What if the therapy program that saved a veteran's life had to close because they couldn't afford a vet bill?
David Vieira is an Army Afghanistan veteran and founder of K9 Equine Alliance, a nonprofit that provides financial support to organizations offering service dogs and equine therapy to veterans struggling with PTSD, TBI, and MST. After building the first Afghanistan and Iraq Veterans War Memorial in Connecticut, David realized the unsexy but critical work that needed to be done—keeping therapy programs alive by covering hay bills, vet emergencies, and farrier costs. He created K9 Equine Alliance to cover the costs no one else would, and now supports over 50 partner organizations across 28 states. David travels the country visiting farms, responds to emergency calls on weekends, and operates with 100% volunteer support so every dollar goes directly to the animals. He's also the ghostwriter behind Wyatt Strother, a music project that honors fallen brothers and raises awareness for alternative therapies.
In this episode, you'll discover:• Why many equine therapy programs are one emergency vet bill away from closing• How Mustangs specifically give veterans a mission in ways other horses don't• What makes equine therapy and service dog programs more effective than traditional VA treatment for many veterans• Why veterans need community and purpose • What David learned touring the country visiting 50+ partner organizations• How K9 Equine Alliance operates is 100% volunteer-run
This episode is for anyone who works with veterans and horses, anyone seeking alternative healing methods, and anyone who wants to support the critical work of keeping therapy programs alive.
Connect with David Vieira & K9 Equine Alliance:
Website: https://k9equinealliance.org
Heroes Gala (June 13): https://k9equinealliance.org/news-events/event/2026/06/13/2026-heroes-gala-paws-hooves-and-hope/541693
Social Media:
Website: www.k9equinealliance.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560410920660
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veteransk9equinealliance/
YouTube Tour Series:https://www.youtube.com/@VeteransK9EquineAlliance
Support Horses for Mental Health Campaign:
Samson's Sustainable Veterans Project: https://horsesformentalhealth.org/campaigns/david-vieira/
Campaign: Horses for Mental Health 2026
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Download the 5-Minute Emotional Reset: https://thetouchofamustang.org/get-your-free-reset/
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Get the Emotional Mastery Journal - your 6-month guide to emotional awareness and regulation: https://www.amazon.com/Emotional-Mastery-Journal-Shalyce-Cluff/dp/B0DQXV59SW
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