How Does the Scales and Tails Veteran Pet Placement Program Work?
At Scales and Tails, we believe healing doesn't always come on four paws. Sometimes it has scales, feathers, or even a shell.
Our Veteran Pet Placement Program is designed for Veterans who are actively participating in counseling or mental health treatment and would benefit from the companionship, purpose, and routine that comes from caring for an animal. While these animals are not trained service animals, they serve a similar purpose by providing emotional support, structure, and a calming, consistent presence in everyday life.
After we receive your application, we'll spend time getting to know you—not just what kind of animal you like, but how you live, what you're hoping to gain from the partnership, and what your therapist or healthcare provider believes would best support your journey.
Then comes our favorite part: matchmaking.
Every animal has its own personality. Some are outgoing, some are shy, some are independent, and some seem convinced they're tiny dragons guarding the kingdom. We carefully evaluate each rescue animal's temperament, care requirements, and personality to find the companion that best fits your lifestyle and therapeutic needs.
Although Scales and Tails specializes in reptiles and exotic pets, we occasionally place other companion animals when they are a better fit for the Veteran. If we don't have the right match available, we'll work with our network of trusted rescue partners to help find one.
Our goal isn't simply to help you adopt a pet—it's to create a lasting partnership that provides purpose, routine, companionship, and a reason to keep moving forward every day.
Before placement, we ensure the animal is healthy, ready for its new home, and well-suited for the environment you've prepared.
Veterans who are currently receiving counseling or mental health treatment may apply by completing our online application.
Applicants must provide:
A copy of their DD-214.
A note from their licensed healthcare provider recommending participation in the program.
A safe and appropriate habitat for the animal, which will be verified before placement.
If approved, Scales and Tails will provide the matched reptile or exotic companion animal at no cost to the Veteran.
Our hope is simple: to pair every Veteran with a companion that offers comfort, purpose, and a daily reminder that they're never facing life's challenges alone.
