Service Dogs For Patriots

Service Dogs for Patriots is adjusting its service model in response to a significant decline in fundraising and current economic conditions.

We are no longer able to offer free training to new participants.

We remain committed to supporting people affected by PTSD through trained service dogs. Grant funding will continue to support veterans currently enrolled in our program, and we will honor our commitment to their training. 

 When grant and community funding is available, we will offer subsidized PTSD service-dog training for:

• Veterans
• First responders, including law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS personnel
• Health-care workers
• Teachers

Subsidies reduce the cost of training by $50 per session, bringing the participant cost to $80 per session. Most adult dogs require approximately 45 weekly sessions over one year, for an estimated participant cost of $3,600—considerably less than the average $20,000 cost of purchasing a fully trained service dog.

Subsidies are available only as funding is acquired. Information about requesting subsidized training will be posted on our website and social media once the new process is finalized.

Participants must provide their own dog. We do not provide dogs, train dogs separately for placement, or offer group classes.

Training is weekly, individualized, owner-led, trainer-directed, trauma-informed, and rooted in cooperative practices. We remain neurodivergent- and LGBTQIA-friendly.

 We are seeking volunteers, fundraising support, and community partners to help sustain and grow our work. We are also seeking volunteer leadership, including a Program Director and Executive Director, as we work toward securing funding for paid positions.

Support can include hosting a fundraiser, creating a Facebook fundraiser, encouraging a veteran service organization to contribute, or becoming a business donor. Volunteers are also needed for upcoming community events, including the return of the PupRuck 5K and local fundraising events.

 For those seeking immediate service-dog training, Gainesville Canine Academy offers the same individualized program with the experienced trainers who support Service Dogs for Patriots. Sessions are $130 each. Visit www.GainesvilleCanineAcademy.com for information. 

 Our mission remains the same: helping people affected by PTSD build greater independence, confidence, and support through trained service dogs.