the care of our partners Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center, which waives adoption fees for veterans we serve.

Like Chaz, Emma knew a few things about resilience.

Despite living in a shelter, unwanted, Emma appeared to have a permanent smile and eyes that sparkled to her very soul.

Chaz was smitten in an instant.

So on the very day we approved Chaz he signed Emma’s adoption contract. Like most newly adopted pets, Emma would get a new name. Stella Bella – or Stella for short.

Since their adoption, Chaz has become a vocal advocate for our mission and work.

“I would and do recommend Pets for Patriots to any veteran I know,” he says.

Chaz appreciates the benefits we offer – all in addition to the free adoption through Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center.

On the road again

In time, Chaz decided to take a break from his workaday life. He was longing to explore the breathtaking beauty of our great nation.

“I’m currently taking time off of work and traveling the country,” he shares. “Hiking [and] camping around the country has become what Stella and I do as often as we can.”

There is no adventure too great or small for this Army veteran and his bestest friend. Together they explore terrain from mountain tops to deserts to wide open beaches.

But the pair’s life of adventure has not been without some roadblocks along the way.

“Stella was born with ear issues that have gotten worse over time,” Chaz shares.

The Army veteran applied to our hero program for veterinary care for help.

Stella needed diagnostics, which were beyond Chaz’s means, to determine the extent of her problems.

Thanks to the generosity of our hero fund donors we were able to get Stella the tests she needed. The results, however, were disappointing.

Chronic infections over the years have started to impact Stella’s internal organs. Surgery was ruled out as an option. For now, she is being managed with pain medication and antibiotics.

Still, Stella’s spirit remains unbreakable.

“She literally walks around with holes on her face,” Chaz shares, “and is still the sweetest thing in the world – to every person and animal.”

Pooch with a purpose

Chaz has learned a lot from his four-legged charge. Nothing seems to dim her spirit. She remains the light of his life.

“Her persistence and resiliency these past few years have taught me a lot,” he says. “Despite her medical issues, she regularly goes on three- to 10-mile hikes, walking through ghost towns or paddle boarding.”

The Army veteran may have thought that he was saving Stella when he rescued her from the shelter. And he did. But he did not expect that this dog – with her unbreakable spirit – would do the same for him.

“Stella gives me purpose on a lot of days where it would otherwise be hard to find any. She really is my best friend.”

It is often said that pets make us better people. We like to think instead that they do not change us as much as they bring out the best in us.

While Chaz may be the one behind the wheel on his adventures with Stella – it is she who has opened up his world.

“I’ve become more outgoing and social, especially on trails as everyone instantly wants to stop and say hi to her,” he shares. “Watching her make people’s day has become one of my most cherished memories with Stella.”