Partnership with Chris’s Hero Pets
At the New Hampshire Humane Society, we take adoptions seriously. That’s why we’re on track to reach 1,000 adoptions in 2026.
To put that into perspective, we ended 2025 with 696 adoptions - which is a big number in itself. When you think about how many lives are changed through each adoption, both animal and human, the impact is truly immeasurable. Every adoption creates a ripple effect, and that impact continues long after an animal walks out our doors.
Behind those adoptions are many programs that help make our work possible. Our Adoption Team takes great pride in finding the right match for each animal and each person, while also connecting adopters with resources and programs that can make a meaningful difference.
Today, we’re highlighting a newer program for us: Chris’s Hero Pets.
Chris’s Hero Pets is a program that covers the cost of adoption for veterans, helping make companion animals more accessible to those who have served our country. We know the bond between people and animals can be incredibly meaningful, and for veterans who may be navigating the effects of PTSD or other challenges after service, that companionship can be especially important.
The program was created by Jo-Ann Clark in honor of her son, Chris Journeau. Rather than tell her story for her, we want to share her own words:
“In Chris’ honor, and to bring awareness to PTSD, I’ve teamed up with Hero Pups to create Chris’ Hero Pets, a program that pays for companion animals for our Veterans.
Six months after returning home from serving in the Army fighting in Iraq, my son, Chris Journeau, only 23, took his own life.
He was showing common signs of PTSD, such as drinking and anger issues, but not being familiar with PTSD, I dismissed them.
I wanted to do something positive to help veterans and their families be more aware of PTSD, and try to prevent another one from taking their life.
In my heart, I feel that if Chris had a companion animal to bond with when he came home, the outcome could have been completely different.”
— Jo-Ann Clark, Gold Star Mom of Chris Journeau
This may not be an easy topic to talk about, but it is an important one. Chris’s story is a reminder of the importance of recognizing the signs of PTSD, starting conversations, and making sure veterans and their families know that support is available.
We are honored to offer Chris’s Hero Pets at the New Hampshire Humane Society and to be part of a program created from Chris’s memory and Jo-Ann’s desire to help other veterans.
If you’re a veteran looking for a companion animal, we would be honored to help you find your match.
