Semper Fi Service Dogs

Training is delivered through ongoing weekly group “pack” sessions led by founder Ryan Onda, combining individualized dog training with Veteran peer support. The program includes a 90-day foster period, followed by lifelong training and community outings. Veterans may apply with a rescue dog or be matched with a trained dog from their program. Training focuses on service tasks for PTSD, TBI, and MST, including emotional regulation, grounding, and recall.

Pricing Summary

All service dog training, rescue fees, vaccinations, and equipment are provided free of charge to qualifying Veterans. No fees are charged for training, placement, or ongoing pack sessions.

Semper Fi Service Dogs is a nonprofit organization founded by Ryan Onda, a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and master trainer, dedicated to rescuing shelter dogs and training them as service dogs for Veterans suffering from PTSD, TBI, or MST—all at no cost to the Veteran. The program includes rescue fees, vaccinations, equipment, and lifelong ongoing group training sessions known as “pack training,” where Veterans and their dogs train together in a supportive community of fellow Veterans. Ryan and his team also offer training for Veterans’ existing dogs if suitable. The organization emphasizes emotional bonding, camaraderie, and long-term support, creating a family-like environment for both dogs and Veterans. Their mission is to reduce veteran suicide rates by providing unwavering companionship and functional service dog support.

The team includes Amanda Onda, who manages operations and development, and Johnathon Musgrave, a U.S. Navy Veteran who serves as Veteran Liaison. All trainers and staff are deeply experienced in trauma-informed, positive reinforcement-based training methods, with Ryan holding certifications in combat trauma and behavioral training. The organization is nationally recognized, having won the Impact 100 PBC $100,000 Grand Prize and been featured on NBC’s Today Show and the Shepard Smith Show.

Semper Fi Service Dogs operates primarily in Southeast Florida but aims to expand nationwide. They do not offer grooming, boarding, or pet sitting services; their focus is exclusively on service dog training and Veteran support.

The program is open to Veterans with PTSD, TBI, or MST who qualify for their free service dog placement. They also accept applications from individuals seeking to volunteer or donate to support their mission.

Accomplishments

Impact 100 PBC $100,000 Grand Prize recipient; Bob Evans Farms “Heroes to CEO’s” winner; featured on NBC’s Today Show and Shepard Smith Show; trained and placed over 59 rescue dogs with 52+ Veterans; founder Ryan Onda holds CCCT and CTC certifications and 20+ years of training experience.

How to Get Started!

Qualifying Veterans must complete the Warrior Application form available on their website. After submission, they will be contacted by Veteran Liaison Johnathon Musgrave to discuss eligibility and next steps. Existing dog owners may also apply to have their dog evaluated for training.