Transitioning back into your old life after returning from overseas is a challenge for some veterans because of the long term effects of combat on your body and mind. For some, the transition becomes too difficult to manage alone. Chris Goener suffered from PTSD after returning from duty, but thanks to the non-profit company Puppies Behind Bars he now has a companion to help him handle his anxiety and stress. This 90 pound yellow lab helps comfort Chris when he is out in public. The fluffy companion provides a sense of security, and is there to distract and reassure Chris from any potential threats.

While overseas, many troops form close emotional bonds with the stray dogs that roam the streets. The dogs helped them cope and heal emotionally and saved their spirits while they were away from home for so long. One organization is partnering with soldiers and the stray dogs that they have found in order to reunite them together once again once they return home. As one soldier puts it, "He helped me survive out there, and now I'm going to give him a home and allow him to survive."

On an Army outpost in Southern Afghanistan, Sgt. Jesse Knott was losing hope. The rigors of deployment were catching up, as they often do, causing what Jesse describes as “dark times.” Then the unexpected happened...

A list of our top five photos of soldiers with their favorite animal companions.

Awwww... military homecomings are the best, aren't they? There's nothing more fulfilling than watching our brave soldiers being greeted by their family and loved ones after a long period of deployment. One such soldier, PFC Carsen L. Clark from Wisconsin had only one request when he returned from Afghanistan "Just bring my dog!" WATCH NOW!

He knew he had to return the favor.

This Patriot’s Day, while we mourn the losses of this tragic anniversary, we can also pause for a moment to reflect on the gains and growth of the past twelve years. We can share those small stories that demonstrate the principles and values expressed in our daily lives, often in our actions rather than our words — actions as simple as saving a scared dog from an unruly mob.

It's clear that these two missed their military dad!

Did you know that over 1/3 of vets returning home from war in Iraq and Afghanistan are suffering from PTSD. Watch as man's best friend is now being enlisted to help out those our nation's bravest men and women!

Watch this adorable video of a soldier meeting a pooch she saved while in Iraq. It doesn't get more real and heartwarming than this!