In this episode of The Bark, we spotlight the life-saving bond between veterans and their dogs — a partnership built on trust, loyalty, and healing. While our veterans step up to defend our country, countless dogs are stepping up to defend them right back, providing critical emotional support, mobility assistance, and a renewed sense of purpose when life after service feels overwhelming.

But here’s the hard truth: while dogs are saving lives, too many of theirs are being thrown away. As we face a growing animal crisis, we must rethink the value society puts on a dog’s life — especially when their impact can mean the difference between hope and despair for the heroes who served us.

We’ll sit down with Monica Piper, a veteran and Executive Director of Warrior Freedom Service Dogs – an organization committed to helping veterans with service induced brain injuries reconnect through the unconditional love of a service dog.

If you’ve ever doubted the worth of one animal’s life, this episode will change your mind.