VetPets Fosters Healing for Veterans with Support Animals

A nonprofit organization in Southwestern Pennsylvania, VetPets, is making strides in supporting veterans and first responders through the placement of trained rescue dogs. Founded by combat veteran Omar Brooks and his wife, the organization aims to reduce the alarming rate of veteran suicides, which, according to the National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, exceeded 17 per day in 2022.

Brooks, who served in Iraq, understands the challenges that veterans face upon returning home. He expressed that many veterans struggle with feelings of isolation and a lack of purpose. “I found through my own experiences how veterans could mentally go into a place where they needed another sense of purpose,” he said. His personal journey inspired the creation of VetPets, which trains and pairs rescued dogs with veterans in need.

The training process is comprehensive, involving six to seven months of preparation for each dog. Veterans work with multiple dogs to find the best fit, ensuring a bond is formed before the final pairing. “When we find a match, that veteran comes with us to train the dog the other 20%,” Brooks explained. This hands-on approach enhances the veteran’s engagement and supports their mental health.

VetPets does not only focus on pairing dogs with veterans but also includes wellness workshops and counseling throughout the training phase. This holistic approach helps mitigate issues such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), homelessness, and addiction, which many veterans experience.

Community Impact and Support

As part of its mission, VetPets aims to pair at least three service dogs with veterans each year, often exceeding this goal. The organization currently has 12 certified therapy dogs that participate in community outreach, visiting schools and local emergency services to provide comfort during stressful events.

Brooks emphasized that VetPets distinguishes itself from other organizations through the time and support it offers veterans. “The greatest thing about VetPets and similar services is these wellness dogs reduce the rate of suicide by reducing isolation,” he noted. Additionally, non-veterans can enroll their dogs in six-week training classes, which also financially supports the VetPets program.

The nonprofit’s fundraising efforts have been significant. An annual cash bash held in the fall of 2025 raised over $40,000. The proceeds not only sustain operations into 2026 but also provide direct financial support to veterans in need. This year, three veterans received assistance, including one family impacted by severe flooding and two families mourning veterans lost to suicide.

Brooks highlighted the importance of creating a supportive community for veterans and first responders. “We’re bringing veterans and first responders to a social, non-judgmental zone where they can forget about the distress,” he said. The act of volunteering and participating in community events fosters healing and connection.

For those interested in learning more about VetPets, including opportunities to donate, volunteer, or apply for a service dog, visit https://pavetpets.org/ or call 724-999-VETS. Through its commitment to empowering veterans and first responders, VetPets is making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served.