Service Dogs For Patriots

The mission of Service Dogs For Patriots is to instill independence, confidence, and freedom within veterans battling PTSD through training their own service dog. The program involves veterans training their own dogs, with trainers acting as teachers. Veterans can request an application and review qualification requirements to get started.

Policies

Hours are by appointment only to better accommodate veterans’ schedules. Voicemails are not regularly monitored, and email is stated as the best way to reach the team.

Service Dogs For Patriots is a non-profit organization founded in 2017 by Michelle Dunlap. Its core mission is to instill a sense of independence, confidence, and freedom in veterans battling PTSD by guiding them through the process of training their own service dog. Michelle’s personal journey, which involved recovering from a brain injury and training her own service dog, Amber, deeply motivated her to extend this support to veterans facing similar challenges.

The organization facilitates connections between veterans and rescued dogs, then provides training and guidance to the veterans so they can train their dogs to become PTSD service dogs. This unique approach empowers veterans to achieve significant positive outcomes, mirroring Michelle’s own experience with her service dog. The team comprises dedicated professional dog trainers and board members who are committed to supporting veterans.

The business operates by appointment only to best accommodate veterans’ schedules. They emphasize that trainers are teachers, indicating a hands-on, instructional approach where veterans are actively involved in their dog’s training. The organization also provides information on federal and Florida state service dog laws.

Accomplishments

Michelle Dunlap founded Service Dogs for Patriots in 2017, and previously founded Gainesville Canine Academy in 2003, a dog training company, and Phoenix Animal Rescue. Susie Keel is a professional dog trainer, dog handler, dog behavior consultant, and a judge for the AKC Farm Dog Certified Test. Sorcha Allen is a phenomenal dog trainer certified to teach and evaluate all levels of the AKC Canine Good Citizen title and all levels of the AKC Trick Dog title. Anya Douglas served as a Gunnery Sergeant in the Marines and has 21 years of experience in public safety (Fire, EMS, Law Enforcement).

How to Get Started!

To get help, individuals can request an application and review the qualification requirements. The process involves veterans training their own dogs, with trainers serving as teachers.