Today, Texas Land Commissioner and Veterans Land Board (VLB) Chairwoman Dawn Buckingham, M.D. announced that the American Red Cross, Texas Gulf Coast Region, Service to the Armed Forces will present 30 robotic therapy dogs and cats to the Veterans at the Richard A. Anderson Texas State Veterans Home in Houston on Valentines Day, February 14, 2024 at 11 a.m.

“It has been an honor for the VLB to work with the American Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces and provide greater care and comfort to Veterans residing in our Texas State Veterans Homes,” said Commissioner Buckingham. “‘Operation Animal Love’ events are one of the many important tools we use to expand opportunities for support to Texas Veterans.”

“For the last three years, we have delivered our robotic animals to the Texas State Veterans Home in Houston,” said Kimberly Knights, Director of the American Red Cross, Texas Gulf Coast Region, Service to the Armed Forces. “I chose the Veterans home to receive these because of the benefits they provide to the memory care patients and family. Our department provides comfort and care to our veterans through the generosity of donors and the precious gift of volunteers.”

These unique robotic pets have been shown to help decrease stress and agitation while providing owners with responsibility, caring and structure. They are also able to remain with their owners, providing around-the-clock support for Veterans and other patients.

The event in Houston will be attended by American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast Region board members, the CEO and Executive Director. “Operation Animal Love” helps tell the story of what the American Red Cross does for our Veterans.