Our Goals are Streamlined and Specific: A Reflection on Working with Veterans and First Responders in Sarasota

by | Mar 15, 2023 | Dogs, Service Animals, Veteran

At first, our goal was to help Veterans and First Responders with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) around the country. We sponsored some great dogs and families, but we didn’t see them giving back to our community. So, we decided to focus exclusively on providing services for those in Sarasota and Manatee counties. In this blog post, I want to reflect on how our goals have kept us focused on providing meaningful and helpful support for Veterans and First Responders in these two counties.

We crafted a mentor program with the Knights of Columbus that would provide a sense of community for both parties involved. Through this program, not only do we provide much needed support to those suffering from PTSD, but they also have access to a network of people who are willing to lend an ear when needed. Additionally, we have partnered with local refe rral PTSD agencies that offer additional clinical support beyond what we can provide as dog trainers.
We take great care in selecting the right dog trainers and breeders to work on our team because they need to be family people themselves who understand the importance of taking a collaborative approach when working with others. Nates Honor Animal Rescue is our referral partner for rescue service dogs. Their Animal Behaviorist, and amazing leadership give us a top-notch opportunity to bring a high- performance pup to a ready recipient. When it comes to our clients who often face challenges related to their PTSD; we strive to make sure they feel supported and listened to during every step of the journey. For us all to behave in private the way we want the public to understand a true service dog— with passion for excellence—we look to always set an example for everyone involved by being diligent about maintaining high standards at all times.

Conclusion

By setting specific goals that are tailored towards helping Veterans and First Responders in Sarasota and Manatee counties, we have been able create meaningful programs that benefit both parties involved—not only do those dealing with PTSD receive much needed assistance from us, but also members of our local community are able to build relationships through mentorship programs or by referring them towards clinical resources if necessary.

100% of our recipients have integrated into the job force or to meaningful volunteerism. We believe that taking this approach allows us to provide the best possible service while staying true to our mission of helping others through compassionate caregiving, which is why we continue working hard every day!

The need to aid veterans in Sarasota and Manatee County Florida in any way possible is growing, and giving them the reliable support of a dog can help drastically. Canines For Heroes is doing an incredible job to make this mission come true, but they need our help! They need more donations so that more of these life-saving dogs can be provided for veterans in need. Let’s stand together with Canine for Heroes and make sure all of our veterans get the care and support they deserve. Donate now and witness how your money goes towards making a veteran’s life that much better. We owe it to them for all the sacrifices they make for us – let us show them how grateful we are by coming together to provide these loving animals that bring smiles on so many faces.
Your donations make a difference!