Save both Veterans and Rescued Dogs today!

A service dog is not a magic bean! Daily media stories about the (admittedly) fabulous things service dogs have done for people mean that expectations from applicants are often unrealistic. Being paired with a service dog does not mean that a person's medical and psychological challenges are going to disappear. The dog is a tool—just like a wheelchair or medication—something that can help mitigate the disability. How effectively and frequently every treatment tool is used determines its impact on the person's disabilities. People with diabetes or seizures who have medical-alert service dogs must continue to see their doctors for medication and monitoring. Dogs who work for clients with psychological injuries alert when their handlers are triggered, helping to change the handler's body chemistry. Bouts of depression can become fewer and less severe. This does not mean handlers can stop seeing mental health experts. OFP's program is intended to supplement—not replace—treatment our clients are receiving from their physicians and/or mental health clinicians.

September 21st was the 14th anniversary of OFP being granted non-profit status…our birthday! My first class as an obedience customer was that same day in 2011. I remember feeling proud to be a tiny part of Mary Cortani's mission, knowing the tuition to train my rescued dog was going directly toward service dogs for veterans. In 2012, I asked if Mary could use me as a volunteer. Then I learned about peanut-alert training for dogs and transitioned from pet owner to service dog handler. That change, challenging as it was, was life-altering. Not only did I gain a new understanding of myself and a medical-alert partner at the end of the leash, but also new opportunities to help others. In the last 14 years I have participated in the training of hundreds of people and dogs. Through all the ups & downs, we’ve stayed true to our mission as a nonprofit: “Operation Freedom Paws empowers veterans and individuals with disabilities to restore their freedom to live life.” Thanks to our donors, volunteers, staff & other supporters, that holds true for me & hundreds of others. 

Links:

• Q2 2025 Operation Freedom Paws Newsletter