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P.U.P.S. program to give vets a loving canine companion

PENDLETON, Ind. (WISH) — A new program is giving shelter dogs a new lease on life and giving veterans a new companion.

Pendleton Correctional Facility announced their new P.U.P.S. Program on Thursday.

The program pairs 4-year-old Ike, a Golden Retriever and Chow mix with an American Legion Post 608 Son’s of Legion member. The member will train Ike basic skills. Officials say the goal is for Ike to become a companion to a local veteran.

“I hope this is an opportunity for our American Legion to help improve the quality of life for a veteran as well as long lasting positive results for everyone involved,” stated William “Dion” Baxter, PCF American Legion Post Commander.

The program hopes the companion gives vets the experience of unconditional love from a canine friend while giving the dog a new life.