Saint Francis Service Dogs provides professionally trained service dogs to assist wounded
soldiers that have been honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces.
Veteran dogs, like service dogs, are taught a wide range of commands in order to assist in the activities of daily living. They retrieve items, carry things, open doors, turn lights on and off, and bring the phone, among many other things. At the same time, their 24-hour companionship provides the safety and peace of mind that comes from knowing that the dog can provide both physical assistance and seek help if needed.
The partnership generates a strong emotional bond between human and dog. Through this bond, the person often develops a positive focus and a stimulus to be active. The result is increased motivation, higher self-esteem, a greater sense of belonging, as well as more social interaction and a higher quality of life.
Last but not least, a service dog can act as a bridge to the world around a veteran, providing a helpful focus for both civilians and the veteran, steering the focus away from the disability.
Service dogs can be an efficient, effective, and holistic healthcare treatment for these men and women. Many veterans have not only wounded bodies but wounded spirits, and service dogs can help to treat both.
Veteran dogs, like service dogs, are taught a wide range of commands in order to assist in the activities of daily living. They retrieve items, carry things, open doors, turn lights on and off, and bring the phone, among many other things. At the same time, their 24-hour companionship provides the safety and peace of mind that comes from knowing that the dog can provide both physical assistance and seek help if needed.
The partnership generates a strong emotional bond between human and dog. Through this bond, the person often develops a positive focus and a stimulus to be active. The result is increased motivation, higher self-esteem, a greater sense of belonging, as well as more social interaction and a higher quality of life.
Last but not least, a service dog can act as a bridge to the world around a veteran, providing a helpful focus for both civilians and the veteran, steering the focus away from the disability.
Service dogs can be an efficient, effective, and holistic healthcare treatment for these men and women. Many veterans have not only wounded bodies but wounded spirits, and service dogs can help to treat both.
Saint Francis thanks Purina for their support
If you are interested in applying for a Saint Francis Veteran Dog, please visit the
How to Apply page for instructions.
For questions or additional information about Saint Francis Service Dogs contact us at
info@saintfrancisdogs.org or call 540.342.DOGS (3647).
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Veteran Dogs