Service Dogs

Service Dogs are trained to help veterans with PTSD. The rehabilitation program trains rescue dogs to become service animals. The service dogs are then paired with veterans and first responders. We work with several organizations to provide this service and partner with them in finding veterans that need service dogs.

Many service members, who have suffered physical or psychological harm and have returned to civilian life, may find it incredibly challenging. According to some estimates, up to 20% of returning service members and veterans experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).  

According to many studies, professionally trained PTS service dogs can ease afflicted veterans' stress and anxiety, lower their sadness, help them reintegrate into society more easily, and provide them comfort and confidence. Service dogs improve the veteran's quality of life and mental health. Many valiant Veterans, who desire to return to their regular life, are able to with the help of a faithful canine companion.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, (PTSD) includes symptoms of flashbacks to the traumatic event, severe anxiety, nightmares, and hypervigilance. Studies have shown that when veterans are partnered with service dogs, they experience less anger, and anxiety, get better sleep and have been shown to improve their cortisol levels. Service dogs, affectionately known as "battle buddies" or "warrior dogs" have significantly improved the lives of many veterans. Army Master Sergeant David Crenshaw, of Kearny, New Jersey stated in an interview that his service dog Doc, helped him navigate being at Disney World. He stated, "I was not agitated. I was not anxious. I was not upset," "It was truly, truly amazing and so much so that I didn't even have to even stop to think about it in the moment. It just happened naturally." Before Doc, his combat-caused PTSD, prevented him from being able to be in large crowds.