I have always had a passion and commitment for volunteer service. I have worked with dozens of charitable and community organizations over the past 40 years including Special Olympics, D.A.R.E., C-SNIP and the Rockford and Sparta Chambers of Commerce.

In 2007 I began working with Veterans with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) and many other complicated emotional and physical issues related to military service. My lifelong career as a Chiropractor was at ethical odds with the amount and variety of medications being given to America’s Veterans to assist them in coping with the struggles of returning home to resume a normal life after serving in the military and/or in combat. I just knew there had to be a better solution.

I started thinking about all of the pets I have had in my life have taught me a lot about patience, consistency, the helpfulness of routine and how these activities can add to anyone’s quality of life. Surely the right pet (mostly dogs, but any pet can offer respite from some of these symptoms) could assist some Veterans in some natural healing through unconditional love and furry snuggles. Pets can often help take the focus off of yourself and ease the horrible symptoms of PTSD and other diagnoses. The necessity for consistent routine when caring for a pet can help immensely with many of the symptoms our Veterans encounter.

As Executive Director at K9 Camo Companions my mission and pledge to our West Michigan Veterans and their pets is to do everything in my power to help both the Veteran and the pet find peace and contentment in their lives together.