CAA joins Companions for Heroes - WTVM.com-Columbus, GA News Weather & Sports

CAA joins Companions for Heroes

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By Kelsey Davis - email

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BATON ROUGE, LA (WAFB) -

Companion Animal Alliance is targeting people who rescue and protect as potential owners for sheltered animals. The CAA feels they are naturals for taking in animals in need.

"We've got a great group of veterans and first responders here in Baton Rouge, and we certainly have some great animals, " said CAA's Cathy Coates.

That's why Companion Animal Alliance has joined Companions for Heroes, a national organization that aims to pair veterans, active duty military and first responders with cats and dogs in shelters.

Local paramedic Leah Buhler is thrilled that there is a pet adoption program out there that includes first responders whose dangerous jobs are often forgotten.

"PTSD I think extends further than just the military. Police, fireman, any traumatic event could trigger something like that. So it's something that will help them as well," said Buhler

Heroes are asked to pass a screening process devised by the national organization. Those who are eligible get a bonus package that will reimburse adoption fees, pay for a year of pet insurance, and land them a gift card for supplies and training if necessary.

"If I thought about them, I imagine most of them would be thankful to have a roof over their head, a warm bed and a full tummy all the time too," said Buhler. "So, I think it helps them more than it helps me. It helped the puppy more than me."

CAA staff are happy for yet another initiative to get these animals into loving homes.

"We have animals. We have old, young, small, big, pure bred, pure mutt. Something for everybody. Really and truly come on out," said Coates.

CAA is also celebrating senior citizens this month with discounted adoption fees for those who are 55 and older.

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