| Sumario: | Recent investigations have documented the difficulties of military service members transitioning to civilian life. Corresponding inquiry has begun to examine programs that can assist veterans with this transition. This qualitative investigation examined a novel partnership between a group of veterans and a Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals shelter in New York State. Interviews were conducted with veterans, shelter administration, and other stakeholders (n = 23). Content analysis revealed seven themes describing the program's strengths (capitalizing on a commitment to service, ability to foster connections among veterans, and low entry barriers), accomplishments (successful habilitation of shelter dogs and positive changes in mood among veterans), and challenges (mixed emotions when a dog is adopted and recruitment of female veterans). Findings suggest that service, contact with other veterans, and kinship with an animal may help veterans transition to civilian life. Although still an emerging practice, programs that pair veterans with animals show promise in easing reintegration challenges.
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