Companion, Skilled Companion & Service Dogs

Website

companionsforheroes.org

What is your idea to address an unmet need of service members, veterans and their families?

Every eight seconds an animal is put to sleep, and every day, eighteen vets commit suicide. Companions for Heroes believes with your help we can turn the darkest days around for both by providing companion, skilled companion and service dogs obtained through shelters.

What specific population do you plan to work with? What is their unmet need?

Veterans, active military personnel and first-responders. There are over 700,000 veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and/or Traumatic Brain Injury. 4-5 million dogs/cats are euthanized each year. Companion, skilled companion and service dogs meet the psychological, emotional and physical needs of many of our nations heroes.

What is your implementation plan, and how would the $1,000 be used?

These special dogs are provided at no cost to the veteran or first-responder. Your support would go directly to help support the cost of training a skilled companion or service dog.

How are volunteers the key ingredient to your solution?

Volunteers are the backbone of Companions for Heroes. Without volunteers we would not exist. Our dedicated volunteers provide countless hours interacting with veterans and first-responders who request our services, reaching out to shelters and humane societies and who assist with selecting and training of the dog. Volunteers provided much needed and appreciated assistance with public education and outreach.

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