As many of you know, PAWS/LA is launching a new program called PROJECT PETSTRONG to help Veterans with PTSD keep and care for their companion animals.

We want to spread the word about our new program and the fact that we've been helping low-income seniors and People Living with HIV/AIDS maintain their pets since the late 80s.

PROJECT PETSTRONG is special because it is designed to ease the financial, physical and emotional challenges of caring for a companion animal, both in and outside of the home.

This weekend, Kevin and Bella shared their story on 102.7 KIIS FM's Community Council show. Click below to hear their interview:

This weekend, our friends at LA Frontrunners, the LGBT running club organization with a long history of raising funds and collecting goods for local charities,  held their first Doggie Dash 5K.

The fun-run and fundraiser benefiting PAWS/LA took place on Sunday, October 23rd, in the Crystal Springs Picnic Area in Griffith Park. The run was a  3.1-mile loop around the golf course. 

The morning festivities started at 7:30 a.m. with a "human only 5k", then at 8:15 the real fun began, the "Human and Pups 5K!" More than 50 runners and their dogs were at the starting-line, ready to show their stuff.

Tails were wagging, smiles and high-fives were shared. And of course, there was plenty of water stops for both human and doggie athletes.

The fastest participants finished the race in less than 17 minutes, while other participants and their pets leisurely strolled the 5K and enjoyed the views of the golf course.

Kevin L., 55, is a Veteran of the United States Air Force. His best friend and constant companion is a little black Chihuahua named Miss Bella. Kevin depends on her for companionship and the unconditional love that only a beloved emotional support animal can provide. She looks to him for shelter, food and affection.

When Kevin fell on hard times and could no longer take care of Bella on his own, he turned to PAWS/LA for help. The nonprofit, which has been assisting low-income pet guardians in Los Angeles since 1989, provided them with free pet food, supplies and veterinary care when they needed it most.