Supporting Military Families Through Dogs on Deployment: An Interview with Alyssa Johnson
In this episode of RUP Buttercup, hosts chat with Alyssa Johnson, founder of Dogs on Deployment, a nonprofit organization supporting military families by providing resources and fostering programs for their pets. Alyssa shares her personal military experience as a Marine Corps pilot, her journey in creating the organization following the challenges she faced with her dog JD, and the range of services Dogs on Deployment offers, including boarding, financial assistance for PCS moves, and veterinary care. They discuss the unique struggles military families face with their pets during deployments and relocations, and how the community can support this mission. The conversation highlights the importance of community, volunteering, and how supporters can get involved to help military families and their pets.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:30 Alyssa's Military Background
01:30 Challenges of Military Life with Pets
03:05 The Birth of Dogs on Deployment
05:49 Personal Stories and Struggles
10:18 Expanding the Mission
18:36 Financial Assistance and Support Programs
24:56 Difficult Decision: Euthanizing a Beloved Pet
25:58 Emergency Vet Visit: A Life-Threatening Diagnosis
27:11 The Financial Burden of Pet Healthcare
29:00 Cherished Memories and Final Moments
33:51 Supporting Military Families with Pets
36:22 How to Support Dogs on Deployment
39:29 Volunteering and Community Involvement
46:36 The Importance of Philanthropy and Volunteering
Reach out to chat: sabrinajohannes@deployedlove.org
Reach Out to Dogs on Deployment: info@dogsondeployment.org
(4) Fahttps://www.facebook.com/DogsonDeploymentcebook
