THE V.A.A.C.I.
(The Veteran Aligned Animal Companion Initiative)
Honoring the Bond Beyond Service.
Helping veterans with critical and end-of-life veterinary care for the animals who have stood beside them.
This initiative is in memory of Riley, a precious soul lost too soon but who made a huge impact. Riley was rescued at just 5 weeks and immediately her owner, Steve, understood how precious she was. Just a puppy, Riley constantly understood the air around her and could pick up when moods changed, especially with Steve. Dealing with his own trauma from his time in the Marine Corps, Steve needed a dog that provided that silent, unwavering support when the world around him became too much. Through training and perseverance, Riley became the most beautiful example of love and support, and a light that Steve so desperately needed. The best thing about Riley was her hugs. Genuine and never-ending, she provided them to Steve at his hardest moments, but she also gave them to anyone who needed to feel comfort. Riley's gentle demeanor and calm nature around others made her a favorite with anyone who met her. Over the last 9.5 years of her life, she impacted Steve through growth, change, and a provision of strength he needed to heal from his PTSD. In June 2026, after a quick checkup on a random cough, Riley was diagnosed with aggressive lung cancer that was moving quickly. On June 22nd, we utilized a home hospice service to lay her to rest. This was the hardest thing that we have ever been through, and the loss was felt across so many lives she touched. In honor of Riley, we want every veteran to have the opportunity to give the special gift of care to their service animal, to show them love and comfort on their last day instead of a hard, cold table. Funds should never come between a veteran and the beautiful animal that changed their world. The Shaw family gives special thanks to anyone who donates to this special cause to support our veterans during such a hard time.
WHY VAACI?
THEY WERE THERE FOR US.
WE'LL BE THERE FOR THEM.​
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The Veteran Aligned Animal Companion Initiative was created from a simple idea: companionship can be powerful.
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For veterans navigating life after service, having an animal by their side can provide connection, comfort, routine and a sense of purpose.
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Through VAACI, Roscoe’s Gold Star Rockers is expanding its mission beyond the stage and finding another meaningful way to uplift the veteran community.
VAACI exists to help veterans facing critical and end-of-life veterinary decisions for the animals who share their lives. Whether a retired service animal that once served beside them or a beloved companion who came into their life afterward, VAACI helps ensure financial hardship does not stand between a veteran and compassionate care for their animal, honoring the bond beyond service.
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Our goal is to help create lasting connections between veterans and animals while building a network of people who believe no veteran should have to navigate life alone.
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THREE IMPACT AREAS
Veteran Support
VAACI stands beside veterans when their animal companions need them most. By easing the financial burden of critical and end-of-life veterinary care, we help veterans make compassionate decisions based on what is best for their animal—not simply what they can afford.
Animal Care Assistance
VAACI provides a lifeline for the animals who have shared our veterans’ journeys. From life-saving medical procedures and emergency veterinary care to humane end-of-life services and memorial support, we help ensure retired service animals and veteran-owned companion animals receive dignity, compassion, and care when it matters most.
Community Support
VAACI brings communities together to honor the bond between veterans and their animals. Through partnerships with veterinarians, businesses, donors, and community organizations, we create a network of support that reminds veterans they do not have to face these difficult moments alone.
HOW CAN VAACI HELP?
Whether you need assistance, want to support the mission, or want to partner with VAACI, start here.
