Topsham VFW donates to Embrace A Vet’s ‘Paws for Peace’ program

TOPSHAM — The Rev. Joseph Lamarre Memorial VFW Post 2197 has selected the local Embrace A Vet program as its special project for this year. The post membership approved a $250 donation and applied to VFW National for a $250 matching grant, which was approved.

Embrace A Vet provides training for rescue dogs to become service dogs for veterans, as well as training for the veteran through an interactive program conducted at the American Legion hall in Brunswick.
Executive Director Tracy Shaw provided an overview of the program. “Our Paws for Peace service dog program matches homeless dogs with veterans living with PTSD and traumatic brain injury.” she explained. “In this unique program, the pair train together, enriching both lives while building peer relationships. There is no cost to the veteran, thanks to the generosity of our donors and partnerships within our community.”
Shaw said most of the dogs are hand-selected by the Paws for Peace team from shelters and rescue organizations, then paired with their veterans. “In the event that the veteran has their own canine companion, we are happy to evaluate them as potential PTSD service dogs. Classes are personalized for the needs of the veterans and instructed by volunteer Paws for Peace veteran alumni under the guidance of a professional dog trainer.,” she added, noting each class will progress through 16 weekly meetings held in Brunswick and surrounding communities.
Shaw said the post’s $500 donation would allow them to acquire a rescue dog and provide training for the dog and its veteran. “Embrace A Vet” also provides support programs for caregivers of veterans.
VFW Post 2197 is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping fellow veterans and veterans’ programs as well as the local community. The post actively seeks new membership of those who have served in areas of conflict. For more information, visit its post Facebook page, vfw post 2197 topsham, or contact the post commander by email at cha_rogsteve@comcast.net.

PHOTO: Embrace A Vet executive director Tracy Shaw receives a $500 donation from Post 2197 Quartermaster Al Bourque, right, and Post Chaplain Henry Haley. (Submitted photo)