America’s VetDogs

About America’s VetDogs

SERVICE DOGS FOR VETERANS & FIRST RESPONDERS

The service dog programs of America’s VetDogs were created to provide enhanced mobility and renewed independence to veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders with disabilities, allowing them to once again live with pride and self-reliance.  America’s VetDogs specializes placing highly-skilled service and guide dogs to individuals with physical injuries, PTSD, hearing and vision loss, and seizures.

Our mission is to help those who have served our country honorably live with dignity and independence.  All services are provided at no cost — including transportation to and from our campus in Smithtown, New York, instruction, and more.

America’s VetDogs supports veterans, service members, and first responders by creating meaningful partnerships between individuals and specially trained dogs. Through comprehensive instruction and personalized support, participants learn how to work with their dogs as a team and incorporate their partnership into daily life. The organization provides a welcoming environment with expert trainers who focus on each participant’s goals, helping teams build confidence and achieve greater independence.

Who is eligible to apply to America’s VetDogs? 

Men and women who are active military, veterans who have been honorably discharged, and first responders who have a work-related disability, PTSD, or a visual or hearing impairment.

Our PTSD service dog program is limited to veterans with combat-related PTSD and first-responders with work-related PTSD who are currently in ongoing counseling and have been under the consistent care of a Mental Health Professional for a minimum of 1 year, prior to applying. Our Seizure Response Dog program is limited to veterans suffering from a minimum of one seizure a month. Also eligible are Facilities working with Military organizations that provide physical or mental health care to clients who will benefit from interaction with an Assistance Dog.

For guide dog users, we accept residents of the United States who are age 16 and older and classified as legally or totally blind.  We also require that each student have the ability to independently travel using their current mobility device.  Applicants must also be physically able to work with a guide dog and also be able to care for their dog.   If an applicant has successfully completed O & M training within the past several years, we will request an O & M instructor’s report.  Some exceptions to residency are considered on a case-by-case basis.