Recently, three members of the American Legion Post 295 Family from Maryland traveled to Ukraine, visiting both the Patron Pet Center in Kyiv and the Superhumans Center in Lviv. Their mission: to help train local dog handlers in Mission-Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR), a program developed by SAL member Rick Yount, founder of Warrior Canine Connection (WCC). Yount, who established WCC in 2011, was joined by a father-and-son team - SFC Bob Ouellette and SFC Joe Ouellette - both retired from the U.S. Army.
Brought together by a shared purpose, the Superhumans Center and Patron Pet Center are united in a common goal: to support Ukrainians and the animals affected by war. Together, they are exploring innovative approaches to trauma recovery - human and animal alike - through the implementation of MBTR principles.
The ongoing war in Ukraine has caused immense suffering, not only for its people but also for thousands of animals left homeless, injured or deeply traumatized. Many pets, including cats and dogs, were abandoned in bombed-out cities, wounded by shelling, or orphaned when their families fled or were killed. These vulnerable beings now depend on human compassion to survive.
The Patron Pet Center is at the forefront of this effort. By incorporating the MBTR model, the center is advancing a dual mission: supporting both the psychological healing of veterans and civilians, and rehabilitating animals affected by the war. At Patron, dogs and cats receive veterinary care, nourishment, shelter and - most importantly - love and security. A dedicated team of volunteers and veterinarians works tirelessly to give them a second chance at peace.
Meanwhile, the Superhumans Center stands as a world-class clinic specializing in the treatment and rehabilitation of war victims. It offers expertise in orthopedic trauma, reconstructive and plastic surgery, maxillofacial surgery, ear, nose and throat (ENT) care, as well as physical and psychological rehabilitation. The center’s integrated approach to healing makes it a vital partner in Ukraine’s long-term recovery.
Together, these partnerships are laying the foundation for a global model of trauma-informed care - where healing comes through purpose, connection and compassion.
