As a freshman, sociology major Deanna Hafley ’25 knew she wanted to be involved on campus and support veterans. What she didn’t know was how much of an impact that kind of selfless service would have on her life.

Inspired by her father, a veteran, Hafley visited the Veteran’s Resource and Support Center during her New Student Conference. Among the various organizations presented, one stood out: Patriot Paws.

Patriot Paws of Aggieland raises and trains service dogs for disabled veterans at no cost to them. Members of the organization go through a semester long training process that includes weekly training classes and shadowing. Then, members can become approved handlers and puppy raisers. Hafley’s current pup-in-training, Fuse, is almost ready to meet the veteran he will be helping. Each puppy raiser typically cares for a dog for 90 to 120 days, while training spans two to three years, meaning Fuse has been passed between several puppy raisers.

Dogs like Fuse are trained to aid veterans with mobility and post traumatic stress disorder. The dogs learn tasks such as picking up dropped items, opening doors, and and helping their handlers navigate triggering or stressful situations.

Over the past four years, Hafley has had the chance to work with several pups and relished the fact that they have gone on to change lives. “I know he's got a way bigger purpose than me,” she said of Fuse. “It’ll be hard for him to leave me, but I know he'll be going to help someone else. That’s all I ever ask of him, is to go change someone else's life.”

Hafley has gotten so much more out her experience with Patriot Paws than just some furry friends – she’s made connections and learned skills that have changed her life for the better. She said she’s learned time management and made new friends but most of all, she’s learned how to lead a life of service.

“For a lot of veterans, their life begins when they get their dog.” Hafley said. “I feel like as Aggies we try to help other people and Patriot Paws really exemplifies selfless service.”

For students who want to get involved with Patriot Paws, the organization recruits year- round. The organization has opportunities for students to become general members or to dive in and complete the semester long training required to become puppy raisers. For more information on Patriot Paws, visit the organization’s website.