DENVER — It’s the story that’s been heard many times at Sox Place. Abusive parents, drugs, alcohol … runaway kids.

Founded in 2002, Sox Place is a safe place for young people. It provides food, clothing, friendship, a place to relax, if just for a little bit.

And now, Sox Place is providing free veterinarian care for their dogs and cats. That was welcome news for 26-year-old Louis Peters and Dagger the dog, “Who’s a little pit, a little heeler, and a whole lotta’ mutt,” said Peters.

Peters picked up Dagger in Oregon three months ago when Dagger was just a pup. “Head to toe, covered in fleas. His ear was all chewed away, no hair on it and … I’ll take him. Give him to me, right now.”

Born in Florida, ward of the state of Michigan, now in Colorado, Peters says his only family member is Dagger.

At Sox Place in Denver, a vet clinic was set up providing exams, shots, cleaning, food and counseling, all free of charge. “Thankfully enough I get to look after him in a way I haven’t been able to, so, that’s really important,” Peters said.

After the visit, shots and a clean bill of health for Dagger, it’s now time to look ahead. “We’ve got to hope something happens until winter hits, because he can’t. Dogs are hardy for the winter, but not that hardy., said Peters.

Louis Peters isn’t sure what he’ll do next, or where to go, but one thing is for certain, Dagger will be by his side.