Trained Service Dogs For Veterans Santa Rosa, CA
We provide custom-trained service dogs for Veterans in Santa Rosa, CA free of charge with lifetime support.
While military service only lasts for a limited time, the psychological and physical wounds experienced by Veterans can last forever. The healing process is a unique journey for every Veteran, and for some, every day is a challenge. It's been estimated that 1/5 has Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) from the 2.7 million Americans who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Conditions like PTSD, MST, and TBI present numerous symptoms that disrupt daily living and make it difficult to sleep, socialize, and maintain independence.
Veterans can rely on service dogs to provide support and help them live a better quality of life. PAVE's mission is to make it easier for more Veterans to enjoy the benefits of service dogs. By offering customized training and lifetime support, we make a tangible and significant difference in the lives of Veterans. We are ready to help you regain your independence. Contact us today for more information
Is A PAVE Service Dog Right For Me?
Veterans with psychological and/or physical disabilities experience an array of complex and chronic symptoms like nightmares, difficulty socializing, depression, and anxiety. Veterans with disabilities can have their PAVE service dogs perform specialized tasks that improve their quality of life. PAVE service dogs are able to help with simple tasks as well as providing support for those facing significant challenges.
- Wake Veterans from nightmares
- Increase your sleep quality and quantity
- Increase your daily independence
- Positive social interactions can be increased
- Lower symptoms of MST, PTSD, anxiety, or depression
- Reduce your need for medication
- Enhance the Veteran's quality of life and positive outlook
- For everyday tasks, physical assistance
- Reduce hypervigilance
The Basic Criteria for a Service Dog
- Became disabled while serving our country (does not have to be combat-related).
- You have received a medical diagnosis of PTSD, MST, TBI, or need physical help.
- You are currently receiving support from a provider.
- Can attend our training camp in the Portland Metro, Oregon, and provide for your own transportation and accommodation during that time.
- You can live in California, Idaho or Oregon.
- Can meet the physical, mental, and emotional needs of a dog.
- Have been honorably discharged.
PAVE does not place service dogs for the legally blind or hearing impaired. For organizations that specialize in these areas, please see ADI.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Service Dogs for Veterans
PAVE's mission, to train and provide service dog for Veterans suffering from physical and/or psychological disabilities is to do so.
PAVE does not place service dogs for the legally blind or hearing impaired. For organizations who specialize in these areas, please visit ADI.
Yes, PAVE can be accredited to Assistance Dogs International. This international leader in assistance dog training and acquisition sets and promotes high standards of excellence. Only three Oregon organizations currently hold accreditation.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, PAVE is funded by private donations, corporate donations, foundation funding, and grants.
PAVE charges around $42,000 per dog, which includes follow-up training and support for the life of the dog.
Approximately 90 cents of every dollar is spent on program expenses.
PAVE provides the service dog, the training and ongoing support free of charge. The initial supply of equipment is valued at $1,500.
Training a service dog takes between 1.5 and 2 years.
PAVE is a partner with Guide Dogs for the Blind, selected breeders, and rescues/shelters.
PAVE trains Labrador Retrievers as well as Golden Retrievers.
These breeds have proven to be successful in service dog work due to their aptitude, temperament, work ethic, and overall performance.
Once the dogs have joined our program, we will start training!
PAVE dogs are trained by certified, professional dog trainers specializing in service dogs. They employ positive reinforcement techniques.
PAVE assistance dogs are trained to accommodate the unique disability needs of Veterans. Some of the tasks they do depend on the Veteran, but could include:
- Turn lights on/off
- Doors can be opened or closed
- Retrieve items
- Nightmare interruption
- Redirect Veterans during a PTSD episode
- Provide DPT (Deep Pressure Therapy) and grounding
PAVE does not train or certify Veterans' dogs. Assistance Dogs International lists some organizations that offer that kind of training.
The initial required qualifications are:
- Honorable discharge.
- A licensed health professional who can offer ongoing support for people with mental and/or physically disabilities.
- Housing and financial stability to provide for the well-being of the service dog.
Have another Question?
Email the PAVE team at [email protected], and we’ll answer all your questions about service dogs for Veterans.
Why choose PAVE?
Paws Assisting Veterans is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Veterans. We provide service dogs for Veterans free of cost and are a non-profit organization. Veterans can live a fulfilling, independent life thanks to the service dogs that are trained in our extensive program.
Apply for a PAVE Service Dog
Are you ready to regain independence?
Our team is available to assist you in every step of the PAVE process, from application to training camp to your new companion or service dog. Dedicated to facilitating your new and better life, we provide tailored training and lifelong support with access to professional advice from our specialist dog trainers. You can access free training for your service dog and ongoing support.
Get started with PAVE. Complete the contact form to get started.
We look forward to speaking with you.
Help Veterans Regain Their Freedom
Service dogs save lives. Help us to help Veterans by supporting PAVE. Your support and generosity go directly towards helping our Veterans and more donations mean more service dogs for Veterans in need.