Army veteran's animal rescue offers free adoptions to service members

Z's Rescue and Relocation to participate in Big Give SA

SAN ANTONIO – Lance Ziebell started Z's Rescue and Relocation out of a love for animals, and one in particular that he said helped save his life.

"If a dog can save my life, he can save somebody else's life," Ziebell said.

Ziebell's love for animals grew when he rescued a pit bull that became his service dog, Joker.

An Army combat veteran, Ziebell battled thoughts of suicide after returning from a tour of duty in Iraq.

"Anytime you pet a dog, it releases endorphins in your body and it calms you down," Ziebell said. "My dog has saved my life numerous times."

Z's Rescue and Relocation offers free adoptions to veterans and active military members to help those who struggle with mental illness.

Not only is Ziebell helping others, he is also helping the dogs in the rescue.

Most dogs are rescued off the streets and have been injured or left behind, and others have been saved from euthanasia.

Ziebell's nonprofit gets its help from volunteers and donations put toward food, blankets, vaccinations and any other care the dogs need.

"We do this because we love the dogs," Ziebell said. "We don't do this for any other reason."

The rescue is located off Highway 181 in Wilson County. It will be one of the hundreds of organizations looking to benefit from the Big Give SA May 3.

For more on how to donate, click here.


About the Author:

Erica Hernandez is an Emmy award-winning journalist with 15 years of experience in the broadcast news business. Erica has covered a wide array of stories all over Central and South Texas. She's currently the court reporter and cohost of the podcast Texas Crime Stories.