Stray to Service expands as a success story shows appreciation

The Stray to Service program, which traditionally operated through the Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter, is taking the next step in becoming an independent 501(c)(3). 

While appearing on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse program, Stray to Service board president Jill Moriarty and Lead Dog Trainer Shan Foster made an appearance alongside success story Morgan Shepardson and her Stray to Service dog, Annie. 

Shepardson suffers from post traumatic stress disorder. PTSD can often leave sufferers in deep depressions and a debilitating state of anxiety. After medications failed to work for Shepardson, she heard of the Stray to Service program and although not a military veteran herself, decided to submit an application. 

After having her application accepted, Foster, who has trained dogs for 43 years, then trained Shepardson along-side Annie to create an understanding and a bond. It’s that bond Shepardson has with Annie which allows her to do things other people take for granted in everyday life, such as go out shopping. Shepardson and Annie have been together for over two years. Shepardson told listeners that Annie has not only given her back her life, Annie has added a new level to it. 

To show her appreciation, Shepardson – who in her spare time creates digital art of local dogs and publishes a calendar – will release her latest calendar and raise funds for Stray to Service during an event at Luminous Brewhouse from 3 – 6 p.m. on Dec. 11. The event will include music and a silent auction with proceeds going to Stray to Service. 

The Stray to Service organization works with the local Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter to rehabilitate and train shelter dogs to become service dogs for veterans.  

The program has proven such a success Moriarty informed listeners that the Stray to Service program has become an independent organization from the shelter, but will remain as partners to continue to give shelter dogs a new purpose and brighter future. 

Foster, informed listeners that Stray to Service has been successful since its inception, changing the lives of veterans. With the success of Shepardson and Annie, the program looks to expand, offering a Stray to Service dog to veteran and non-veterans who qualify. But the program will always look to the shelter, giving new life and purpose to dogs that need a second chance. 

If you would like to learn more, read more success stories, donate or submit an application to be trained for a possible service dog connection, click here.