Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on all the things we are grateful for, including the sacrifices of our Veterans and First Responders. Many of these individuals return home with PTSD, which can cause severe anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Canines For Heroes is one organization that is taking action to help these individuals. They give highly trained service dogs to Veterans and First Responders with PTSD. These dogs provide emotional support and companionship to help individuals cope with their trauma. So why not give the gift of healing this Thanksgiving and support a cause that can make a real difference?
Canines for Heroes is a unique organization that focuses on matching highly-trained service dogs to individuals with PTSD. These dogs are trained to provide emotional support and to perform specific tasks that can help individuals manage their symptoms. Individuals that meet the requirements can be referred to the organization and are matched with the perfect puppy when the puppy is 8 weeks old. We then work with the recipient and the dog until they pass the PAWS 2019 ACT for American With Disabilities, which ensures that the dog is highly trained and capable of providing assistance.
Canines for Heroes doesn’t just focus on new dog matches. They also have a program that tests the eligibility of an individual’s current dog. If a Veteran or First Responder already has a dog, the organization tests the dog to make sure it can be trained to the PAWS 2019 ACT for American With Disabilities standard. If the dog passes the test, they can become a certified service dog and will receive additional training to support their human companion.
We are run by Veteran Mark LaFlamme, Lt Col US Airforce Retired, Founder and Vice President. We have been a 501 (c) 3 since 2016. We have been 100% successful and have matched many individuals with service dogs. Sadly, 22 American Veterans & First Responders commit suicide each day, and the benefits of having a service dog can be immeasurable in mitigating the individuals’ symptoms. Canines for Heroes has a target of tipping the scale, with the ultimate goal of reducing the number of suicides.
This Thanksgiving, consider donating to Canines for Heroes and supporting their mission to help Veterans and First Responders with PTSD. Their work has been proven to make a real difference in many people’s lives and has helped individuals to overcome their trauma. With the organization’s focus on matching the perfect dog to individuals, the benefits of a service dog can be tailored to the individual’s needs. Canines for Heroes is an excellent example of how we can support our Veterans and First Responders and give back to those who have given so much to us.