The Latest
April 18, 2025

Where Every Family Matters

"Madonna" from Williamson County Animal Center.

Animal Center Offers “Pets for Patriots”

Helps military veterans adopt while giving the most overlooked animals a forever home.

Williamson County Animal Center (WCAC) provides eligible adopters with information about the Pets for Patriots adoption program, which promotes the human-animal bond and makes lifetime pet guardianship more affordable.

“We help shelters inspire the adoption of the more overlooked animals in their care,” says Beth Zimmerman, Pets for Patriots executive director. “At the same time, veterans find a new sense of purpose through the unconditional love of a shelter pet who has been given a second, maybe even a third, chance at life.”

Veterans must first apply to Pets for Patriots online (www.petsforpatriots.org) and provide relevant eligibility documents. Approval typically takes no more than two business days, after which veterans can visit WCAC to find their new best friend.

“Through Pets for Patriots, we have an opportunity to honor active military members and veterans for their service while finding forever homes for the animals in our care,” says WCAC director, Ondrea Johnson. “It’s a win-win for everyone.”

Animals eligible for adoption through Pets for Patriots include dogs and cats who are adult, special needs or long-term homeless, as well as larger breed dogs. The program is open to veterans from WWII to those in active duty.

Approved applicants receive discounted adoption fees, ‘welcome home’ contributions towards pet food and other basics, as well as access to high-quality affordable veterinary care and discounts on other goods and services.

WCAC is located at 1006 Grigsby Hayes Court in Franklin. Take Highway 96 West to Carlisle Lane, left on Roy F. Alley Court (formerly Old Charlotte Pike) and is open to the public Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.; closed Sunday.

Pet of the Week  

Madonna is a loving and sweet, five-year old female retriever.  She has a low to moderate energy level and already knows how to sit and come.  She can be nervous and timid around other dogs and has been known to bark or growl while on her leash but she really loves people.  Madonna is being treated for heart worms.  So, get into the groove and come visit Madonna and all the adorable adoptables at WCAC!

 

READ MORE WILLIAMSON COUNTY PARENT NEWS!

About the Author

Michael Aldrich

Michael Aldrich is Nashville Parent's Managing Editor and a Middle Tennessee arts writer. He and his wife, Alison, are the proud parents of 4-year-old Ezra and baby Norah.