Canines For Heroes Selects Seven Veterans to Receive Service Dogs, Expands Donor-Driven Program
SARASOTA, Fla. – Canines for Heroes, a Sarasota-based nonprofit, in collaboration with Top Tier K9 Bradenton, recently announced the completion of its selection process to donate seven service dogs and the expansion of its service dog program to meet the growing demand from veterans and first responders suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The announcement comes on the eve of National Service Dog Awareness Day.
The organization aims to provide service dogs to at least eight more veterans this year and 30 or more in 2025. This expansion is made possible through donor support, which allows the organization to continue offering service dogs to veterans and first responders while raising awareness of dogs’ critical role in helping veterans and first responders manage PTSD.
Service animals provide critical support to veterans and first responders facing physical and mental challenges, assisting with tasks such as retrieving objects, opening doors, and maintaining balance. For those dealing with PTSD, anxiety, and depression, these dogs can detect signs of distress and intervene.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 5.3 million veterans, or about 30%, had a service-connected disability as of August 2023, with post-9/11 veterans experiencing exceptionally high rates.
An estimated 500,000 U.S. veterans and 30% of first responders could benefit from service dogs to manage PTSD but face barriers like two-year waitlists and training costs exceeding $30,000.
Programs like Canines for Heroes work to reduce these obstacles, providing timely support to veterans and first responders in need.
Sandra LaFlamme, President of Canines for Heroes, is deeply passionate about helping veterans and first responders overcome the challenges of PTSD. Motivated by the staggering statistic that 22 veterans take their own lives daily in the U.S., LaFlamme is committed to transforming lives through the healing power of service dogs. “A new approach to healing. Using dogs to build people. Our people are veterans and first responders with PTSD,” LaFlamme said.
Retired Lt. Col. Mark LaFlamme, founder of Canines for Heroes, is a combat veteran with over 800 combat hours spanning his 20-year career in the U.S. Air Force. Ahead of National Service Dog Day, LaFlamme emphasized the crucial role service dogs play in the lives of veterans and first responders battling PTSD. “These dogs are not just companions; they are lifelines,” said LaFlamme. “While we know we may never fully meet the overwhelming need, our team and donors are determined to do all we can to serve our veterans and first responders who have served us. This mission won’t be easy, but we’re committed to making as large an impact as possible, providing the most highly trained service dogs.”
Canines for Heroes provides highly trained service dogs to veterans and first responders suffering from PTSD. The organization’s mission is to help these individuals regain confidence and independence by partnering with a service dog.
Through an exclusive partnership with Top Tier K9, Canines for Heroes provides veterans and first responders with Level 1 Foundation Dogs. These dogs, trained in advanced obedience, are paired with veterans who undergo a structured process to certify them as service animals. Julie Madison of Top Tier K9 is instrumental in overseeing the training.
“We’re not just training dogs; we’re empowering veterans to build trust and bond with their dogs. This part of the process is paramount to the success of the veteran or first responder as they proceed through our curriculum.” Madison said. “Thanks to our donors, we can offer veterans and first responders a fresh start.”
LaFlamme stressed the importance of attracting more applicants and donor support to sustain the program’s growth. “Thousands of veterans and first responders could benefit from this program,” LaFlamme said. “Now is the time to encourage them to apply and for donors to help us meet the growing demand.”
Veterans and first responders interested in applying can do so at Canines for Heroes. Those wishing to get involved by attending a Canines for Heroes event, sponsoring a puppy, or donating can visit the Canines for Heroes Donation Page.
Training for this year’s participants begins Sept. 24, following National Service Dog Awareness Day. The selected veterans and first responders will start with online coursework before meeting their dogs in person to begin the intensive training. The process will continue over several months as participants work towards service dog certification.
About Canines for Heroes:
Founded in 2016, Canines for Heroes is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that provides veterans and first responders with PTSD the training, resources, and support needed to manage and train their service dogs. The organization has provided over 30 service dogs to veterans nationwide. Donor contributions enable Canines for Heroes to expand its reach and support more veterans in need. For more information, visit Canines for Heroes.
About Top Tier K9:
Founded in 2014, Top Tier K9 is a premier dog training company, recognized in 2024 as the World’s Greatest Dog Training Company. Specializing in its renowned Foundation Dog® programs, Top Tier K9 offers service, protection, and security dog solutions. In partnership with Canines for Heroes, Top Tier K9 helps veterans and first responders train their service dogs and provide ongoing support. For more information, visit Top Tier K9.