San Francisco VA Health Care System

Pets For Vets

Please note: Pets for Vets is currently on hold while the program is being restructured. Those Veterans who have already completed a request form will be contacted. Please check back often for updates on the program status.

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What is Pets for Vets? 

Started in 2000, the Pets for Vets program supports any Northern California Veteran who qualifies to adopt a cat or dog from Wonder Dog Rescue.

What is the purpose of the project?

The project is a humanitarian one in which everyone benefits. Cats and dogs are adopted into homes. Veterans gain the love and companionship that pets bring. The elderly are especially well-served by pets. There is even some potential medical benefit to our Veterans: studies have found that pets can decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, and feelings of loneliness.

How is it funded?

All funding for the Pets for Vets program comes from voluntary donations.  Donations can be made through SFVAHCS' Voluntary Service. If you are interested in donating, please read below for more information. Presently, we are operating thanks to extremely generous donations from PetSmart and Dog Bless America (Annenberg).

Who is eligible for Pets for Vets?

We issue a voucher to any Veteran who wants to adopt a dog or cat, and passes Wonder Dog Rescue's screening requirements.

How does it work, and what does Pets for Vets pay for?

A Veteran must first contact Jamye Kubick at SFPets4Vets@outlook.com or (415) 221-4810, ext. 2-2004, to request to complete a short informational form. Then the Veteran will be directed to Wonder Dog Rescue to be screened (for requirements such as having an established residence, a means to continue to care for the pet, written landlord approval, etc.) The Veteran indicates to Wonder Dog Rescue that this adoption is through Pets for Vets. If accepted by Wonder Dog Rescue, the Pets for Vets program acts as a guarantor of payment on the initial adoption fee, dog license fee (San Franciso residents are required to obtain one) and Wonder Dog Rescue dog training classes. All other expenses are the responsibility of the new pet owner.

Click here for Frequently Asked Questions & Answers.

Pets for Vets founder Dr. Russell Lemle was recently recognized by the Bay Area Red Cross for his contributions to the program. You can see a video about his dedication to Pets for Vets here.

Donations

Are you interested in supporting Pets for Vets program for our Veterans? To donate, please make checks payable to "San Francisco VA Health Care System" with a notation designating your donation to "Pets for Vets" and mail checks to:

San Francisco VA Health Care System
Attn: Voluntary Service (135)
4150 Clement Street
San Francisco CA 94121

We appreciate your support!