Veteran and Service Pup Embark on New Life

This week's Veterans Month feature explores the perfect pairing of Joshua Ferris and his 4-legged pal, Zoom.

Joshua Ferris is a decorated veteran serving for a total of seven and a half years in the United States Army. Of his time serving, he deployed to Iraq for 13 months and to Afghanistan for 12 months. Before medically retiring, Joshua received a Combat Infantry Badge (CIB), five (5) Army Commendation Medal (ACOM), three (3) Army Achievement Medals (AEM), two (2) Overseas Medals, and two (2) Good Conduct Medals.

Even though Joshua did medically retire from the Army, his journey to find a service pooch was pretty lengthy. He explains, "it took over three years after I got out of the army to get a doctor to sign off on me getting a service dog." However, once the doctor's orders were finally in place, 4PAWS for Ability was able to get things moving for Joshua.

4PAWS for Ability "is a non-profit organization that enriches the lives of children with disabilities by the training and placement of quality, task trained service dogs to provide increased independence for the children and assistance to their families". - www.4pawsforability.org

Not only does 4PAWS offer these helpful services for children, veterans are also eligible! It just so happens Joshua is one of those veterans. It takes approximately $40-60k to raise, train, and place these service pups in suitable homes.

With the help of PSA's contribution, Joshua has been able to create the fulfilling life he wants with Zoom by his side. "[Zoom] helps us get out of the house more, helps me get out with the kids more so, it means a lot," Joshua shared.

PSA wishes you and your family the absolute best with Zoom, Joshua. Thank you for your service!