Supporting Veterans and Their Companion Animals
Supporting Veterans and Their Companion Animals
Vets With Pets (VWP) is designed to support the incredible bond you have with your animal. We help keep local veterans and their pets healthy and happy together through fun community outings, access to supplies, educational events, and connections to veterinary care. VWP is an all-encompassing program designed to enhance wellness for both of you.
Vets With Pets Program Pillars
An All-Inclusive Community for All Pets
VWP is for all companion animals, not just service animals. We are building a fun, engaging, and supportive community for Rochester-area veterans and their beloved pets of all kinds.
Comprehensive, Integrated Support
This program is uniquely woven into all existing VOC services. We offer a holistic range of support, from community-building events and wellness activities to essential supplies and limited financial assistance for care.
Honoring the Human-Animal Bond
The Vets With Pets program is about recognizing and supporting the positive impact that companion animals have on a veteran’s wellness, health, and happiness.
Be a Vets With Pets Champion
Partner with us to underwrite the Vets With Pets program, providing essential resources like pet food, supplies, and community-building wellness activities for local veterans. Your investment directly enhances the wellness, health, and happiness of veterans and their beloved companion animals.
Ready to Join the Pack?
Participation in the Vets With Pets program is open to all veterans who meet the established service eligibility requirements of the Veterans Outreach Center. Those bringing a dog must complete the dog visitor/participant form below prior to coming in for services.
Contact Nena Siverd, Vets With Pets Program Manager, at Nena.Siverd@vocroc.org or 585.295.7818 to learn more or get started.
Dog Agreement Form
Well-behaved dogs are welcome at VOC and can attend Vets with Pets programs. We recognize the important role that dogs play in health and wellness, and we are pleased to welcome your pet. However, to ensure a positive experience for all, all dogs must be friendly, properly socialized with other dogs, current on their rabies shots and flea and tick prevention, and do not disrupt the environment. Owners should only engage in non-physical, force-free correction. Please review the rules below and sign to acknowledge your agreement.
Rules for Bringing Dogs into VOC:
- Dogs must always remain on a leash. The leash must be held by the owner with the dog under control.
- If a dog displays aggressive behavior, it will be asked to leave and not allowed back in VOC.
- Excessive barking is not allowed.
- Dogs are expected to be housetrained, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after them indoors and outdoors on VOC property.
By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read, understood, and agree to abide by the above rules while visiting VOC and/or while participating in any VWP events or programs with my dog. I acknowledge that typing my name into this form will serve as my official signature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vets With Pets?
VWP is designed to strengthen the vital bond between you and your companion animal by providing comprehensive support, engaging activities, and essential resources to ensure you can thrive together.
What if my pet isn't a trained service animal?
That’s okay! VWP is for all companion animals, not just service animals. We are building a fun, engaging, and supportive community for veterans and their pets of all kinds.
What will I actually do in this program?
You and your pet can join activities like group hikes, pet-friendly outings, and special events. The program also offers educational workshops, training, and activities that promote physical health for you and your pet.
Does VWP help pay for vet bills?
The program facilitates access to partner vet clinics and offers access to limited, needs-based financial support for critical care. However, it is critical to understand that VWP is not a financial program.
What else does the program provide?
In addition to events, VWP offers support with pet food, supplies, and vet clinics.
Who is eligible to participate in VWP?
Participation is open to veterans who meet VOC’s established service eligibility requirements.