This isn't just any story about dog breeding. It's a story about second chances, unexpected connections, and the incredible bond between a veteran and his furry hero.
Back in '87, fresh out of high school, Elmo 'Jay' Trickett enlisted in the Marines. He embarked on a service journey that led him to serve on the Presidential Security Detail, guarding Presidents Reagan and Bush. Following that detail, he was then deployed to Saudi Arabia during Desert Storm before receiving an honorable discharge.
After returning home, Jay found himself battling PTSD. He knew he needed help, and that's where Pearl, a spunky German Shorthair Pointer puppy, enters the picture.
Fast forwarding to 2019, seeking support, Jay began to explore the companionship of a German Shorthair Pointer (GSP). Jay had almost given up when a GSP breeder named Heidi, reached out to him. As fate would have it, Heidi's son, Justin, had been a service veteran who had lost his battle with PTSD. When Heidi saw Jay's tattoo, "22 A Day," it was a powerful reminder of those lost to that struggle, and she knew in her
heart that Justin had a hand in helping her chose Jay. Once Jay met Pearl, a little GSP puppy, it was an encounter that changed everything.
From the moment they met, Jay and Pearl formed an unbreakable bond. Together, they embarked on a journey of healing through service dog training and eventually AKC Hunt testing. As Jay trained Pearl, he found himself healing as well. Pearl became not just a pet, but a source of unwavering support and purpose. When Pearl turned four, Jay's wife suggested breeding her to keep a part of her always. He reflected on his
own struggles with PTSD and how Pearl had been a lifeline for him. Inspired by Pearl's transformative impact on his life, Jay wanted to share this gift with other veterans. So he decided to breed her and donate a puppy to another veteran in need.
That's where Stacie, another GSP breeder and fellow dog lover, comes in. After hearing Jay's story, Stacie not only offered to help breed Pearl but volunteered to donate a puppy to a veteran as well. And thus, two of Pearl's puppies found their way to deserving Service Veterans.
This is the heart of Warrior Project Pearl: connecting veterans with sporting dogs and field training programs. It's about giving back, offering purpose and direction to those who have served our country so bravely. We believe that every dog-veteran connection is a story waiting to be written, a story of healing, hope, and the unwavering spirit of those who have sacrificed so much to maintain our freedoms.
OUR STORY
Meet Matthew & Maze
Having Maze, my German Shorthair Pointer, in my life has been nothing short of a blessing. As a Marine Corps combat veteran and explosive ordnance technician dealing with the weight of PTSD and traumatic brain injury, Maze's presence has brought light and healing into my life.
Growing up with German Shorthair Pointers, I always had a special connection with these loyal and intelligent companions. When Maze was gifted to me by another Marine Corps veteran, I felt a deep sense of gratitude and honor. Knowing that I was chosen among many applicants to have one of the puppies was a humbling experience, and I am truly thankful for this opportunity.
Maze's impact on my life has been profound. Her unwavering loyalty, playful spirit, and intuitive understanding have helped me navigate the challenges of PTSD and TBI. She is more than just a pet; she is a source of comfort, companionship, and joy in my life.
Training Maze from a young age has been a journey filled with growth, patience, and mutual trust. Seeing her develop into a skilled hunting partner has been a deeply rewarding experience. Being able to bird hunt with Maze by my side has not only reignited my passion for the outdoors but has also given me a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Maze represents more than just a pet; she symbolizes hope, resilience, and the bond shared between a veteran and a faithful companion. Through her presence in my life, I have found solace, strength, and a renewed sense of purpose. Maze has truly changed everything for me, and I am grateful every day for the joy and healing she has brought into my life, and thankful for Jay in gifting her to me, I owe him a dept. that cannot be re-paid.