Training Rescue Dogs as Service Dogs for Veterans

This year, Canines With a Cause proudly marks its 15th anniversary, a significant milestone that invites us to reflect on the incredible journey and countless lives touched since our founding. We’ve given countless rescue dogs a second chance at life, connecting them with veterans and witnessing transformations that go far beyond just training a dog.

It's important to note that this milestone isn't just about our past achievements; it's a stark reminder of the profound needs that still exist within the veteran community. With alarming statistics like the 6,398 veteran suicides in 2023 (as reported by the VA) and PTSD remaining a critical service-connected mental health condition, our mission to support veterans long after their combat service is more vital than ever.

Fifteen years in, our passion to help veterans find healing through the power of a service dog is stronger than ever.

Every day, we witness the incredible, life-changing power of the human-animal bond at Canines With a Cause—often, the true magic unfolds long before a dog is fully task-trained.

Take, for instance, one of our stroke survivor clients. He navigates the world with limited use of an arm and relies on a cane or scooter. While working with dogs demands dexterity and quick movements, modifying our training for him has been a rewarding challenge. What's even more inspiring? His joy in training fueled him to start swimming again, building strength just to train more. His dog isn't just a companion; it's a catalyst for his self-improvement.

Then there's the client battling depression so severe that getting out of bed was nearly impossible. He stopped working, dropped out of college, but he never missed dog training. He confided that our classes were the only reason he left his house for two weeks. By connecting him with board-certified LCSW Justyn Manley, he received the mental-health support needed, leading to a remarkable turnaround: he was back to work, back to classes, back to his kids' activities, and back to seeing the sun every day.

And the college client, pursuing a demanding science degree, overwhelmed by campus life due to PTSD. She even had to drop classes one semester. With focused task training, the next semester was drastically different. Her PTSD didn't vanish, but she was in class, engaged, and learning, rather than just surviving her symptoms.

Consider the client whose PTSD once made walking his dog around the block a monumental task. A year later, he enthusiastically asked if he could start walking his dog at the mall, "like the old mall ladies," because he wanted to be out and about more, avoiding the cold. His world has literally expanded, not just in ability but in desire and excitement.

We've also seen clients leave abusive situations, finding a healthier, happier life for themselves and their dogs. These profound shifts often happen before the specialized tasks. It's the connection, the progress, the unwavering bond. But make no mistake, the tasks themselves are equally transformative.

These stories aren't just about training dogs; they're about empowering veterans, rebuilding lives, and revealing the extraordinary healing power found in a dog's love.

As we celebrate 15 years of Canines With a Cause, we extend our deepest gratitude to our incredible donors whose support makes all of this possible. Help us continue this vital work by spreading the word about our mission to save rescue dogs and transform the lives of our veterans for another 15 years and beyond!