Heroes for Heroes – Our Veteran Programs Explained
Gerardo kneels next to his service dog Ginny
At Southeastern Guide Dogs, we serve veterans who cannot see, and those who have seen too much. We have the utmost respect for those who serve, and that’s why we provide remarkable dogs for veterans at no charge: guide dogs, service dogs, facility therapy dogs, emotional support dogs and Gold Star Family dogs. Here’s an overview of each type of dog.
Eric and guide dog Scout
Guide dogs
Our guide dogs offer independence and freedom to visually impaired veterans, restoring confidence and dignity. Veterans live and learn on campus for 21 days with help from their new companions. Gone are tentative steps and white canes, replaced by heads held high and brisk paces. Apply for a guide dog.
Morgan and service dog Foley
Service Dogs
Our service dogs help veterans heal from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). With unconditional love and loyalty, they respond to commands that help restore stability and wellbeing. After our 12-day class, veterans report powerful stories of reconnecting with family and society once again. Apply for a service dog.
Facility therapy dog Champie with his unit
Facility Therapy Dogs
When wounded warriors are far from home, there’s comfort in the paws of a friendly dog. Facility therapy dogs live with facility staff and work at military hospitals and clinics around the country. Clinicians report beneficial effects as our dogs ease fears, deliver calm, and take the focus off of medicine and memories. Apply for a facility therapy dog.
Andy and emotional support dog Thompson
Emotional Support Dogs
Our emotional support dogs warm the heart and soothe the soul for veterans with disabilities. Veterans improve their physical, social, and emotional wellbeing as the dogs provide companionship, relieve loneliness, and help mitigate chronic stress, anxiety, depression, or other limitations. Apply for an emotional support dog.
Alissa, Ella, and Gold Star Family dog Duke
Gold Star Family Dogs
Recognizing the sacrifices made when a family member dies in service to the nation, Southeastern Guide Dogs offers well behaved, loving companion dogs to Gold Star families in need. Apply for a Gold Star Family dog.
Here at Southeastern Guide Dogs, we like to say, “They’ve served us, now it’s our turn.” If you or someone you know is a veteran in need of one of our dogs, apply today.
