Blair Whipp, a veteran who served 20 years in the National Guard and Army, faced significant challenges after her military service. Whipp struggled with depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), conditions that deeply affected her daily life.
Four years ago, an organization called Two Vets on a Mission stepped in to help Whipp in her fight against depression and PTSD. Their mission was to pair veterans suffering from these disorders with service dogs, offering them emotional support and companionship. Blair was selected to receive a dog, named Lakota.
From the moment they met, a deep bond formed between Whipp and Lakota.
“She wasn’t just a dog to me,” said Whipp. “She became my partner in my recovery, and I knew I could lean on her when times were tough.”
About a year ago, Lakota managed to escape from Whipp’s backyard. The initial panic of losing her beloved companion turned into heartache as days stretched into weeks without any sign of the dog. The emotional toll weighed heavily on Whipp, who already struggled with depression.