One year ago today we matched our first veteran and dog team under our new Canine Co-Pilot program. Costa and his rescue dog, Annie (a golden retriever mix), enjoy walks around the bogs of Carver complete with swim breaks. They love training together and excelled quickly during their obedience levels. Happy 1 year match anniversary Gerald and Annie!
“I was a dog handler (military police) in the Air Force. My dog George and I were in Vietnam late 1971 to 1972. I credit my coming home to George.
I have always had a German shepherd, three in total since my marriage thirty years ago. As my service connected disabilities have worsened my wife felt another German shepherd pup would be far too much on us.
My doctor at the Brockton VA gave me the number for Heroes In Transition and the rest is history. Annie has changed my life! I’ve never had a female, she is my baby girl and lap dog. I’ve also never had less than a 100/120 lbs dog. I was a trainer, now KateLynne and Michael are training Annie and I together. She is such a good girl and such good company for me. I’m so very proud to be a part of Heroes In Transition and the Canine Co-Pilot program.”
Gerald Costa
United States Air Force veteran
