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Despite the VA's misgivings about supporting service dogs for PTSD veterans, Chicago City Clerk Susana Mendoza is an enthusiastic supporter of Pets for Vets.

"The service dogs save lives of veterans or at least keeps some out of the emergency room. And dog lives are saved," Mendoza says. "All this saves taxpayer dollars, too. This is the kind of thing government should be supporting, it's common sense. Not supporting service dogs for vets is cutting your nose to spite your face."

One shortcoming of the program is that shelters and rescue have few financial resources to provide for the training of service dogs. However, in the Chicago area, the Fifth Third Bank stepped up to offer financial support.

Andrew Hayes, VP regional marketing and public relations director says, "After hearing veterans like Ralph, how can you not get involved? It's a way to easily make a difference for both veterans, and animals who need a second chance. I believe these animals are just as grateful as the veterans."

Today, Matson volunteers to help other PTSD veterans to get a service dog with a nonprofit called War Dogs Making It Home (http://wardogsmakingithome.org/).

In her book, Libby writes about a 93-year-old World War II veteran with PTSD who at the age of 87 began a foundation to help to provide veterans with service dogs. "He raised over five million (dollars) to help others," says Libby. "Still, even now, he credits his service dog, Cash, for helping get through every day."

Matson continues petting Beef. "I can now go to the shopping mall with my wife," he says. "PTSD will never go away -- but I can better manage now. And I feel productive again."

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