Disabled Veterans, Service Dogs, and Spaceships

What do disabled veterans, service dogs, and spaceships have in common? When I was invited to participate in the first of several Pets in Space® anthologies, and later took over as editor, my favorite thing about them was the charity focus. Of course, I love science fiction romance, but the chance to help Hero Dogs with their mission is truly the best part. 

Hero Dogs Trains Service Dogs for Heroes

Hero Dogs is a small nonprofit that provides service dogs for disabled U.S. veterans and first-responders. This charity raises, trains, and places these dogs free of charge, with lifetime support of the partnerships. 

They also train and place facility dogs and therapy dogs. When there's a disagreeable task ahead, such as a grueling rehabilitation session, a therapy dog is great for motivation and much-welcome distraction. Warm and friendly facility dogs can help kids  — and adults — feel less alone and less afraid. I've seen people with deep dementia (including in my own family) light up and come alive and present for a few moments, all because a facility dog was happy to see them and wanted to be petted.

Modern medicine works miracles in keeping heroes alive after serious injuries caused by fighting a war or running into a burning building. Hopefully, when we travel the stars, future medical advances will improve the chances for complete recovery. But I think we'll always have a need for unconditional love from a dog who knows what to do when their companion needs a helping paw. “Stellar Drift,” my space opera romance story in Pets in Space 8, features a pet gargoyle who does exactly that for her owner.

How You Can Help

You can help us help Hero Dogs help veterans and first-responders by buying Pets in Space 8 right now. 10% of the preorders and first month's profits go to this terrific nonprofit organization. 

Thank you for your support.