A Dog Named Fly

This letter of thanks is from Stephanie, a Marine Corps veteran and Pets for Patriots member, to our founder and executive director, Beth Zimmerman. Sometimes all it takes is a dog to forever transform the lives of those around her.

Hi Beth,

I know I've thanked you plenty over the phone, but wanted to write you so that anytime your job gets difficult you can read this and have some comfort in knowing that you've greatly affected three lives - [starting with] the life of our new dog, Fly, an eight month-old Border Collie that was rescued by your partner in Utah, Canines With a Cause.

Second, and most important to me, my son. He's only six years old and unfortunately has adopted the role as a service person to me. From calling 911 to telling people in a grocery store to back away from me while I have an anxiety attack, he has gladly accepted the role as I reluctantly watch with no choice.

My child FINALLY has a chance to be a kid, and that's thanks to you and your wonderful organization.

As you know, we haven't started service dog training, but with how my son has seen Fly react to my attacks, I have noticed a change in him. He understands it's her job, backs off, and as a result has less stress.

Finally, my high anxiety, low resilience, stressful life.

From comfort in petting Fly when I have high anxiety to the nudging, licking and pawing Fly does during an attack, she makes my life much more manageable. There really aren't words to express my gratitude for you and your organization.

When Fly is better trained I plan on fostering and possibly adopting, in the hopes of changing lives like you have - ours - for the better.

What you do is extraordinary, and it takes a very special person.

Best regards,

Stephanie, Damian and Fly