VETDOGS
America's VetDogs
"To help those who have served our country honorably live with dignity and independence."
About America’s VetDogs
The America’s VetDogs is a nonprofit organization founded in 2003 to enhance the independence and quality of life of veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders with disabilities through the placement of trained assistance dogs. A program of the Guide Dog Foundation, America’s VetDogs provides specialized service dogs and support at no cost to recipients.
Who the Organization Serves
America’s VetDogs serves U.S. military veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders living with physical disabilities, mobility limitations, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), or other service-related conditions.
What the Organization Does
- Breeds, raises, and trains service dogs tailored to individual needs
- Places guide dogs, service dogs, and PTSD service dogs with eligible recipients
- Provides comprehensive training for recipients and ongoing follow-up support
- Operates volunteer puppy-raising and community engagement programs
- Advances public awareness of assistance dog accessibility and independence
Where the Organization Operates
America’s VetDogs operates nationally, serving eligible recipients across the United States. Training and placement are coordinated through centralized facilities and delivered through in-person programs and regional support, ensuring access regardless of location.
Eligibility for Services
America’s VetDogs is not a membership-based organization. Eligibility applies to participation in service-dog placement programs.
- Eligible applicants generally include honorably discharged veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders.
- Applicants must have a qualifying disability or condition consistent with program criteria.
- Medical documentation and functional assessments may be required as part of the application process.
- Service dogs and training are provided at no cost to approved recipients.
How Services Are Structured
Services are structured through an application and evaluation process, followed by dog matching, team training, and ongoing support. Recipients participate in structured training to build a successful working partnership with their service dog and receive continued assistance throughout the life of the dog.