Patriot story: Stasha + Max

In 2017 Stasha, a Navy veteran, adopted a year-old Pit Bull mix named Max from the Virginia Beach SPCA. Max qualified for our program because he weighed 40+ pounds at the time of adoption.

Pet's Name
	Max
A little about me
	Just graduated college with my Associate's degree in Human Services. Just moved to Maryland with new boyfriend who absolutely loves Max, they play together all the time. Currently looking for employment.
My military experiences
	Sasebo Japan 2009-2012- USS Essex and Port Ops Norfolk VA 2012-2017-HM-14 and MARMCEntered the military to get out of my small home town of Roswell, NM. Served in the Navy for 8 years, towards the end of my tour was able to serve in Honor Gaurd for 6 months, which I'm very proud of.
My most memorable experience from my time in service
	While I was at Honor Guard, one of my favorite BM2s lost his fight with diabetes. I was honored to be able to perform my duties at Honor Gaurd and be the Petty officer in charge of his funeral. It was a powerful and humbling moment in my career.
Why I chose to adopt a pet
	I realized I was letting myself get to lax with life, I wasn't always taking care of myself, some days I didn't want to get out of bed. My boyfriend suggested getting a dog for my mental and physical health. It was the best decision I've ever made.
Why I chose to adopt through Pets for Patriots
	I hadnt even heard of the program until I was told about it at the SPCA. I went online to qualify and was so happy I did. I was able to get Max within a few days!
How my honorably adopted pet has changed my life
	Max has made my life so kuch more fulfilled. He is a loving pet, just a cuddle bug! He is always around. He sleeps with me and when I wake up from night mare he licks my face and snuggles me. He loves to go for road trips and enjoys walks and runs! He helps me stay active, even on my worst days.
What I love most about my new pet friend
	He always knows when I'm not feeling good and cuddles me extra. That, and his eyes. He has so much expression when he looks at you.
What I would tell other veterans or service members who might be thinking about adopting through Pets for Patriots
	Do it! It's the best decision I've made ever. I couldn't be happier with my buddy, who helps me make it through the worst times.

1/16/2019 So I couldn't pick just one!!! So the pictures of him are either with me, his sister, or my daughter, who he has decided is his puppy. He's super loving and cuddling!!! He has to be touching me when he lays down and he is selfish and hogs half the bed sometimes. He doing so well! He's just a happy go lucky pup!! Thank you for checking on us;!! I totally forgot y'all do that. Thank you for being so awesome and helping me get my baby boy! 1/24/2018 Hey Ted! Max is amazing! He's currently sleeping on the couch cause I'm video gaming! He's getting really good when we go on walks listening and reacting to command! He can sure eat though! Ive been trying to give him bones to chew on but they only last about a hour! Lol He's such a sweet heart! Im going to attempt to send you a picture... If it works! Thank you for checking in on us!