Mason the Goldendoodle was almost left behind in Seattle. Thanks to SPCA International supporters and a grant from the Operation Military Pets program, Mason moved to Hawaii with the family he loves.
Like many newly married couples, Kristyna and Luis Aviles added a dog to their family shortly after their wedding. Both active duty military, the Aviles say that Mason, a Goldendoodle, was their first baby. Kristyna says, “he doesn’t even know he is a dog!”
When a human baby, Troy, came along the connection with Mason was instant. Like most new parents, Luis and Kristyna were a bit worried about their dog’s response to a new baby, but Mason was immediately dedicated to the new member of his family. This dog-baby duo is so bonded, they even share toys!
With a new baby, Kristyna made the decision to not re-enlist in the military, and the family tightened their belts to accommodate the loss of a paycheck. When Luis’s orders came for a change of duty station to Hawaii, they immediately started making plans and soon found out that Mason was too big to travel checked in the cargo hold – they would have to use an expensive pet moving company. The couple worried they wouldn’t be able to afford the costly move and would have to find a new home for Mason. They were heartbroken.
They turned to SPCA International for help, through the Operation Military Pets program we were able to help defray the high cost of the pet moving company. The Aviles are so grateful for the support from SPCA International, saying “it is a great organization that kept our family together.”
SPCA International is honored to serve military families, like the Aviles, and their beloved pets. We are grateful for the support of our many donors who make programs like Operation Military Pets possible. Thank you!
