Every month, Cuddle Clones proudly donated meals, medical care, and toys to 10 animal shelters around the country. January 2022 was no exception, and of the 10 amazing organizations we supported, we are shining this month’s Shelter Spotlight on Rescue Pets Serving Vets, Inc. After reading their shelter nomination, we were thrilled to support this critically important cause. 

Is there a shelter, rescue, or humane association in your area in need of support? Nominate them at  blog@cuddleclones.com! Be sure to include the name of the organization, address, contact information including phone number/email address, and a short message regarding why you are nominating this shelter. Through your support and nominations, we have donated over 4,000,000 meals! Together, we can do even more.

Introducing Rescue Pets Serving Vets, Inc.

The men and women of the United States Armed Forces provide a debt of service that we can never truly repay. Unfortunately, this service often comes with a hefty cost. According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, anywhere from 11-20% of veterans suffer with the long-term effects of post traumatic stress disorder. For reference, approximately 6% of the normal population struggle with PTSD, meaning that on average, veterans aretwice as likely to struggle. That’s where the noble mission of Rescue Pets Serving Vets, Inc. comes in!

Based out of Benton, PA, Rescue Pets Serving Vets is a nonprofit animal welfare organization focused on finding forever homes for abandoned and special needs animals. However, what sets this organization apart is the special priority given to the veterans of the United States Armed Forces. This allows our veterans to make a lifelong connection to a companion, therapy, or service dog. As RPSV puts it, “These pets in turn help heal the hearts of our veterans, those with special needs, and families in our communities.

Research shows the missions of organizations like Rescue Pets Serving Vets are having a positive impact! Countless studies indicate that having a service dog is associated numerous self-reported beneficial outcomes, including:

• Lower PTSD symptoms
• Higher quality of life
• Lower/more regulated production of cortisol (the stress hormone)
• Better social function
• Reductions in stress and anxiety

The animals under RPSV’s care are rescued from high-kill shelters in the southern and southwestern United States, specifically Texas, North Carolina, South Caroline, Georgia, and occasionally Louisiana. By rescuing pets from these high-euthanasia states, the load is lessened on their shelter systems, meaning other locala shelter pets have a better chance at receiving the care they need and ultimately finding their brand new forever home. As RPSV says, “our ultimate goal is to home these pets with the right owner in either the general public or with veterans that need a special companion as a service or emotional support animal.” Given their dedication to saving the lives of pets from high-kill shelters, it’s clear they walk their talk!

How to Support Rescue Pets for Vets, Inc.

The awesome news is that you have made a purchase from Cuddle Clones within the last few weeks, you already have! A portion of every purchase goes to support the 10 shelters we donate to monthly (one  Cuddle Clone means 20 meals donated to hungry, homeless pets). However, for the charitable souls in our community, there are a number of ways you can support Rescue Pets for Vets and make a difference in the lives of these beautiful pups.

If you’re a Benton, PA local, show up and get involved. As RPSV says, “We are always looking for volunteers to help us make our vision a reality. We need fosters, service dog trainers, and people to help network our adoptable pets. We'll help you find a way to volunteer that best suits you.” You may also want to consider  adopting a pet from RPSV! Adoptions are open to the public, and the support your adoption provides ensures a vet can receive the support they need! If you aren’t a local or your schedule simply doesn’t allow for the time commitment, consider  making a donation or spreading the word on social media by sharing this blog.