Paws and Stripes connects vets with service dogs Published Aug. 6, 2014 By Ryan Stark Nucleus staff writer KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- A local nonprofit is working to help veterans find a four-legged friend and, with it, peace of mind. Paws and Stripes, based in Rio Rancho, was founded in 2010 by Lindsey and Jim Stanek. Jim, an Army veteran, was sent home with PTSD during his third tour in Iraq. He discovered that he felt much better working with service dogs. Participating troops are paired with puppies that they will raise for two years to serve as assistance dogs for other injured veterans. Studies indicate that working with dogs releases oxytocin, a hormone that promotes bonding. New research, including a $5 million study at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., seeks to scientifically test whether training service dogs helps with post-traumatic stress disorder. The Staneks are already true believers, however. So much so they founded Paws and Stripes to cover the expense of getting a service dog. Director of Enrollment Mark Valvo said costs to the veterans they serve would range between $30,000 and $60,000. "These disabled vets are on a fixed income," he said. "The exorbitant cost of a service dog is prohibitive for these guys." Participants are predominantly Afghanistan and Iraq veterans, but the program also has served those who were in the Vietnam, Gulf and Bosnian wars, as well as others. "For us, it doesn't matter whether you served in wartime or peacetime, it doesn't matter the branch of service, that's not really what we're concerned about," Valvo said. Around 80 veterans have been served so far, and new queries are coming into Paws and Stripes regularly, Valvo said. Vets apply to be matched with a dog and undergo a mental health evaluation. After that, a number of dogs are brought in for the veteran to choose from. Then the Paws and Stripes staff help walk the veteran through the training process. "In the very beginning, (the veterans) are learning very baseline skills," Valvo said. "That's going to be things like leash control, proper handling of the dog and good focus. Once those skills are set in stone, that's the foundation. Every other skill builds on top of that." There is beginning, intermediate and advanced training. For someone with PTSD, having a dog can make something as simple as going to a public place much more comfortable, Valvo said. "Probably one of the biggest things is that guys are able to get out more," Valvo said. "They're able to spend time with their families, get out to their kids' game. Really, what it's about is empowering the veteran to take advantage of all the things they previously weren't able to do." Things like crowds, loud noises, personal space and other issues might otherwise keep the veteran at home and missing out, he said. Trained, certified service animals are allowed in public spaces, including stores and restaurants, according to the Americans with Disabilities Act and New Mexico state law. "It (the ADA) covers hotels and housing, too," Valvo said, adding that veterans with a service dog cannot be charged a pet fee at a hotel or apartment. "Allergies or fear of dogs or health codes in restaurants are not reasons to bar access in any public establishment, so long as the animal is under control by leash or command." Paws and Stripes will advocate for veterans and their service animals if they are denied access. Valvo said those cases are usually due to simple ignorance of the law. To learn more about Paws and Stripes, including how to participate or donate, visit www.pawsandstripes.org.