This veteran is using his service dog to regain independence

ST. LOUIS, Mo. (InvestigateTV) - Veteran James Poggi served in the Marine Corps working in aviation. His time in the military led to a lifelong strain on his body, including five back surgeries and a below-the-knee amputation.“You go from being six foot three, 250 pounds and able to travel halfway across the world and do whatever they ask you to do, to being relying on wheelchairs, walkers, mobility devices, things like that, you become a vulnerable person that you never thought you’d be,” Poggi said.Poggi said he was in multiple accidents, hard landings, PT accidents and a car crash. He also developed spinal meningitis.“And that was all while I was active,” he said.To help ease some of the emotional toll, Poggi’s wife, who is also his caregiver, suggested he get a service dog.Service dog provides daily supportPoggi got Teddy, a Goldendoodle, who serves as his service dog and daily lifeline.“You never went anywhere without your battle buddy. And he always, always better have your back.