Service Dogs for Veterans
Trained companions that help veterans navigate PTSD, anxiety, mobility challenges, and the transition to civilian life. Free programs available for qualifying veterans.
OUR DOGS
Meet Our Dogs
Each dog is individually trained for specific veteran needs
Ranger
German Shepherd2 years | Trainer: Sarah Mitchell
Ranger is a calm, steadfast German Shepherd trained to recognize and interrupt PTSD episodes. He excels at deep pressure therapy and creating personal space in crowded environments. Ideal companion for veterans dealing with hypervigilance and nightmares.
Luna
Golden Retriever3 years | Trainer: James Ortiz
Luna brings warmth and intuitive emotional awareness. She is trained to detect anxiety attacks before they escalate, perform grounding tasks, and provide calming tactile stimulation. Her gentle demeanor makes her perfect for veterans transitioning to civilian life.
Bear
Labrador Retriever2.5 years | Trainer: Sarah Mitchell
Bear is a strong, reliable Lab in advanced training for mobility assistance and medical alert. He is learning to brace for balance support, retrieve items, open doors, and alert to changes in blood sugar or blood pressure. Expected graduation: August 2026.
Shadow
Belgian Malinois3 years | Trainer: James Ortiz
Shadow is an exceptionally alert Malinois matched with a combat veteran. Trained in nightmare interruption, perimeter checks, and tactical positioning to help his handler feel safe in public. Currently in the bonding and transition phase.
Daisy
Standard Poodle2 years | Trainer: Sarah Mitchell
Daisy is a hypoallergenic Standard Poodle ideal for veterans with allergies. She is in intermediate training for anxiety interruption and medical alert tasks. Her intelligence and eagerness to please make her a quick learner.
Duke
Labrador Retriever4 years | Trainer: James Ortiz
Duke is a graduated service dog now living with his veteran handler in the Chicago metro area. He assists with mobility, PTSD episode interruption, and daily tasks. Duke represents what our program can achieve for veterans in need.
PROGRAMS
Training Programs
Professional programs designed specifically for veteran needs
PTSD & Trauma Response
Comprehensive training program pairing veterans with dogs trained to recognize and respond to PTSD symptoms including flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety attacks, and hypervigilance.
Psychiatric Service Dog
Training program for dogs that assist with psychiatric disabilities including depression, bipolar disorder, and severe anxiety. Dogs learn medication reminders, safety checks, and emotional regulation support.
Mobility & Medical Alert
Specialized program for veterans with physical disabilities or medical conditions. Dogs are trained in bracing, balance support, item retrieval, door operation, and medical alerting.
Veteran & Dog Together (VDT)
Train your own dog to become a service animal. This hands-on program lets veterans actively participate in training their personal dog, building an even deeper bond while learning professional handling skills.
VETERAN STORIES
Veteran Stories
Real veterans, real impact
“Before Duke, I couldn't go to the grocery store without a panic attack. Now we go everywhere together. He wakes me up from nightmares before they get bad, and he gives me a reason to get out of bed every morning. This program saved my life.”
“The transition from military to civilian life was the hardest thing I ever did. Athena helps me feel safe again. She watches my back so I don't have to. The training program also connected me with other vets going through the same thing.”
“After my TBI, I struggled with balance and memory. Moose helps me stay steady on my feet, reminds me to take my meds, and keeps me grounded when things get foggy. The team made sure he was trained specifically for my needs.”
“I trained Maple through the VDT program and it was the most therapeutic experience of my life. Learning together, building trust together - it gave me purpose again. She knows when I'm about to spiral before I do.”
GET STARTED
Ready to find your companion?
Every veteran deserves support. Our programs are free or heavily subsidized for qualifying veterans. Start your application today.