We’re thrilled to invite you to the highlight of our year: our 15th Anniversary Party, happening on May 17, 2025, in Pittsburgh. This unforgettable evening, titled “An Evening of Inspiring Tales and Tails,” promises inspiration, celebration, and connection like never before. (more…)
What a challenging year 2024 has been. So many people in our country were negatively affected by rising costs. For most, there was tremendous attention paid to this year’s election as it gripped our nation, and our communities were further distracted with great trepidation of the unrest unfolding worldwide. Closer to home the readiness of our campus was tested by two hurricanes, while others across the country lost everything. As a result, philanthropy across the entire non-profit sector of our country has been seriously impacted. (more…)
Each year, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs invites our Recipients to enter their dog in our Service Dog Hero of the Year Awards. This award recognizes a Guardian Angels Medical Service Dog who goes above and beyond the call of their training and displays extraordinary efforts to avoid a tragedy. (more…)
Laurie McGruder, who is paired with service dog Kash, has overcome many challenges with her service dog by her side. After a break-in at her home in March 2009, Laurie suffered from severe PTSD. “I was in a constant state of panic and oftentimes refused to leave my bedroom. My health deteriorated, and my chronic pain, migraines, and seizures were out of control,” Laurie said. (more…)
New Partnership Brings Critical Mental Health and Wellness Resources to Veterans and Individuals Facing Trauma Nationwide
November 12, 2024 – Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, a pioneering leader in the service dog industry, has announced an innovative new partnership with mental health experts from One Brother One Sister to provide holistic support for veterans, first responders, and others needing advanced mental health resources. This strategic alliance brings together decades of specialized mental health expertise dedicated to supporting individuals coping with trauma, addiction, and mental health challenges alongside Guardian Angels’ acclaimed service dogs. Together, these organizations are set to profoundly impact mental health care, integrating emotional support with service dog assistance in unprecedented ways.
Since its founding nearly 15 years ago, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs has set a gold standard in the service dog industry. The organization has empowered countless recipients to regain independence, overcome traumatic experiences, and foster lasting personal growth. Guardian Angels’ success rates highlight this: recipients experience a zero suicide rate and an impressively low divorce rate of less than 3%. With the introduction of this partnership, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs takes an innovative step forward, adding a dedicated layer of mental health support to benefit its recipients and their families further.
Bringing Leading Mental Health Support to the Service Dog Industry
The partnership with One Brother One Sister introduces the expertise of three leading mental health professionals: Karyn Hurley, Scott Jones, and Joe Kelley. Collectively, these professionals offer deep expertise in trauma support, addiction recovery, and mental health counseling, backed by rigorous credentials, including accreditation from the Florida Certification Board and education provider status with NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals.
As advocates for trauma recovery and mental wellness, Hurley, Jones, and Kelley are passionate about providing educational resources, ongoing training, and critical assistance to recipients at no cost. “Our work is driven by a vision of a world where trauma and mental health struggles are recognized, understood, and effectively treated,” said Karyn Hurley, Co-Founder of One Brother One Sister. “By partnering with Guardian Angels, we’re bridging a significant gap in holistic care, offering a foundation of mental health support that complements the life-changing work these extraordinary service dogs provide.”
A Perfect Match: Guardian Angels and One Brother One Sister
This collaboration addresses a vital need within the service dog community: long-term mental health resources for those who have often experienced significant trauma. Through this alliance, Guardian Angels recipients now have access to specialized support, including counseling, mental health resources, and resilience-building techniques. This holistic approach aligns perfectly with Guardian Angels’ mission to empower individuals and enrich lives, creating an environment of safety and support for recipients and their families.
One Brother One Sister’s co-founders recognized the immense value Guardian Angels brings to communities nationwide. Joe Kelley, First Responder Wellness Liaison at One Brother One Sister, shared, “Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is already making a profound impact on mental well-being through their expertly trained service dogs. This partnership further supports these remarkable recipients, blending our expertise with theirs to drive industry-wide change.”
Industry-Leading Results and a New Milestone for Service Dog Programs
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs and One Brother One Sister are determined to set a new benchmark in the service dog industry. This partnership aims to validate further the extraordinary capabilities of service dogs, whose dedication transforms lives daily, and to highlight the critical role that ongoing mental health support plays in recovery and resilience.
“We are proud to be at the forefront of integrating specialized mental health resources into our service dog programs,” said Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs spokesperson. “The work of our service dogs is remarkable, and by collaborating with One Brother One Sister, we are elevating the quality of care for our recipients and advocating for greater respect and clarity for this industry.”
About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs
Since its inception, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. has served veterans, first responders, and individuals facing trauma. The organization’s highly trained service dogs are paired with recipients to address various needs, including mobility assistance, seizure alert, and emotional support. Guardian Angels is committed to continually advancing the service dog industry through innovative approaches, training programs, and partnerships that enhance the quality of life for their recipients.
For More Information
For more information on Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs and its collaboration with One Brother One Sister, please visit medicalservicedogs.org or 1brother1sister.com.
As we continue to see the amazing capabilities and potential of service dogs, it is important to look towards the future and determine how we can further improve their training and support. At Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, we strive to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to advancing service dog training and laws to ensure that our recipients receive the life-changing assistance they need to thrive.
2023 Congressional Initiative to Advance the Medical Service Dog Industry
In December 2023, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs was selected to participate with two dozen other medical service dog organizations nationwide in a special initiative mandated by Congress. The main objective of this program will be to determine if the in-depth details outlined in the initiative for training and pairing service dogs meet the needs of permanently disabled service members and veterans.
This initiative, directed by Danny Benbassat, Ph.D., Commander of the U.S. Public Health Service, along with Jeremy Ramirez, DrPH, MPH, a distinguished Veteran and Assistant Professor of Health Informatics at California State University Long Beach, has been set into motion.
This initiative aims to uphold stringent safety protocols for service dogs and the general public while employing data-informed methodologies for the enhanced betterment of one of the most vulnerable communities they serve. Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs brings nearly 15 years of experience and state-of-the-art service dog programs to this initiative.
We have collaborated with other service dog organizations, pooling our wealth of knowledge and best practices. This information is being used to polish and elevate prototype guidelines for future service dog organizations. These guidelines will be the gold standard for training and matching service dogs with service members and veterans.
After a meeting in Washington, D.C., the information the organizations gathered was provided to Congress. They have determined that this initiative is going well and plan to extend it for another year or possibly another four years.
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs was selected to continue with some of the other organizations in this initiative. The main goal of this initiative is to improve all the protocols across the board for the service dog industry, from the dog’s health to their training, and to qualify them for pairing with recipients, as well as the selection and training of the recipient.
We are also focused on what happens once the pairing is done, including all the follow-up elements that are critically important to improving the industry. This initiative includes 113 elements, and while it is a massive undertaking, Guardian Angels is committed to the process to ensure we can contribute to making the industry the best it can be, protecting the communities we serve, and ensuring they receive only the best.
With this initiative, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is on the cutting edge of raising the bar at a federal level for excellence in service dog training and pairing. We hope that a federal designation will eventually serve as the highest designation for a service dog organization, demonstrating that they are practicing all of these critical protocols that the initiative is currently developing.
If this federal designation becomes a reality, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs would be one of the first organizations to receive this type of designation. We are truly honored to participate in this initiative and continue to work towards improving the lives of those in need through the use of highly trained service dogs. We hope that with continued research and collaboration, we can pave the way for even more innovative techniques and strategies in service dog training and support.
6-Stage Proprietary Training Method at Guardian Angels Medical Service
Dogs Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs remains at the forefront of innovation in service dog training. We use our own six-stage Proprietary Training Method, which was developed by Founder and CEO Carol Borden. Additionally, this college-accredited program teaches apprentices how to become service dog trainers since many pet dog trainers, police dog trainers, etc., have never trained service dogs or studied disabilities. This program has also been approved by the VA under the GI Bill.
Our service dog training contains multiple components that are far above and beyond the training for other types of disciplines, such as:
- How to train a dog to alert on a certain high or low for diabetes
- Alert in advance for a seizure
- How to know when to hit an emergency help button if you are incapacitated
- How to wake someone from a night terror
Our service dogs are also exercised and practiced on confidence-building courses as part of their specialized training. These courses teach them how to navigate stairs and deal with a variety of moving objects, helping them adapt to real-life scenarios they may encounter at home or in public.
Our service dog training covers everything a well-trained service dog needs to know. From basic commands, house training, and learning what to play with and what not to to specialized tasks like diabetic alert, retrieving dropped items, etc., as well as public desensitization to help them remain focused on their recipient in public. Our service dog training has remained steady simply because our methods are effective and have an extremely high success rate.
All of our trainers and service dog staff, regardless of department, are required to take on certain elements of the service dog training and care. This ensures that everyone is practicing the same things and the same way with the dogs to prevent confusion during training.
Our training curriculum continues to be effective, allowing us to successfully pair highly trained service dogs with veterans, first responders, and civilians living with disabilities.
Looking to the Future with Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs
As we look ahead to the future of service dogs, it is evident that ongoing innovation and excellence in training and support are critical. Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs stands at the forefront of these advancements, continually pushing the boundaries to ensure that veterans, first responders, and civilians living with disabilities receive the highest-quality assistance.
Through participation in the 2023 Congressional Initiative and the implementation of our six-stage Proprietary Training Method, we are committed to setting the gold standard in service dog training. The potential federal designation represents a significant milestone, offering a beacon of hope and a promise of unparalleled quality and safety in the service dog industry.
Collaboration and research will remain integral to our mission, fostering a community of shared knowledge and best practices that will drive future innovations.
With each success, we light the way for even more groundbreaking techniques and strategies, ensuring those in need can lead fuller, more independent lives. To learn more about how you can help support our mission, visit our Donate page today!
Service dogs play an invaluable role in the lives of many individuals, providing not only companionship but essential assistance in daily activities. From guiding those who are visually impaired to alerting their handlers about medical conditions, these highly trained animals are indispensable partners.
However, the presence of service dogs in public spaces requires a specific set of etiquette guidelines to ensure they can perform their duties without disruption.
Understanding and respecting service dog etiquette is crucial for everyone. Whether you’re a service dog recipient, an employer, or someone who encounters them in public, knowing the do’s and don’ts can help create a more inclusive and supportive environment. This article aims to highlight the importance of proper behavior around service dogs, offering practical tips and insights to foster respect and harmony.
By adhering to these guidelines, we can all contribute to making public spaces more accessible and accommodating for those who rely on service dogs. So, let’s dive in and explore the key aspects of service dog etiquette that everyone should know.
Etiquette Tips for Service Dog Recipients
As a recipient, it is your responsibility to ensure that your dog behaves politely in public and within your place of business. You have total control over your dog’s actions, and it is essential for the dog to behave appropriately, as required by both federal and most state laws.
If your dog causes damage to merchandise, soils the premises, lifts its leg on objects, threatens someone, or acts aggressively, presenting a public safety threat, it is entirely within the rights of the establishment to ask that your dog be removed. If your service dog does become disruptive, it is critical that you take all necessary steps immediately to ensure they cause no further issues.
It’s also important to note that you cannot be denied access to any public
establishments like a restaurant because of your service dog. One public venue that you should be very respectful of is visiting a zoo. There are many areas you should not visit as these exotic animals may see a dog as a predator and injure themselves in a panic.
When taking your service dog somewhere like a restaurant, ensure they are wearing their vest (even though this is not required by law, it does help you avoid unnecessary confrontation) and lying under the table so they do not block foot traffic for other guests and waitstaff. Service dogs should never be allowed onto chairs or in the booth. Keeping them lying down and close to you will help prevent disruptions.
At Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, we use the one-foot rule, which means your service dog should never be more than one foot away from you at all times. This ensures that they are not bothering other patrons, looking for crumbs on the floor, and remain attentive to you. If you have a job, you must introduce your service dog to your place of employment.
The first thing a recipient should do is ask their employer for a reasonable
accommodation. This means that you are informing them that you need to bring your service dog to work with you due to your disability. Your employer does not have to make any special modifications to their business or your position; they are just required to allow you to bring the service dog to work.
If they request you to complete paperwork, you can do so as long as they aren’t asking you any personal questions since your medical information is protected under HIPPA. If you have any questions or issues with the paperwork, check with the EEOC or your state disability services. Additionally, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dog can assist you if you have questions.
When you go to work with your service dog, it is recommended that a meeting is held with your fellow employees and other staff members. This will allow you to introduce your service dog to your coworkers. You don’t have to disclose your disability, but just that the dog is trained to assist you with your disability. It is also a chance for you to lay the ground rules for others at your job so they understand not to talk to your service dog or give them treats or any other distractions that could take away from their ability to be attentive to you.
Etiquette Tips for Business Owners
As a business owner, you may wonder how to handle when a service dog is brought into your establishment. By federal law, those who have a service dog are not required to have a certification or identification for their dog. Service dogs are not required by law to wear a service dog harness, bandana, or any other identifying accessories. We require our service dogs to wear a vest in public to help avoid confrontation or other issues, even though it is not a legal requirement.
Business owners should remember that they can’t ask recipients about the details of the disability or require any proof of certification for their animal. When encountering an individual with a service, it is critical to remember that some disabilities are invisible, so be sure to approach the situation with respect. If an individual enters your business with a service dog, you can legally ask them the following:
- Is this a service dog?
- What tasks does this dog perform for you?
If the service dog is disruptive or posing a risk to your customers or staff due to their behavior, you have the right to deny access. If the dog is causing issues such as stealing food or soiling the premises and the recipient can’t get the dog under control, it is appropriate for you to ask them to leave. You can’t ask them to leave just because someone is allergic to or afraid of dogs.
Some business owners may be uncomfortable with a service dog entering their business, but it is important to allow access to individuals with service animals to ensure compliance with the law while also creating an atmosphere of inclusion and respect for all employees and customers.
If you have any questions about how to handle a service animal in your place of business, it is best to consult with your state EEOC to ensure your rights and the rights of the individual with the service animal are respected. You can also refer to this guide, which answers multiple questions at https://www.ada.gov/resources/service-animals-faqs/
Etiquette Tips for the General Public
As a member of the public, it is essential to remember that service dogs are working animals and should not be distracted from their duties. Additionally, never ask for proof or documentation of someone’s disability or their need for a service dog. This information is private and protected by law. Respect their privacy and focus instead on treating them with kindness and understanding.
Finally, always ask for permission before petting or interacting with a service dog. While they may be cute and friendly, these dogs are on the job and must remain focused on their handler’s needs. Ignoring this rule can cause disruptions and even put the recipient in danger if the dog misses an important signal or cue.
Many recipients are already navigating a world where they do not feel comfortable, so it’s important not to create a confrontational experience for them. If you have questions or comments, be sure to direct them to the recipient respectfully and avoid asking any personal or medical questions.
Have Questions? Contact Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Today!
Understanding and practicing proper service dog etiquette is essential for creating a respectful and supportive environment for the service dog team, employers, business owners, and the general public. By following these do’s and don’ts, we can all play a part in fostering a community that values and supports the vital work of service dogs.
If you have questions about service dogs or our medical service dog organization, we are happy to help! You can contact us today to learn more.
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Announces Anonymous Donor Sponsorship for Annual Mutt Strut and AKC Fit Dog Walk – Free Tickets for One Day Only.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Pittsburgh, PA – October 3, 2024—Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is excited to announce that an anonymous donor has generously pledged to cover the cost of event tickets for one day only for the upcoming Annual Mutt Strut and AKC Fit Dog Walk, taking place on October 4, 2024. Thanks to this amazing gesture, all attendees can join the event at no cost for this limited time if they register by midnight on October 4th, 2024.
The Annual Mutt Strut will be held at the Great Lawn on the North Shore, providing a scenic and welcoming space for pet lovers and their four-legged friends. Additionally, free parking will be available for the first 200 attendees in Gold Lot 2. Event registration begins at 11:00 AM, and the lot opens for attendees at 10:30 AM.
Celebrating over 10 years, the Mutt Strut has grown to become one of Pittsburgh’s most beloved annual events, with strong support from prominent sponsors such as PNC Bank, United Rentals, Lamar, The Pittsburgh Pirates, Higher Images, and Bully Max, among others. Each year, the event brings together Veterans, First Responders, their families, pets, and the community for a day of fun and fundraising in support of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs.
This year’s event will also feature the AKC Fit Dog Walk, a scenic walk along the Riverfront Park and Monongahela River. Participants will stroll from the event’s entrance, following the river to PNC Park and back, creating a beautiful backdrop for dog lovers.
In addition to the walk, attendees will enjoy:
- Service Dog Demonstrations: Witness these highly trained medical service dogs’ incredible abilities and learn how they improve the lives of those with disabilities.
- Pet & Owner Costume Contest: Bring your creativity and compete in the contest for best-dressed pairs! The contest will announce the winners of the YaJagoff Dog and the Top 3 Prizes for best costumes.
- Pet Dog Tricks: Relax and enjoy the show with some of the area’s most talented dog trainers and their four-legged friends as they show off their talents!
- LocalPet Related Vendors and the PNC Grow Up Great Tent will be on-site to provide activities for kids and raise funds and awareness about the life-changing impact of Medical Service Dogs.
- Auction Baskets and 50/50 Raffle: Bid on unique gifts from the local area, including signed Pittsburgh Pirates, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Pittsburgh Steelers Autographed Memorabilia.
Chad Tyson from WDVE will host the event as the Master of Ceremony, and DJ Adam Powerbomb will provide music throughout the day. The Pet Costume Contest will be co-hosted by John Chamberlain and Rachael Rennebeck from YaJagoff (KDKA), alongside Daisy Jade from Pittsburgh Today Live and On Air Kristen from Q92.9.
“We are incredibly thankful for our anonymous donor’s generosity, which will allow us to make this event accessible to even more people for one day,” said Mary Jo Brandt from Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs. “This is a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together and support our mission while enjoying a day of fun activities with their pets.”
Event Details:
- Date: October 5, 2024
- Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Location: The Great Lawn on the North Shore, Pittsburgh, PA
- Parking: Free for the first 200 attendees in Gold Lot 1 – Lot opens at 10:30 AM
Join us for a fun-filled day while supporting a worthy cause! Thanks to the anonymous donation, tickets are free for one day only, so don’t miss this chance to be part of this amazing fundraiser and community event.
About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that rescues, raises and trains highly skilled medical service dogs for veterans, first responders, and civilians in need. Since 2010, they have paired over 400 medical service dogs with deserving recipients, helping them regain independence and improve their quality of life.
For more information about the event, to register for free tickets, or how to support Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, please visit www.themuttstrut.org or contact Brian DeLong at bdelong@medicalservicedog.org
Media Contact:
Linda Jo Thornberg
Public Relations
412-203-1996
lindajo@medicalservicedogs.org
- Furthering Defender brand’s commitment to aiding and honoring organizations who serve their communities, Defender is proud to announce the 25 finalists across 5 categories for the 2024 Defender Service Awards presented by CHASE
- CHASE, the presenting sponsor, is donating $5,000 to each of the 25 category finalists to expand their mission
- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs of Williston, Florida, has been selected as a finalist in the category Veteran & Civil Servant Outreach – Presented by Hearts & Science.
- The public can cast their votes for their favorite charitable organizations from October 2nd, 2024, through October 17th, 2024, generating the ultimate category winners
- Based on the public vote, each category winner will be awarded a new Defender 130 vehicle that will be customized to align with their mission of service
- Category sponsors, including Hearts and Science, PELICAN, OUTSIDE Interactive inc., ei3 and Disney will award $25,000 to each category winner
- The winners of the 2024 Defender Service Awards presented by CHASE will be announced at Destination Defender on November 23, 2024, at Calamigos Ranch in Malibu, California.
- For information and rules1,2 on the Defender Service Awards presented by CHASE visit www.landroverusa.com / www.landrover.ca
Mahwah, NJ – October 2, 2024: Today, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs was announced as a finalist in the Veteran & Civil Servant Outreach category presented by Hearts & Science.
in the fourth annual ‘Defender Services Awards’ presented by CHASE. The awards showcase the British adventure brand’s longstanding commitment to aiding and honoring organizations who serve their communities. Each of the 25 U.S. non-profit and Canadian registered charities across five categories reflect the Defender brand’s enduring commitment to bringing positive impact to communities through acts of service and humanitarian efforts around the world.
Public voting, which will take place from October 2nd, 2024, through October 17th, 2024, will ultimately decide the winning organizations for each category. The winning organizations will each receive a new Defender 130 vehicle that will be fully customized to best address their needs, and awarded $25,000 by their category sponsor, empowering them to further their missions.
Built for purpose. The Defender 130 is equipped with three rows of seating for up to eight volunteers and ample space with 88.9 cubic feet (2,516 liters) of load capacity to enhance each charities’ efforts. The winning organization will be able to customize their vehicle with robust Defender accessories that will meet the challenges of their mission, along with a custom exterior vehicle wrap.
Corporate partners have joined this initiative to provide further support for the respective organizations across the different categories. CHASE, as presenting sponsor, will donate $5,000 to each of the five finalists per category, for a total of $150,000 across 30 finalists. A new premier partner, S&P Global has joined as a sponsor of the awards program. Category sponsors include OUTSIDE Interactive Inc., ei3, PELICAN, Hearts & Sciences and Disney. Each category sponsor will also donate $25,000 to its respective category winner.
Sam Allen, Defender U.S. Brand Director, said: “Each year we are incredibly inspired by the video submissions for the Defender Service Awards from organizations throughout North America and their tireless acts of service for their communities. This initiative is a reflection on the Defender brand’s commitment to supporting and furthering humanitarian efforts across the globe.”
A sixth category, Defender Service Honorees, is designed for past 2021-2023 finalists who have been given a second chance to win a custom Defender 130 vehicle. These worthy organizations did not win their category, however their continued support of their communities and need for a capable vehicle warrants a second chance.
Public voting will take place from October 2nd, 2024, through October 17th, 2024, to determine the ultimate winners of the six categories of the 2024 Defender Service Awards. To view the finalist videos and vote, please visit Defender Service Awards at https://www.landroverusa.com/experiences/events-and-sponsorships/defender-service-awards/index.html
The winning organization from each of the six categories will be announced at this year’s Destination Defender event. Encouraging participants to embrace the impossible, the weekend celebration will take place from November 22-24, 2024, at Calamigos Ranch in Malibu, California, and will feature Defender experiences that channel the adventurous spirit of the brand. A special evening celebration on November 23rd will be held to announce the six winning organizations.
The Defender family of models, 90, 110, 130, continues to expand and evolve to suit the many uses by their owners. Defender OCTA, the new high‑performance hero will be available in North America for the 2025 model year. Featuring a V8 Twin Turbo, producing 636hp, 6D Dynamics Air Suspension, and active exhaust system, Defender OCTA will offer an unparalleled breadth of capability, comfort and composure, whether on‑road or off‑road. New for 2025 model year, optional second‑row Captain Chairs are available in the Defender 130 to provide comfort and luxury with aisle access to the spacious third row.
To learn more about the 2024 Defender Service Awards, please visit https://www.landroverusa.com/experiences/events‑and‑sponsorships/defender‑service‑awards/index.html
- ABBREVIATED RULES. NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Begins on June 17, 2024, to Oct 17, 2024. TO ENTER MUST BE 18 YEARS OR OLDER IN THE 50 UNITED STATES AND D.C., PUERTO RICO, OR CANADA, AN ELIGIBLE CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION, AND HAVE AT LEAST ONE DIRECTOR THAT IS 18 YEARS OR OLDER RESIDING IN THE 50 UNITED STATES AND D.C., PUERTO RICO, OR CANADA. Contest is void where prohibited by law. Contest subject to the complete Official Rules. Visit www.landroverusa.com/experiences/events‑and‑sponsorships/defender‑service‑awards/index.html or www.landrover.ca/en/experiences/sponsorship/defender‑service‑awards/index.html for Official Rules and prize descriptions. Sponsor: Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC, 100 Jaguar Land Rover Way, Mahwah, NJ 07495.
- Information and rules on the ‘Defender Service Awards’ presented by Chase can be found here, and Canadian rules can be found here.
ENDS
About the Defender Brand
Defender embraces the impossible. Each member of the Defender family is purposefully designed, highly desirable and seriously durable. A modern-day hero that respects the past but at the same time anticipates the future.
Available in 90, 110 and 130 body styles, with up to eight seats, each has a charisma of its own.
A beacon of liberty since 1948, Defender supports humanitarian and conservation work with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the Tusk Trust.
The Defender brand is underpinned by Land Rover – a mark of trust built on 75 years of expertise in technology and off-road capability.
Defender vehicles are designed and engineered in the UK and sold in 121 countries. It belongs to the JLR house of brands alongside Range Rover, Discovery and Jaguar.
Important notice
JLR is constantly seeking ways to improve the specification, design and production of its vehicles, parts and accessories and alterations take place continually. Whilst every effort is made to produce up-to-date literature, this document should not be regarded as an infallible guide to current specifications or availability, nor does it constitute an offer for the sale of any particular vehicle, part or accessory.
Further Information
Joe Stauble
PR Manager JLR North America
T: 201.818.8127
Jstauble@jaguarlandrover.com
Jeff Ehoodin
Land Rover PR Senior Specialist
T: 201.906.7818
Jehoodin@jaguarlandrover.com
Media website: https://media.landrover.com/
Social Channels:
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@defender
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Defender
Twitter/X: https://x.com/Defender
Instagram:http://instagram.com/defender
YouTube:http://www.youtube.com/LandRover
About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a nonprofit organization dedicated to training and donating highly skilled medical service dogs for individuals living with disabilities, with a focus on U.S. military veterans and first responders. With an emphasis on enhancing the lives and independence of their recipients, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs has successfully paired hundreds of dogs with deserving individuals, making a positive impact on families and communities across the nation.
Mary Jo Brandt
COO
T: 800.398.6102
mj@medicalservicedogs.org
For many veterans, transitioning back to civilian life after serving in the military is fraught with physical and emotional challenges. Among these, mobility issues caused by injuries received during their service stand out as a significant barrier to achieving everyday independence and quality of life.
Service dogs are specially trained to assist individuals with disabilities, including those related to mobility. For veterans, service dogs offer physical assistance while also having the ability to alert in advance to PTSD episodes such as anxiety/panic attacks, nightmares, seizures, and/or diabetic alert etc.
This article explores how service dogs are revolutionizing mobility for veterans, shedding light on their training, specific tasks, and profound impact on the lives of those who have served. As we explore this topic, we’ll uncover the incredible ways service dogs are helping veterans regain their independence and navigate the complexities of daily life with confidence and ease.
The Many Ways Service Dogs Can Assist with Mobility
At Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, we can train and pair dogs for veterans who have lost a limb or have suffered other injuries that have left them permanently disabled. These dogs are trained in various tasks, including retrieving dropped items, opening and closing doors, turning light switches on and off, providing physical support for balance or stability, and more.
Moreover, service dogs can also help with tasks that may seem small but significantly impact a veteran’s daily life. For example, they can assist with fetching items from the refrigerator or pantry, hitting buttons to open doors or elevators, etc. These seemingly simple tasks can be challenging for those with mobility issues and can often lead to frustration, loss of independence, and depression.
There are different levels of mobility among those who require assistance, so each dog is specifically trained to meet the needs of its recipient. Some veterans may have vertigo due to a brain injury or a leg that gives out, so a service dog can be trained to provide them with balance. The service dog can also be trained to brace for veterans who need help getting out of a chair or bed.
For assistance with mobility, our service dogs are trained to wear balance harnesses, which look similar to a guide dog harness and feature a bar the recipient can hold onto. During our application process, we get an in-depth look at the veteran’s disability and challenges, training their service dog to their specific needs.
How Service Dogs Are Trained to Brace
When teaching them how to brace, we first teach them to stand by giving them a command. At the same time, we scratch their belly and put a small amount of pressure on their shoulders. When using a service dog to brace, you never want to place pressure anywhere else on their back. Bracing on a service dog using any other part of their body can result in injury, so it must always be done directly over their shoulders.
While training, we gradually add pressure, but a dog should never hold a person’s entire weight. Bracing is a task offering some assistance to aid in balance but is not intended to provide total support.
Our service dogs often learn this command quickly. Once they understand it, we practice various positions, like getting off the ground, sitting down from a standing position, or getting up from a chair. We work with them on the maneuvers with this command to ensure they are trained in various situations where bracing may be needed.
What Other Ways Do Service Dogs Assist Veterans?
In many cases, a veteran’s mobility issues can also be combined with PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, or seizures. Using scent samples, these dogs learn to detect changes in blood chemistry, allowing them to alert their handlers to the onset of PTSD-induced nightmares, hypervigilance, anger, or anxiety attacks. This same methodology is applied to teach service dogs to recognize changes in blood sugar levels or impending seizures, giving recipients advance notice to take necessary precautions.
Additionally, service dogs are trained to respond to chemical imbalances that trigger anxiety or panic attacks by nuzzling, licking, standing over, or pawing at their handlers. These actions remind the individual to take medication or use relaxation techniques. For those with PTSD, service dogs provide an added layer of assistance in public or unfamiliar settings through a task known as “shielding.”
Positioning themselves between their handler and an approaching stranger helps prevent potential triggers, thereby reducing anxiety and enhancing the handler’s confidence in navigating daily life. These amazing animals provide their recipients with nonjudgmental and unconditional love. In addition, they offer veterans who feel isolated and lonely a way to improve their mental well-being by simply being by their side 24/7, unlike other forms of treatments or therapy that are temporary.
More than twenty-two veterans die by suicide each day, with over 39 daily attempts in 2023, and numbers are rising at alarming rates. Service Dogs play a significant role in preventing suicide. In the last 14 years, we’ve had many people come to us who had suicide attempts and ideations, but with the assistance of our service dogs, we have not had a suicide among our recipients.
Service dogs also may help veterans dramatically reduce the number of medications they take. Many veterans take multiple medications to manage their nightmares, anxiety, etc. With the assistance of a service dog and under their doctor’s care, they can often reduce or get off their medications.
A service dog’s presence can also improve a veteran’s overall life. In the US, we have a divorce rate of about 47%; for those with a disabled family member, this rises by an additional 90%.
With the help of service dogs, veterans can significantly improve their quality of life and relationships. Our service dogs help create a more positive home environment and prevent secondary factors in veteran families, such as intergenerational PTSD.
How You Can Make an Impact on Veterans’ Lives
In conclusion, the transformative role of service dogs in the lives of veterans cannot be overstated. These remarkable, highly skilled canines enhance mobility and independence, foster emotional healing, and build confidence.
As veterans navigate the complexities of life after service, the unwavering support of a service dog can make all the difference, providing a sense of purpose and stability amidst challenges. By addressing both physical and mental health needs, service dogs play an essential role in restoring hope and enriching the lives of those who have bravely served.
As we continue to advocate for these incredible partnerships, we can cultivate a community of compassion and gratitude, ensuring every veteran receives the support they deserve. Together, we can foster a brighter future marked by resilience, healing, and the joyful companionship and assistance that service dogs so selflessly provide.
At Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, we provide veterans, first responders, and some civilians with service dogs who can help mitigate the challenges of PTSD and several other permanent disabilities, allowing them to re-enter society and reconnect with their loved ones. To learn more about our mission and how you can help provide service dogs for veterans, visit our website today!
Imagine a world where dogs can be trained to perform life-changing tasks that transform the lives of those living with disabilities. For many individuals with disabilities, this world is a reality, thanks to the incredible work of medical service dogs. These specially trained dogs provide critical assistance that enhances their recipients’ independence and quality of life.
However, training and providing these remarkable animals to recipients is complex and costly—an endeavor made even more challenging by the rising tide of inflation. In this post, we will explore the importance of donations in sustaining this vital mission, how inflation impacts the cost of service dog programs, and how you can make a difference.
The Power of Medical Service Dogs
Medical service dogs are more than pets; they are lifelines for individuals with permanent disabilities. From assisting with mobility issues to providing assistance to those with PTSD, these dogs help recipients lead fuller, more independent lives. The bond between a service dog and its recipient is unbreakable, built on trust, training, and a dedication to providing a new leash on life to veterans and first responders living with permanent disabilities.
Rising Training and Care Costs Due to Inflation
Historically, the expense of creating an entirely competent medical service dog was significant, with an average cost of about $37,000 for each canine. This cost incorporated inclusive training programs, healthcare, nutrition, and maintenance, all overseen by highly skilled professionals. However, the financial environment has witnessed drastic changes recently, causing a surge in these expenses due to inflation.
In the year 2023, inflationary pressure affecting all industries resulted in a steep increase in the price of dog food. The cost initially rose by 15%, but it later jumped to an astonishing 30% increase. This inflation didn’t spare utility bills, fuel prices, and other essentials either, leading to a rise in the cost of maintaining our facilities and enabling staff to assist beneficiaries.
Such increases represent a substantial financial challenge, underscoring the relentless rise in the overall cost of producing service dogs.
The extensive training regimen for a medical service dog goes far beyond basic obedience. These dogs are equipped with specialized skills tailored to assist with various disabilities. The rigorous training process, spanning months, ensures each dog can reliably perform tasks that enhance their human partner’s independence and well-being.
Beyond training, significant investments are made in each dog’s health and nutrition. Regular veterinary care, quality nutrition, and preventive measures constitute a considerable portion of the overall costs, all of which have been affected by inflation.
The Role of Donations in Our Mission
Donations are crucial in bridging the gap between rising costs and the ongoing need for medical service dogs. Financial support from the community enables organizations to maintain the quality of training and care these dogs receive. It also allows for the expansion of programs to reach more individuals in need.
When someone sponsors a dog, they receive “Pup Dates” every quarter, which include a picture of their growing puppy and a paragraph or two about what the dog is currently learning. Sponsors can follow the dog up to the point of pairing and then receive a thank-you video from the recipient. This transparency ensures that sponsors know exactly how their money is being utilized.
Our Training and Pairing Process
In addition to extensive training and care, the Recipient Relations Department works with recipients from the first inquiry through the pairing process and throughout the life of the team. Office personnel and the Finance Department help keep bookkeeping, documentation, and more in order. The Development team is another critical component, helping to bring in the funding required to care for, train, and pair our service dogs with recipients.
Once the pairing process begins, we cover the full costs of bringing the recipient to our campus, where they will be trained and paired with their service dog. We pay for these expenses to ensure there are no financial roadblocks for our recipients.
How Your Donation Makes a Difference
Your contribution, no matter its size, makes a meaningful difference. It ensures that the next service dog can complete their training and become a lifeline for someone struggling to regain their independence and confidence. Together, we can help cover the unseen costs behind each service dog’s journey and continue transforming lives, one incredible dog at a time.
With our community of supporters, we are able to make recovery and independence a reality for many veterans and others in need. When you support Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, you give those in need a life-saving companion who can give them their life back.
If you are inspired by the incredible work of medical service dogs and want to make a difference, consider making a donation today. Your support will help us continue our mission and ensure that more individuals can benefit from the companionship and assistance of a medical service dog.
Sponsor a Service Dog Today!
The rising costs of producing medical service dogs pose a significant challenge, yet the need for these incredible animals continues to grow. Financial support from the community has never been more critical. It enables organizations to maintain the quality of training and care these dogs receive and expand their programs to reach more needy individuals.
By donating to Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, you are not just contributing to the cost of training and caring for these animals. You are helping to create unbreakable bonds between service dogs and their human partners, transforming lives and fostering independence.
Join us in making a difference. With your support, we can continue to provide life-changing service dogs to those in need, ensuring everyone can lead a fuller, more independent life. Thank you for your generosity and commitment to our mission.
Medical service dogs play an essential role in emergency situations. They are trained to assist individuals with various permanent disabilities, including but not limited to physical disabilities, seizures, and PTSD.
In times of crisis or emergency, these dogs can provide crucial support and assistance to their handlers. Their quick response time, calm demeanor, and specialized training make them valuable assets in emergencies.
Training Service Dogs to Assist Recipients with Permanent Disabilities
Training service dogs and pairing them with recipients is an in-depth process that involves getting to know the recipient and creating a relationship with them to ensure we fully understand their needs. This allows us to train the service dog to assist them and make their life more complete.
Our service dogs are trained through an expertly crafted proprietary program. They are evaluated at each stage, and the training lasts about 15 months to ensure we know the dog and what it is best at. They are observed closely, and we work with their strengths, never forcing them to do tasks that don’t work for them. Our service dogs are also sensitized to noises and other distractions they may encounter in daily life and in public to ensure they are always in tune with the recipient’s needs regardless of the environment.
In many cases, depending on the recipient’s disability, we acquire scent samples from the individual collected during a medical episode. We use these samples to teach the dog to recognize the recipient’s specific scent, which allows them to alert their recipient to an impending medical episode.
Additionally, our service dogs can be trained to assist recipients with mobility by helping them open doors, retrieve dropped items, and provide a way to balance when standing, transferring from their wheelchair to bed, or providing balance while standing or walking.
They can also be trained to shut off lights, bring them medication, pick up dropped items, open and close doors, and more. Service dogs can even be trained to push a medical alert button to notify authorities of a medical emergency. We also teach the dogs to remain calm in loud or chaotic situations, allowing them to provide critical assistance during emergencies.
In cases of PTSD, a medical service dog can provide the recipient with shielding and grounding from flashbacks or anxiety/panic attacks and can wake them from
nightmares. Overall, we train our service dogs to match the needs of the recipients they will be paired with. This ensures that the recipient’s needs are met to face daily life and the public easily.
How Service Dogs Assist Recipients During Medical Emergencies
During an emergency, the presence of a medical service dog can bring a sense of assurance for the recipient’s well being. They are trained to stay by their recipient’s side and perform whatever supporter or tasks when they need it most.
Our dogs are trained to assist recipients with a range of permanent disabilities. For example, if a recipient is going to have a seizure, a service dog can detect the seizure due to the chemical changes in the recipient’s body. This allows the dog to alert the recipient 10 to 15 minutes prior to the seizure so they can lie down in a safe place with the dog lying on them or underneath their head to prevent them from injuring themselves.
Service dogs can also be trained to bring the recipient their medication during a medical episode, which is especially helpful for those who live alone. This scent training is crucial and also assists recipients with PTSD. If a recipient is about to experience a PTSD event, the service dog is trained to smell when the oxytocin and cortisol are out of normal range. This allows the dog to alert their recipient and redirect them so they can calm down before they have a severe event. PTSD causes a range of emotions, but a service dog can help calm the recipient before the episode escalates.
One amazing example of the impact of our service dogs is the story of a first responder we paired a service dog with who was injured during the Oklahoma bombing that occurred in the 1980s. This recipient was left with a traumatic brain injury that caused tremendous seizures. These seizures were so severe she was unable to lead a normal life, even in her own home. Oftentimes, someone who has seizures will have auras prior to the seizure, which helps the person to be aware of what is going on. However, this recipient’s seizures were so severe she didn’t have the chance to have an aura and prepare for the seizure. In many cases, the seizure is only part of the issue; the catastrophic events or injuries that can occur due to the seizure are also a major
concern.
With the lack of auras, she was bending down to empty her dishwasher one day and suffered a seizure with no time to prepare herself, causing her to fall down onto the dishwasher rack face first, suffering severe injuries. In another incident, she was with a family member at a big box store. The family member only turned their back for an instant, and the recipient suffered a seizure and fell down, hitting a metal shelf and then the concrete floor. She broke her jaw severely, requiring a cadaver bone to replace her broken jaw bone. This was a pivotal moment for her, encouraging her to reach out to Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs for help.
We trained a dog for her, helping her completely transform her life. With the help of her service dog, she can now function alone in her own home because the dog always alerts her in advance of her seizures so she can safely prepare. The service dog also helped her gain the confidence to take public transportation, go out to lunch with friends, and do other activities she wouldn’t have been able to do before.
While in public, the service dog was able to alert her to a seizure and push her down on the bench she was sitting on to ensure she was safe while having a seizure. The bond between a medical service dog and their recipient is powerful, and it truly shines during times of crisis. These remarkable animals are not just pets; they are trained professionals who dedicate their lives to helping individuals with disabilities.
Support Our Mission
At Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, we are grateful for the life-changing impact that our service dogs have on their recipients. We rely on donations to continue training and pairing these amazing animals with individuals. Your support can help us provide more service dogs to assist veterans, first responders, and civilians with permanent disabilities. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of others and give them a sense of hope and security in times of crisis. Thank you for considering supporting our mission and helping us change lives, one service dog at a time. Questions? Contact us today to learn more!
In the heart of every service dog, beats a story of unwavering loyalty, unparalleled dedication, and a profound connection to those they serve. These remarkable animals provide life-changing support to veterans and first responders, guiding them through their darkest hours toward hope and healing. However, the path to becoming a Guardian Angel in canine form is both demanding and costly, a reality often unseen by the wider public.
Our society owes an immense debt of gratitude to these four-legged heroes and the organizations dedicated to training them. Yet, as we peel back the layers of their journey, we uncover the significant financial investments required to prepare each dog for their noble role. This blog post aims to shed light on the extensive training and healthcare each medical service dog undergoes and underscore financial support’s crucial role in covering these escalating expenses.
The Costs Behind the Compassion
Traditionally, producing a fully trained medical service dog was a costly endeavor, with expenses averaging around $37,000 per dog. This figure covered comprehensive training programs designed to meet the specific needs of their future human partners, along with healthcare provided by our highly trained staff, food, and upkeep during their training period, which our dog care specialists provide. However, the economic landscape has shifted dramatically, with inflation pushing these costs even higher.
In 2023 alone, we’ve witnessed the price of dog food soar, reflecting the broader inflationary pressures affecting all sectors of the economy. Initially, we faced a 15% increase in the cost of dog food. Shortly thereafter, this figure leaped to a staggering 30% hike. Inflation has also caused a rise in utilities, gasoline, and other necessities, increasing the cost of running our facilities, sending staff to work with recipients, and more.
Such increases represent a substantial financial challenge, underscoring the relentless rise in the overall cost of producing service dogs.
In addition to the extensive training and care the service dogs receive, there is a Recipient Relations Department that includes teams of people who work with our recipients from the first inquiry through the pairing process and throughout the life of the team.
Office personnel and the Finance Department are another part of our service dog costs, helping to keep bookkeeping, documentation, and more in order. The Development team is another critical component, helping to bring in the funding we require to care for, train, and pair our service dogs with recipients since each dog is donated at no cost to our recipients.
Once the pairing process begins, we also pay in full the costs of bringing the recipient to our campus, where they will be trained and paired with their service dog. We pay for these expenses to ensure there are no financial roadblocks for our recipients.
The Price of Preparation
The extensive training regimen for a medical service dog goes far beyond basic obedience. These dogs are equipped with specialized skills tailored to assist with a variety of disabilities, including mobility issues, PTSD, and more. The training process is rigorous, spanning months to ensure each dog can reliably perform tasks that enhance their human partner’s independence and well-being.
Beyond training, significant investments are made in each dog’s health and nutrition, ensuring they are physically and mentally prepared for the demands of their future roles. Regular veterinary care, quality nutrition, and preventive measures constitute a considerable portion of the overall costs, all of which have been affected by inflation.
How Your Donation Makes a Difference
The rising costs of producing service dogs pose a significant challenge, yet the need for these incredible animals continues to grow. Financial support from the community has never been more critical. It enables organizations to not only maintain the quality of training and care these dogs receive but also to expand their programs to reach more individuals in need.
Your contribution, no matter its size, makes a meaningful difference. It ensures that the next service dog can complete their training and become a lifeline for someone struggling to regain their independence and confidence. Together, we can help cover the unseen costs behind each service dog’s journey and continue to transform lives, one incredible dog at a time.
Hope on the Horizon
Despite the challenges posed by rising costs, the stories of transformation and renewed hope continue to inspire. Each service dog that graduates from training and becomes a steadfast part of the team with their recipient reaffirms the value of our collective investment. These stories are not just about the financial resources required but about the lives forever changed by the dedication, love, and support of a medical service dog.
In a world that often feels divided, the mission to train and provide service dogs stands as a beacon of compassion and unity. It reminds us of the powerful bond between humans and animals and the extraordinary ways in which that bond can heal and uplift spirits.
Your support, your advocacy, and your generosity are more critical now than ever. Together, we can ensure that the financial hurdles do not impede the noble work of preparing service dogs for their vital roles. We invite you to join us in this mission, extend your hand in support, and be part of the remarkable stories of hope and resilience that unfold beyond the leash.
In closing, we extend our heartfelt thanks to every individual who has contributed to this cause. Your support not only helps cover the tangible costs but also fuels the spirit of hope, determination, and love that defines the heart of every service dog. Together, we are making a difference—one dog, one human, one story at a time. To learn about how to donate, visit our General Donations page today!
In the heart of every service dog, there beats a story of loyalty, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to their recipient. These remarkable animals traverse the path of life alongside their recipients, not just as service dogs but as vital lifelines, offering independence, comfort, and an unparalleled sense of security.
At Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, we witness daily the profound impact these heroes on four legs have on the lives of veterans, first responders, and individuals grappling with unique challenges. Yet, the effectiveness and well-being of these diligent canines hinge on the pillars of comprehensive care: veterinary care, nutrition, and ongoing training.
The Heartbeat of Health: Veterinary Care for Service Dogs
As with humans, regular health check-ups are fundamental to a service dog’s well-being. These appointments serve as prevention measures and early detection of any potential health concerns that may arise. At Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, our veterinary team works tirelessly to ensure the physical health of our service dogs, providing vaccinations, routine care, and emergency medical treatment when necessary.
Our veterinarian team and animal hospital located on our campus work to ensure the dogs are healthy 100% of the time. The veterinarian staff is also available to handle any sickness or other issues that may arise with our paired teams across the country.
The Fuel for Service: Nutrition & Exercise
Nutrition is not just about sustenance; it’s about vitality. For a service dog, the right food and diet are crucial to maintaining a healthy weight and optimizing their energy levels. We meticulously recommend diets that keep our service dogs in peak condition, enabling them to perform their duties effectively. When a service dog enjoys his carefully selected meals, he isn’t just being fed; he’s being equipped to face his day with vigor and vitality.
Service dogs who become overweight can experience various issues, such as joint problems and decreased mobility, which can significantly impact their ability to assist their recipients. That’s why we prioritize nutrition as a fundamental aspect of our service dog care.
Additionally, regular exercise is essential for service dogs to maintain their health and well-being. Our organization trains recipients to ensure that all our service dogs receive appropriate exercise and playtime, promoting physical and mental stimulation once the dog is paired.
The Path of Progress: Ongoing Training
Service dogs, much like humans, thrive on growth and learning. Our commitment to our services and recipients doesn’t end when they become a team; it evolves. When we first begin training the dog, our experienced trainers meticulously teach the dogs various skills, from fundamental obedience to executing specialized tasks.
These tasks are intricately designed to assist individuals dealing with disabilities. By harnessing the intelligence and empathy of our four-legged friends, these tasks can range from providing balance support, and retrieving dropped items to performing crucial life-saving alerts during medical emergencies or unsettling night terrors.
Apart from task-oriented training, the overall well-being of the dogs remains our utmost priority. Hence, our trainers also emphasize the importance of acclimating dogs to social settings and public experiences. Through a combination of socialization exercises and desensitization practices, we continuously prepare our dogs to remain calm and collected in various environments, ensuring their readiness to serve as reliable service dogs.
While our training is extensive, the service dogs need continued training once they are home with their recipient. Through quarterly phone calls, we stay connected, offering guidance, answering questions, and ensuring the service dog’s ongoing training meets the dynamic needs of the recipient.
And when challenges arise that can’t be addressed over the phone, our trainers are ready to travel, offering personalized, hands-on assistance. This ongoing support ensures that each service dog and its recipient can overcome obstacles together, strengthening their bond and enhancing the dog’s effectiveness.
The Power of Your Support: The Paw Prints Club
Our Paw Prints Club is more than a community; it’s a force of change. This unique community unites individuals from all corners, each carrying a shared passion for our mission and a mutual desire to leave an indelible impact on the lives of those we serve. Membership at Paw Prints Club comes with more than just a badge; it’s an opportunity to see your contributions transform lives through the inspirational stories of our recipients delivered straight to your inbox every quarter.
Not only will you witness our puppies’ journey as they train to fulfill their purpose, but you will also be privy to early updates about our much-anticipated events. What’s more? Paw Prints Club membership comes with an exclusive perk of discounted prices on our online store. So, prepare to be a part of our noble mission and enjoy the journey we embark upon together.
Small monthly donations from people like you directly contribute to the wellness and effectiveness of our service dogs. Each contribution ensures access to top-notch veterinary care, premium nutrition, and continuous training support, empowering these incredible teams to thrive. To help put the impact of your donation into perspective, here is an example of what different donation tiers can achieve:
- $100/month: covers the price of one month’s worth of dog food (Bully Max) for one dog
- $50/month: covers the price of a Guardian Angels vest
- $20/month: covers the price of a dog leash, collar, or toy for one dog
With over 400 teams paired, our mission is far from complete. Each day brings new opportunities to enrich the lives of those in need through the support of service dogs. Your generosity enables us to extend our reach, touching more lives and creating more stories of hope and independence.
We invite you to join us on this remarkable journey. Together, we can ensure that every service dog continues to offer the unwavering support their recipients rely on. By contributing to the Paw Prints Club, you’re not just supporting a cause; you’re nurturing a life-changing partnership that reverberates through the lives of service dogs and their recipients.
In every wag of a tail, every gentle nudge, and every moment of unwavering loyalty, there lies a story of hope and resilience. These stories are made possible by your compassionate support. Together, we are strengthening the pack, one service dog at a time. To learn more about how you can make a difference, visit our Paw Prints Club
As part of our commitment to helping veterans and their families, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs would like to remind our supporters and recipients of the CTU Patriot Scholarship. (more…)
