June is PTSD Awareness Month: How Dogtopia of Viera Supports Veterans and Rescued Dogs

At Dogtopia of Viera, we are proud to honor our veterans during PTSD Awareness Month by supporting life-saving partnerships between service dogs and military heroes. Through the Dogtopia Foundation, we help fund the training of service dogs for veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)—many of whom face the challenges of an “invisible” illness that often lacks adequate medical support.

Veterans and Service Dogs: A Life-Changing Connection

PTSD affects nearly 1 in 5 U.S. veterans, impacting their emotional and everyday lives. Service dogs are more than companions—they help manage symptoms, reduce anxiety, interrupt panic attacks, and provide a grounding presence. Many veterans credit their service dogs with saving their lives.

Retired Command Sergeant Major Gretchen Evans, a Dogtopia Foundation ambassador, is one such warrior. Her bond with her service dog gave her renewed strength and purpose. Her story inspired our “Dogs Save Lives” T-shirt—$10 helps pair a service dog with a veteran.
👉 Buy It. Wear It. Share It.

K9s For Warriors: Two Lives Saved

Dogtopia of Viera proudly partners with K9s For Warriors, the nation’s largest provider of service dogs for veterans—most of them rescued from shelters.

Ultimately, a veteran meets their dog, that dog is ready to serve—changing two lives with every match: the veteran’s and the dog’s.
Learn more: K9sForWarriors.org

Supporting Science and Service

In addition, the Dogtopia Foundation and K9s For Warriors sponsored a University of Arizona study. As a result, this research confirms that veterans with service dogs show healthier cortisol levels, reduced depression, and improved overall well-being.
📖 Read the study summary

How You Can Help at Dogtopia of Viera

Every time you bring your dog to Dogtopia of Viera for daycare, spa, or boarding, you’re helping us support this mission. Want to do more?

Round up at checkout or make a donation at our front desk
Join our fundraising events all month long
Share our story on social media using #PTSDawareness #DogtopiaViera

Donate Today – 100% Goes to the Cause

Help us fund more service dogs for the heroes who need them most.
💙 Donate now to Dogtopia Foundation – Team Viera

Let’s change lives—four paws at a time.
Together, we can give veterans the support they deserve and rescue dogs a chance to serve with purpose.

If you’re interested in booking any of our daycare, boarding, or spa services, please fill out our online contact form or call us at 321-294-4102 to arrange a meeting with our team. We can’t wait to welcome you and your pet to their new home away from home and show you the benefits of Dogtopia of Viera.