The Need for Assistance Dogs for Veterans

Veterans in need of guide and assistance dogs have vastly exceeded original projections

According to the Department of Defense, as of July 2010 over 7,000 American service men and women have been injured in Operation Enduring Freedom since the start of operations.
These include such life-altering injuries as: blind; with amputated limbs; spinal cord injuries; traumatic brain injuries; or suffering from post traumatic stress disorder.
Veterans in need of guide and assistance dogs have vastly exceeded original projections
Everyday we learn of more ways these precious dogs can help veterans live again with dignity and self-reliance.
It costs between $30,000 and $50,000 to raise and train a guide, assistance dog or service dog for a disabled veteran.
The federal government does not have a program in place to provide guide, assistance or service dogs to veterans in need.
Vets Helping Heroes is answering the call to serve the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country.
The recently passed government bill will be a great help but does not eliminate the need for private donations.

Types of Dog Programs

Assistance Dogs

The term "Assistance Dog" is an umbrella term that covers the categories described below.

Guide Dogs

A guide dog is an assistance dog trained to find and follow a clear path, maneuver around obstacles, and stop at curbs. A user with a guide dog gains enhanced mobility and independence.

Service Dogs

A service dog is specially trained to help people who have disabilities other than visual impairment. This dog may be trained to provide balance, fetch and retrieve dropped items, or carry a backpack.

Combat Stress Relief Dogs

These specially trained canines are deployed in theater for active duty personnel. They offer emotional support for servicemen and women dealing with combat stress, homefront issues, and sleep disorders.

Military Therapy Dogs

Dogs trained to provide physical therapy assistance at military or VA hospitals for wounded soldiers. They may also make visits to VA nursing homes or hospices.

top