PHOTO GALLERY: Veterans, dogs help each other in training program

November 19, 2012 | 5:23 p.m. CST

The Veterans and Shelter Dogs program, run through the Research Center for Human-Animal Interaction at MU, is meant to provide veterans with a stress-reducing experience while helping shelter dogs learn the skills they need to be adopted.

Bryce Menges gives Layla, a pit bull who was recently adopted from the Central Missouri Humane Society, a kiss before they begin their training session at the Columbia Canine Sports Center. Menges is a participant in the Veterans and Shelter Dogs Initiative, started by the College of Veterinary Medicine's Research Center of Human Animal Interaction. In the program, veterans are chosen to train shelter dogs to increase the animal's chances of adoption while also helping the veterans reintegrate into society. | Jaime Henry-White

Dog trainer Judy Steiner instructs Veterans and Shelter Dogs Initiative participants on how to direct their dogs during training at the Columbia Canine Sports Center. | Jaime Henry-White

Veterans and Shelter Dogs Initiative project coordinator Elliott Cade, left, pets Layla, a pit bull, as volunteer Sara Bryan scratches the ears of April, a doberman, before the dogs begin their training session. | Jaime Henry-White

Veterans and Shelter Dogs Initiative volunteers and participants walk dogs from the Central Missouri Humane Society. | Jaime Henry-White