COLUMBUS, Ohio — An Ohio veteran finally has the furry friend he's been searching for, all thanks to a central Ohio-based organization.

What You Need To Know

  • The Veteran Companion Animal Services pairs shelter dogs with veterans

  • The nonprofit also providese the first years’ worth of supplies for the dog

  • VCAS is about to start its next cycle of placements. Veterans can apply online at vcascharity.org

Andrew Sherman was discharged from the military in 2005 because of an injury. He said he has PTSD, and his wife suggested he apply for a service dog. 

“For the longest time, I just tried to deal with everything on my own,” said Sherman. 

After applying for a service dog and waiting for two years, he moved on to Veteran Companion Animal Services (VCAS), a central Ohio nonprofit. He was placed with his dog, Trike, in April. 

“As soon as they opened the door, he came running in to meet me and that was it.”

President and CEO of VCAS Dr. Heather Lane said the organization pairs shelter dogs with veterans. They also provide the first years’ worth of supplies. 

"Trike is extremely happy here with Andrew they're just really best buds and that's what VCAS is all about,” said Lane, “Changing lives for dogs and veterans.”

Trike is missing his left leg. It was amputated after a shelter thinks he was shot, but tht doesn’t matter to Sherman.

“I just needed someone to make me pet him all day,” said Sherman. “I’ll be darned if he isn’t just the perfect dog.”

VCAS is about to start its next cycle of placements. Veterans can apply online at vcascharity.org.​

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