San Diego Self Storage recently visited Shelter to Soldier, a nonprofit based in Oceanside that transforms the lives of military veterans and rescue dogs through highly specialized training and long-term support. As part of our ongoing commitment to community involvement across San Diego, Murrieta, and Temecula, our team had the opportunity to tour their facility, meet the trainers, and spend time with the dogs in their program, including the rescue dog we are proud to sponsor.
Meeting Bruno, a Rescue Dog Preparing for His Future Veteran
During our visit, our team met Bruno, a loving stray rescued from Arizona. He was originally taken in by someone who did not want him entering a shelter system, and today he is thriving at Shelter to Soldier. Bruno recently passed his CDC evaluation, which means he is officially ready to begin “speed dating” with veterans to find his perfect match.
When veterans arrive, they typically meet two or three dogs and discuss what they are looking for in a service companion. Some need a dog who can join them on long runs or hikes, while others are looking for a comforting partner for emotional support at home. The matching process at Shelter to Soldier is organic, intuitive, and built entirely on personality and compatibility.
How the Program Supports Veterans
One of the most inspiring parts of the visit was learning how accessible the veteran application process is. Veterans only need letters of recommendation from a mental health provider and proof of stable housing. They never pay for their dog or the training program. Sponsors like San Diego Self Storage help remove financial barriers, ensuring veterans can focus completely on healing and growth.
Shelter to Soldier offers each veteran:
- A fully trained service dog
- A year to 18 months of customized training
- Education on dog care and handling
- Free grooming services
- Long-term follow up
- A supportive community with events such as Thanksgiving potlucks, Halloween dress-up gatherings, and more
This community support helps sustain camaraderie and connection long after graduation.
Behind the Scenes at Shelter to Soldier
Trainers at Shelter to Soldier take on about ten dogs at a time. The organization currently works with approximately 36 dogs in various stages of training. Each dog receives personalized support based on the needs of their future veteran, including specialized skills such as seizure response, travel support, outdoor activity readiness, and emotional regulation.
While Shelter to Soldier primarily serves Southern California, the organization also supports a handful of out-of-state veterans each year who began their training at the Oceanside location. Their long-term vision is to expand and serve veterans nationwide.
San Diego Self Storage Strongly Supports Local Heroes
As part of our companywide commitment to giving back, San Diego Self Storage partners with nonprofits throughout the region, including the San Diego Food Bank, Kids for Peace, and holiday campaigns like Toys for Tots. Our continued support of Shelter to Soldier aligns with our mission to uplift the communities we serve and help create meaningful impact across San Diego County.
Visiting the facility gave our team a firsthand look at the incredible work being done and reinforced why we proudly sponsor this life-changing organization.
To learn more about Shelter to Soldier, volunteer opportunities, or ways to contribute, you can visit their website at:
https://www.sheltertosoldier.org/