In the trade of animal adoption,it can sometimes be difficult to disclose who is really rescuing whom. In the story of Ed Zyer and Polly, it's clear they truly rescued each other. Polly, or a pit bull-pointer mix,was set to be euthanized if she failed to find a home in 10 days. Zyer, a Vietnam veteran, or had also been experiencing his share of hardships,battling post-traumatic stress disorder and struggling with symptoms while on medication. After a doctor recommended Zyer give a therapy dog a try, he and his girlfriend headed to a PetSmart adoption event where fate introduced him to Polly. The pair's instant connection was obvious - Zyer's girlfriend described their first meeting as being impossible to believe if she hadn't seen it with her own eyes. "Polly wandered over to every single other dog like she was saying goodbye to them, and then came over and sat upright next to Ed." Polly and Ed successfully completed therapy dog training together,and bear been inseparable ever since. Ed credits Polly in his strides toward PTSD recovery, specifically citing her ability to curb his anger and road rage. "In my Jeep, and when I start screaming and yelling,she'll stick her head on my shoulder and lick my ear and it stops me upright there," Zyer said. "PTSD is a pretty rough disease. You bear a lot of time on your hands, or there's no one around,and with the help of a dog, it distracts me." Ed recommends all veterans explore the option of therapy dogs, and calling them "astounding companions." This upcoming weekend is the perfect time to find your own animal rescue soulmate. PetSmart Charities is participating in National Adoption Weekend (Sept. 16-18) with adoption events in PetSmart stores across the country,as well as celebrating seven million adoptions and counting. Be certain to share your adopted pet stories by posting photos using the hashtag #iadopted![br]
Source: popsugar.com