Hero and His Warrior Dareka – Together A New Leash on Life

In 2019, OceanFirst Foundation was honored with the opportunity to name a service dog sponsored by the Lt Dennis W Zilinski II Meml Fund. Fast forward to 2021, Hero entered K9s For Warriors training kennel. Hero decided it was time for a career change and became a loving family dog.

But a new Hero saved the day! Hero came over from the K9’s prison program, with a jump start on his skills. We’re proud to announce that Hero has passed his final service dog skills test and was united with his warrior, Dareka, an Army Veteran from Missouri!

“Hero is like me in so many ways which is why I believe we connected since day one. The day that he handed me his paw without me asking for it showed me that he has my back from here on out. This experience at K9s For Warriors has been amazing. Having someone that is not a human, that couldn’t possibly let you down, will be by far the best decision I made for myself,” said Army veteran Dareka.

“Our work wouldn’t be possible without the support of our incredible donors,” said K9s For Warriors CEO Rory Diamond. “OceanFirst Foundation’s generosity allowed us to rescue a dog from a shelter in Georgia and give him new purpose. Now as a highly-trained Service Dog, he will help his Warrior take new steps toward a life of dignity and independence.”

We wish nothing but the best for Dareka & Hero as these two battle buddies share a “new leash on life!” Congratulations!