As a military brat with a dad in the Marine Corps for over 20 years, I’ve always understood the deep bond between service members and their pets. Growing up with many pets through the years, I know firsthand how much they mean to our families.
That’s why I’m honored to celebrate the incredible stories of Cooper, Koda, and Nala—finalists in the 2025 Dogs on Deployment (DoD) mascot competition—through handmade etched portraits from Greyboy Pet Prints.
Cooper: A Lifesaving Companion
Cooper is more than just a service dog—he’s a lifeline for his handler, Lottie, an Air Force veteran battling complex PTSD. After experiencing trauma during her military service, Lottie struggled with anxiety, nightmares, and even leaving her home.
But Cooper changed everything. He alerts her to panic attacks, wakes her from nightmares, and even detects low blood sugar. Together, they travel the country, helping fellow veterans navigate the VA system and fight for their rights. With Cooper by her side, Lottie has regained the confidence to face the world and make a difference for others.
Cooper, an adorable Corgi, received a complimentary mini custom pet portrait by Greyboy Pet Portraits as a gift for being amazing and being one of the top finalists in the Dogs on Deployment Mascot Competition for 2025.
Koda: A Joyful Morale Booster
Koda, a lovable National Guard pup, spreads joy wherever he goes. His handler, Oriana, brings him to work and weekend drills, where he boosts morale among fellow soldiers with his endless affection. Oriana has personally benefited from DoD’s Hero Pet Boarding Network, ensuring Koda had a safe place while she was away on duty.
Now, she’s on a mission to spread awareness about DoD’s programs so more service members know they don’t have to choose between their pets and their service.
Koda is always there to welcome Oriana home, his wagging tail a symbol of love and loyalty. Koda also received a complimentary mini custom dog portrait by Greyboy Pet Portraits celebrating the unconditional love he provides.
Nala: A Symbol of Resilience
Nala, a Husky mix, became a beacon of hope for her National Guard family after a devastating house fire. When National Guard reservist Brent’s home burned down while he was deployed, his family lost not only their home but also some of their beloved pets.
Miraculously, firefighters rescued Nala, who remained a source of comfort through the family’s grief and uncertainty. With nowhere to keep Nala during their transition, the Carlsons turned to Dogs on Deployment, which found a loving foster home for her.
Thanks to DoD, Nala was able to reunite with her family once they rebuilt, proving that through hardship, love and resilience prevail. Nala and her family received a handmade dog portrait in 8×10 mat by Greyboy Pet Portraits to celebrate Nala and her resilience.
How You Can Support Dogs on Deployment
Dogs on Deployment ensures peace of mind for America’s Heroes by connecting pets with loving volunteers during service commitments.
They provide an online network for service members to find volunteer boarders, advocate for military pet owner rights, offer educational resources, and grant financial assistance during emergencies. Their mission is to keep pets with their families and out of shelters, providing vital assistance to military pet owners serving our country.
Want to support Dogs on Deployment? Follow them on social media or sign up for their newsletter at dogsondeployment.org. A portion of the proceeds from custom pet portrait etchings by Greyboy goes back to support DoD’s mission!
When you purchase artwork at GreyboyPetPortraits.com please in the notes section while checking out, write “Dogs on Deployment” to ensure 25% of the sale goes back to DoD!
A Personal Thank You
It’s been an honor to create these mini-etched portraits as a gift to Cooper, Koda, and Nala for their inspiring work. If you’d like your own custom pet portrait, you can order through Greyboy Pet Prints to give back to military families. Write in the notes of your order “Dogs on Deployment” and I’ll donate a portion of the sale back to help more pets like these 3 through Dogs on Deployment!
These dogs, like so many others, prove that pets are more than companions—they are healers, protectors, and unwavering sources of love. Let’s help keep military families and their pets together!
