I have spent 8 years helping this incredible organization Save veterans. They do so by teaming the veteran with a service dog who becomes his partner for life.
K9 Partners for Patriots is a wonderful organization. I am a volunteer; I get to see the veterans come in with their dogs and work together in the training area. I get to talk to Veterans on the phone who are interested in learning more about the training program. K9 Partners for Patriots helps veterans, and they help dogs. It is beautiful.
I have been a part of this organization for 8 years now. In that time, K9 Partners for Patriots now has over 740 active program veterans, graduated 380 service dog teams and saved over 220 dogs, mainly from shelters. This is due to the outstanding leadership from the Executive Management Team, hard work and dedication from the staff, all our volunteers and program support personnel . We owe a debt of gratitude to our passionate and committed sponsors, grantors and donors who allow us to do what we do everyday in support of our veteran heroes!
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Everybody has a story; I’m not a veteran or an active Service Member. I came from corporate America but knew I wanted to give back to my community in a way that would make a real difference but I thought what could I offer this non-profit without any military or prior dog training experience?!
I worked with Cindy, our volunteer coordinator who introduced me to the K9P4P family of staff and volunteers while training me in their office. I observed the training classes, met some program veterans, and witnessed for myself the transformation that takes place each and every week of their 19-week program. I helped with some aftercare events, asked questions and learned all the elements of this operation from their Basic Class through graduation day and beyond. I have seen the miracles happen.
Mostly, I have seen a dedicated team of staff personnel, volunteers and an extended family of amazing people come together for a common purpose, to save the lives of our veterans who have given so much to their country as well as the lives of dogs that may have otherwise not been given their chance at life. Mary Peter is flawless and second to none in her execution of this program with her extensive knowledge of K9 training and handling as well as her commitment to saving veterans! Her staff and volunteers are equally of the highest caliber.
Going on 3 years later, I work on the grant team and help to keep this fantastic state-of-the-art program operating in a way that expands the program to even more veterans in need. My job is challenging and rewarding and I learn something new every day.
For me personally, I love what I do here. K9 Partners for Patriots is a place of comfort and a second family where friendships are formed, tears are cried and dried, milestones are marked and achievements are recognized and celebrated. I am honored to be a part of it.
I was the first veteran through this program and have been here since day one. I have seen the staff and volunteers treat our nation’s veterans with compassion and heartfelt love. I will be around this organization for a long time to come!
I volunteer for K9P4P for the past 2 years. In that time, I have witnessed Veterans walk through our doors, on their first day they would not make eye contact or give a greeting. As the 6 months of training progressed, so did the Veteran and their battle buddy. On the final day of graduation, the Veteran and their battle buddy were a confident team, the Veterans would be smiling and would greet us the dogs would patiently walk with their handler, both ready to watch each other's 6 .
K9P4P is an outstanding organization, founded by a woman who fearlessly protects and supports veterans and animals. From the moment you walk in, you know you're a part of the family. My favorite thing is that they don't breed dogs, they rescue and foster, or help a vet turn their own dog into a service animal. Can't recommend this place enough.
Have been going to school at K9 Partners for Patriots has changed my life and they are truly dedicated to helping veterans and re-homing dogs from shelters and training veterans and their dogs to be the best they can be they are truly a blessing
K9P4P is an elite organization ran by compassionate and professional individuals. I am proud to know them & collaborate with their team.
Helping Veterans with coping with the results of their service and adjusting to the changes made by their service is a wonderful way to express gratitude
They provide real world experiences during the transition period
Outstanding commitment to our brave warriors
When they accept you, you are a part of that family! It is amazing how far they have gone to help me and my dog. They have bent over backwards to help me train him correctly and address my pups specific problems. Everyone there is amazing!!
K9P4P helped me train a wonderful service dog! My quality of lide being has sky-rocketed. It is a wonderful program and the staff is like family. They continue to act as a support system and friends forever. I don't know what I would do without my service dog.
If a veteran is looking for more than just a training facility, this is the place! I have never felt more at home with friends and family than I have at K9P4P. Not only did Echo and I receive extremely profession training, but we became part of a growing family that actually cares for us. There are so many ways I can brag about K9P4P, but you need to experience it yourself.
DON'T GIVE UP! There are people and programs out there to help. PLEASE do not be one of the 22. They have your back.
K9 for Patriots is a great organization. They help veterans get out and interact with the community. Now with the new social worker it is helping even more and bringing veterans together. Once a vet completes there service it is always a difficult time to adjust. Organization like k9for Patriots is there to assist and always willing to help.
These people help my son so much My son was really having bad time coming home from overseas He want see K9 for Patriots And these people turned him around I'm so thankful for Mrs Mary and her people Thank you from bottom of our hearts Mary and Howard Brooks
Awesome non-profit aligning veterans with service dogs to help with their specific needs. Wonderful organization, well run and organized.
This professional and caring organization gave my son back to me. He suffered from PTSD and was self-medicating to control the pain. He became very isolated and withdrawn UNTIL he stumbled onto this wonderful program headed by Mary Peter. Over the course of a year, he came out of his shell with the help of a service dog and a very caring environment for veterans who suffer with PTSD, TBI Injury, or sexual abuse.
My son went back to college, graduated, and now works as a computer specialist at K9P4P. Recently, he also was licensed as a realtor and works with many different people that have many different needs. Jim is a true success story thanks to an organization that was willing to reach out and help him at a very critical time.
I also volunteered with this organization as I personally witnessed their transforming effect on my son.
Sincerely,
Lorrie Tatum
PS I tried to upload some photos but apparently they were too large.
I am a veteran going through K9P4P and this organization is great. This organization is here for vets and their pets and being part of the family is a life changer.
K9P4P helped me get my life back. Before I got my service dog I was afraid of leaving my home by myself. With the help of K9P4P, Lowla and I trained together building an unbreakable bond. She always has my back. She warns me when my adrenaline is rising, which allows me to take appropriate action for my medical condition before it is out of control . She also motivates me to walk regularly giving me purpose and confidence. I am forever grateful to Mary, her team of trainers and staff.
I’ll start this with a little back story on why how I ended up at the Door Step of this amazing,loving and caring nonprofit.I like many others left the military on a medical discharge,I was taken care of there back in 2012 and by the va .Receiving a service animal had been brought up many times between then and 3 years ago .I left the army lost,confused,out of control to an extent.I went home to my parents place,my father being in the spec ops community,my mom in the medical field.The army felt I was in good hands the situation would be fine .That lasted maybe a few days ,I was still at that point really not stable nor able to sleep or completely functional.I packed a little bit of stuff that fit in my single cab truck and headed to forest where I’d live in the truck-head into a small town then get hotel for a day or two .This cycle continued until the VA realized I needed more help,I went to place called the honor center in Gainesville Fl .I stayed there a couple months,Constantly having problems with staff,other vets etc .They really were not equipped to handle someone fresh out of the Middle East with Ptsd and a TBI ,they tried there best .I love them all like family we still talk about those days .I got connected with other programs while I was there .I spent a times in the hospital my quality of life out of control.My parents were getting ready to pull my finical fuse and take control of everything,At this point the attorneys were in place..I had heard about K9-parenters for patriots and my va social worker assisted me in filling out the online stuff and my Doctors was absolutely in love in with the idea ,He’s very much a dog person and a doctor who doesn’t believe more meds are a better idea .i Managed to get down there for the interview then probably a week later I was on my way to a group at the va and decided I’d go to there facility instead for 1 of 3 visits to show I was committed to coming.My anxiety was extremely high even for me that trip .i made it through the door and was asked to stay to meet a couple dogs after there class was over .I said yes thinking i already feel sick why not stay and get over it .Well it’s storming and in walks this beautiful lab mix.I then get told I’m going to sit in circle and do it didn’t have much of a choice at that point.This dog starts coming towards me ,he does this 3 more times and finally just sits in my lap ,he wasn’t light then he’s not know either and he’s currently snoring in my ear .It was match ,I got asked if I liked I said well yeah I think he already made that decision though.I had to make a few more commitment classes to receive.I shot home my buddy came over we spent like 3 days getting my apartment clean and ready.i had like a little money to get through the month.So I spent 10 bucks on Copenhagen,10 on cheap food for me and probably 70 on dog treats ,toys .
I had huge problem with money management and not understanding a budget.Once my service dog came into perspective I started placing him first that basically resolved my money problems because I started saving every penny I had for him .we started class about 3 weeks later,about 3/4 weeks into our training I feel breaking my right foot in a door way .Bailer spent a good 10 minutes with me getting me up and to the couch.I realized then I wasn’t alone and also that my foot was screwed up I’d wait to get it looked at we had training to and we’re going to graduate on time ,No not just basic but the advanced class as well.The sense of accomplishment I got from graduating both fazes was huge for me mentally.Ive found I can do things I used to do ,I can shop ,sleep in a bed I didn’t sleep in a bedroom for almost 6 years because I felt closed in,Ive come off a number of pain and anxiety meds due what bailer is able to do for me ,I bought a home two years after receiving bailer That probably wouldn’t have been possible.I look back at my life and I’m kinda like wow I didn’t all that and instead of a tattoo I got one cool looking toe to show how motivated I was lol.What I’m getting at is what goes on there is unique in that it’s so much more than a nonprofit,it’s changing the lives of veterans in a lot of aspects.Were learning new skills being held accountable and to high standards but an amazing staff.Its right at a 2 hour drive for me each way but my thought was if they believe in me I’ll give them the respect of being on time .
K9 Partners for Patriots, Inc. The most amazing group of people, completely dedicated to helping veterans like myself. All of us entering the facility have our issues, but let me tell you that everyone there truly goes above and beyond to work with each veteran and K9 team. When they tell you you're part of the family, they really mean it. They keep in touch with all of us through training and beyond. Always checking to make sure both handlers and their furry companions are doing well. I have a great deal of love for the bunch and will be forever grateful for all they've done and continue to do for all of us.
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My mom found this organization after her retirement as a Psychiatric nurse and director of nursing at a rehab facility in Atlanta. She wanted to give back to her fellow veterans using what she knows about recovery. This organization not only gave her volunteer work and fulfillment but also helped her cope with her own anxiety, PTSD, and trauma. They also helped her in getting a new service dog when hers passed from cancer. They have allowed her to heal and help other and find her best friend for this I will forever be grateful to them.
I have been honored to work with K9P4P for nearly 2 yrs now, teaching each newbie class some basic canine first aid and canine cpr. From Mary Peter, the founder of this organization, to the wonderful volunteers at the front desks, each person who walks through the front door is made to feel so very cared for and so very special. I have witnessed the growth of so many men and women who have been lucky enough to participate in this program...as corny as this sounds, my heart is always singing with joy when my class is over and I pack up my gear.........and i know if I feel this good, our veterans who get to stay and fulfill their own dreams with their pups, well they HAVE to be on top of the world as well, knowing that they have a true place of safety and comfort here at K9 Partners for Patriots.
I would encourage everyone to do your research and find that this is one of the finest, if not THE finest organization of it's kind. And then back up those feelings with donations of money or time...........it's something you will never ever regreat.
Joanne Peters
Nature Coast Therapy Dogs
I first became aware of this program through my son and daughter-in-law, back when it first started. I came down to Florida to spend time with my son and his family and went to the training facility with him to get an idea of the program. Over the years, since it started I've tried to make the trip a few times a year, just to watch the improvements to the personnel and the training provided. For the past three years, I've tried to get down there at least four times a year, just to spend time with the personnel, both staff and volunteers and see the new personnel in the program improve over time. To watch the people get a new lease on life is a blessing. They have found hope in life that they thought was lost. I myself found some meaning in what the do and went there to give my timeto assist with putting together furniture and help rearrange the facility, as needed. This year has been hard on me because I 've gotten accustom to getting away from my life here in North Carolina, every couple of months to visit and help out where I can and spend time with this wonderful orginization. We are a close knit group and love and respect each other, and when assistance is needed they are there. I am proud of each and everyone, I have flagged a few of the other commenters on the site out of my knowledge of meeting and talking with them over the years. Many others I've met and enjoyed my time with them. I look forward to the next chance I get to go that way; I really miss not being able to get out and about like we were use to. Until I get that chance, I try to stay informed by my son and daughter-in law as much as possible. This is one organization I truely miss being around, and how they have helped so many, (me included) even though I have not gone through the program, being there watching the others come alive again and find some meaning in life and sharing that experience is great for all of us. WE ARE NOT FORGOTTEN ANYMORE! I love the people who help keep the organization going and those that help sponser it. I can not begin to discribe the feelings I have when I am around these people. Keep up the GREAT work you do.
I GOT YOUR SIX. THANK YOU ALL, Pop.
To be able to see rescued dogs and veterans connect is a very humbling experience. You can see the powerful connection that they have for each other. As time goes on and training progresses trust is build between the two and it is a bond that is not easily broken. The hours of dedication and work that is put in by staff, volunteers, veterans and dogs is amazing. The dogs work just as hard as the veterans for one common goal, SUCCESS!
I was introduced to this program through my VA therapist during extensive treatment of PTSD. After being accepted into the program I began attending training sessions to observe while waiting for the next available class. I was totally amazed watching these vets and their pups grow into handlers and service dogs and couldn't wait to be a part of this. One day, upon arrival to observe, I happened upon a dog and his foster parents as they were leaving the facility. There was an immediate connection! That week I was blessed and was able to take Elvin home as we awaited an opening for the next training class. These people, from CEO to the receptionist have embraced me. They treat every vet with respect and treat every vet like family. After many weeks of training, hard work and dedication Elvin and I graduated as service dog and handler! I've had my dog for 3 years now and he has changed so many aspects of my life. K9P4P saved him and they also saved me. They continue to support me. They continue to encourage me. Without this program I don't know where I'd be today. Thank you all for not only being there for me but for all you do for our Veterans.
wonderful experience, staff makes you feel at home and like family, the instructions are purposefully done with the Vet and Dog in mind. I felt like I was back in the Military with my close buddies. when you have a down day they are there for you. if you have trouble training your dog they work closely with you and the animal. I would recommend K9P4P to anyone and all my veteran friends. Great organization.
K9 Partners for Patriots works hard every day to meet the needs of our veteran population coping with PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury and Military Sexual Trauma through service dog training at no cost to them. We are rescuing dogs in need of homes to partner with these veterans so two lives are able to be changed for the better.
This program conditioned my dog to help me with my disabilities, she is now my guardian angel. My guardian angel now responds to my triggers when I am having a panic feeling as a result from MST from the military. She also helps me get off my knees when I can’t lift up.
I have met several awesome dogs and former Sheriffs and others in the military , that have taken classes along side of my rescue bait dog and I , that have proudly taken many classes at Professional Dog training here in Ocala Fla... It has been a real honor to have met these remarkable men as well as loving and such well trained dogs that came from your amazing place !!!. I hope to one day visit you all and when I retire perhaps help to volunteer however I can . Thank you all for all that you do and making such a HUGE difference for all people needing a K9 partner and vice versa . !!! Thank you all for all that you do, and God bless you all !!! XOXO
I was blessed to experience the complete program and continuing to reap the benefits the training and support provides. This is a highly professional team of trainers and support staff. My life status has improved having been provided a trained "battle buddy" I never have to walk with the challenges of my wounds alone thanks to K9P4P.
Sincerely, W. Carroll
K9 Partners for Patriots Inc.help my son ( Sonny Brooks) with the best friend he could ever have Aquino his service dog My son has PTSD and my wife and I were afraid he do something trouble But he found K9 for Patriots and they saved his life with Aquino and lot of support He is now living on his own with his service dog and another puppy My wife and I thank K9 Partners for Patriots for giving back our son He still has problems but with Aquino there with him he's lot better So my self and my wife we thank K9 Partners for Patriots from bottom of our heart
I am a veteran with severe Ptsd and until I found K9 Partners for Patriots I only left my house to go to work and even then that was a struggle for me. It was through this program that I was able to develop some independence and start having a life again.
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This organization saved my life I was practically a shut-in. The only time I left my house was to go to work and even that was becoming more and more difficult. I was finding myself struggling with my PTSD and major depressing symptoms more and more every day. I had dogs at home but didn't realize that they could be trained to help me cope with the world outside of my house. Since I suffer from some other medical issue my dogs also learned to alert to them which plus. I know go out into the world a lot more than I did before and I am able to reconnect with my family which I had totally cut off before.
I volunteer at the local humane society and while working there came across a dog who had been returned twice due to his high energy. I fostered him for a month and then contacted K9 Partners for Patriots where he was matched with a veteran in need. A win-win for our community!
My husband is a disabled vet with PTSD. He found this wonderful program and it has turned into a family for him. Everyone there has a big heart and helps each others in so many ways. My husband just finished the basics and now is entering the 2nd part of this, but I can see already how this is helping and going to continue to help my husband and our family.
This organization has changed my life. After getting out of the Army I spiraled out of control into an ocean of depression, survivors guilt, and anxiety. It took the VA years to finally diagnose me correctly, however during that time I found myself self-medicating with street drugs to try and numb/remove the emotional pain and anxiety I experienced on a daily basis. I found K9 Partners for Patriots (K9P4P) when I was at my lowest point, and they immediately brought me into their family and have stood beside me ever since. Their service dog program is different from others in that they train the veteran - who in turn trains their service animal under the watchful eye of the trainers on staff. This method of training is very empowering and it helped me and my service dog build an incredibly strong connection.
I am grateful for this organization and how it not only saves the lives of the various puppies it rescues but also saves the lives of the veterans who enter the program as well. If you are a veteran who suffers from PTSD, MST or TBI and feel as though you are not living your life, I urge you to please reach out to K9P4P. They will help you start living your best life!
The K9 Partners for Patriots team is very knowledgeable, caring, and inviting. They welcome everyone with open arms. Their Service Dog training program is phenomenal. They patiently work with every Human and Dog team to make sure they support each other. As a volunteer and foster Mom, I have experienced some of the most heart warming moments between a Veteran and his or her Battle Buddy. I have also seen the renewed freedom Veteran's finally find because of the mutual love and respect the Battle Buddies have for each other. K9 Partners for Patriots defines real hope for our Veterans.
My daughter came to K9 as an Army veteran. She received a warm welcome from the day she walked through the door the very first time. She and her service dog have gone through the training and advanced training stages. The training that K9 Partners for Patriots gives is very professional and with love for both the veterans and their service dogs.
K9 Partners for Patriots is a professional organization that is devoted to helping veterans suffering from PTSD in training their canines to become certified Service Dogs. The staff is compassionate, patient and dedicated in their teaching, support and in their commitment to the veterans, the community and in their mission for professionalism.
Personally, I appreciate the entire staff's involvement in their service and devotion to this organization. My husband is a veteran of the Viet Nam War. Being an older vet with an older dog did not disqualify him. The staff worked diligently with each trainee despite their age, gender or other disabilities in achieving their goals. Their attitude and environment was always positive and one that "you can do it". The staff was interested in each trainee and you felt part of this "family". My husband and his dog are forever grateful for this opportunity and remain faithful in practicing their drills twice daily to maintain the dog's performance and his ability to respond appropriately to each command.
This program has enriched all our lives and has unified my husband and dog's relationship. It has provided the security and ability for my husband to lead a more active and independent life. We are forever grateful to this superb organization for their interest, high standards and dedication in their mission in training service dogs and their veteran handlers to achieve their goals and certification in this much needed community program.
I just recently started this oustanding program, however, I have known about it for several years. I beleive K9P4P is the work of God through Mary Peter and all of her truly AMAZING compassionate staff!! They partnered me with my new best buddy "Duke"...... whom I truly couldn't imagine living life without now! He is AWESOME!! I will be forever grateful to K9P4P for what they have provided me. Furthermore, I highly recommend this to any veteran willing to make the commitment. It is an absolutely PRICELESS gift....Thanks so much and God Bless you all!!
With the help of K9 Partners for Patriots, Inc. I have seem my husband come alive. From meeting his Service Dog to training him what a blessing for my husband and our family. From not wanting to do anything or go anywhere just be a lone to now being able to get out and to things with family and a few friends. It's still work for him but he has his Service Dog by his side and a new family K9 Partners for Patriots that are there for him to encourage and support him. Now he faces cancer with many trips to Moffitt a head with his Service Dog, family and new family K9P4P help and support he will make it. Thank You!!!!
I am a US NAVY VETERAN and I suffer from PTSD . I learned of K9P4P through my therapist at the VA . I went to their website read about the program and decided to go ahead and fill out the application for the program and send it through. I received an Email back from Wil the Veteran Liaison about 24 hours after I sent in the application. Wil stayed I needed to get the necessary paperwork sent back to get things moving along so he could setup an Interview . I then gathered up all the necessary paperwork and sent it back to Wil . I then received both an Email from Wil along with a follow up phone call. Wil stated I was all set for an Interview on Tuesday May 1 st at 1:00pm . After I hung up with Wil I became very nervous thinking did I do the right thing by signing up for the program. About three weeks passed and the next thing I knew it was Tuesday May 1st time for my interview. I found the K9P4P complex very easily , as I was pulling into the parking lot I was overcome with all kinds of feelings that were running through my head. I entered the building and spoke to the office manager Kellie who immediately made me feel very comfortable, I then felt less nervous and less apprehensive. Kellie than went to get Wil and returned and introduced Wil to me. Wil then shook my hand and proceeded to give me a big Hug and stated we hug here and we are one Big Family. Wil then showed me around the facility. We then made our way to the mockup Restaurant were Wil proceeded to Interview me , part way through Wil asked for my Drivers License and proceeded to his office , as I waited I was once again overcome by my nerves with a million things running through my head. Wil then returned with my license and said Welcome to the Family Brother and then turned to me and gave me a big hug and smiled at me with a sincere look which put me totally at ease and made feel that I was now officially part of K9P4P. Rather then ramble on I will conclude with that this program is ever so Special and well worth going through. Everyone treats you with the Utmost Respect from Mary along with all the Trainers down . Everyone is made to feel they are part of the family. Receiving your Dog is a totally great expierence . Once you start to bond with your Dog words alone can not explain the feeling that you are overcome with and the closeness you expierence with your new Battle Buddy. It was totally amazing for me the feelings I felt and have since felt on a daily basis . It was amazing how much better I begain to feel along with my flashbacks starting to minimize. I can not put into words the feeing one expierences In closing let me say I can not Stress enough how Great this Program is !!!! It has Totally changed my Life around !!! Thank You Mary and Staff for all You have Done for me. I am Forever Indeded to You All for saving this Veteran along with all the other Veterans on a Daily Basis !!! Again from the bottom of My Heart Thank You to My New Family !!
To any Vets out there suffering from PTSD you need to get involved in this Life Saving Program !!!!!
I am a disabled veteran. While sitting in the V.A. Hospital I met a woman whom I seen before that appeared to be closed down emotionally. Today however her appearance was quite differnt. She was radiant somewhat up beat. As I approached her to say hello., I noticed she had a service dog with her. I asked how she was feeling. Her response threw me for a loop. She stated she finally had someone in her life she can trust, she pointed down to her service dog. I asked how she was able to attain the dog she told me through a program for patriots. She went onto to explain how K9partners for patriots not only gave her a dog and help train her to obtain the dog but gave her ,her dignity back. Unfortunately do to my disabilities I can't qualify for the program. Seeing the change in her was enough for me to know the program is top rated. Thank you for helping my fellow Veterans.
I began volunteering for K9 Partners For Patriots a little over four years ago, and have found it to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I have always had a love for dogs, and to pair that love with helping our nation's heroes heal the wounds of war has been astounding. Not only is the organization helping our veterans find purpose and meaning, but the lives of many dogs are saved as well. It has been an honor and privilege to be a part of this powerful family of veterans and their battle buddies, staff and volunteers.
I'm a multiple theater Combat veteran. I have had very bad PTSD for more than 20 years when i learned about K9P4P, My wife was the one that found and talked with the founder and CEO Mary Peter. For this UN-believable organization to except me was an huge mile stone in my life and going through the program was life changing and it has been a life saver (literally) My battle buddy is a Golden Doodle Name JOJO and she helps me on a daily bases with my anger issues, my PTSD,my balance ( i have drop foot and nerve damage in both my legs), and surprisingly my diabetic problems. She is my companion and goes just about everywhere with me. I never knew what a non-profit was till i came through there doors and seen with my own eyes that they do everything for the Veteran and there dog with very little help. I wish more organizations were about the Veteran and not what they get out of it. Thank god for Mary Peter and her non-profit..
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It's simple: 1) they rescue dogs from a shelter and place them with a veteran that needs them desperately. 2) The veteran and dog get the training and socialization that they need to properly function in life. What could be more perfect! I'm donating.
K9 Partners for Patriots matched me up with a wonderful dog. Mary and her staff are very professional, kind, warm and genuine. If I was only better with words, I could tell you how safe and loved they made me and my veteran brothers feel. I would be lost without my battle buddy, Max. We bonded at first sight.
K9 partners for Patriots changed my life. The training that Max and I recieved allows us to go everywhere together and gave me back my life. I’m so grateful.
I suffer from PTSD from my service in Vietnam, and also Agent Orange issues. It was suggested by the VA that a dog would assist me in controlling of my diabetes. I had a dog which already detected when by sugar levels fluctuated. This made K9 Partners for Patriots a great fit. I was able to train with my dog to allow him certification as a service dog. We have reached the half way point of training, and we both enjoy the training and binding that we have experienced. Looking forward to graduation.
From the day I heard of this organization I wanted to be a part of it. It took me a long time to finally be able to commit to it. I am do glad I did too because it so far has been one of the best things I have done. The staff and everyone that associates themselves with this organization is just absolutely amazing. I cant say enough and wish that every veteran out there can be a part of it. Dont be scared to walk in. Everyone is very inviting and I dont know what I would be doing right now had I not found this place.
From the minute I walked in the door I could feel the love coming from every person or animal I encountered. This place just feels like I’ve come home.
We had the pleasure to partner with K9 Partners for Patriots, Inc. We housed one for their veterans and his dog while they were going through the program. We saw the amazing transformation before our eye the veteran and his dog discovering how to live with each other. The first day when the dog was untrained and the veteran with the stress on his face to the end of the program when they were both smiling and very comfortable with each other. We saw the stress melt away as the weeks when by and they became more comfortable and bonded. We are so thankful for this program and that we were able to be a part of it. We look forward to working with them again very soon.
K9 partners for patriots is so much more than what you would picture,what’s seen it’s a family of veterans and people helping veterans who support us with unconditional love,accountability and so much more.My life was an absolute mess Jan of last year when I first started this amazing process,I was paired with Bailer on a day I really wasn’t supposed to be there.We had about 3 weeks together before our training started,I started showing emotions I hadn’t seen myself show in years rather fast with him.I know I Having him with me help tremendously I have an actual productive relationship with my parents I haven’t had that since 2012 or so ,normally there cleaning up mess’s and making sure my bills were paid within about a month of having bailer my mom and dad quickly realized I was placing Bailers needs before mine in return mine were getting meet for the most part.I just bought a home this month,just over a year go if I had kept down the track I was on my parents would have taken my rights away the hole fudchiary thing .When I have Bailer I don’t use a crutch or Cain I can navigate situations I would have never been able to before social and physical.Im also not isolating for days on end and I have another family there were free to come down when we need too or group functions.
The K9 Partners for Patriots team is very knowledgeable, caring, and inviting. They welcome new partners and volunteers with open arms, and they're just a great group to work with. The service they provide to veterans is invaluable and truly makes an impact on their quality of life.
I'm a 20 year, 100% service conected disabled Veteran.
I was house bound with physical and psychological disabilities for over 6 years.
K9 Partners for Patriots Inc. help me get my life back. The training that my Service Dog "Precious Pearl and I recieved is invaluable.
We are a team and together I now have the ability to live a more enriched life.
My pictures show Pearl and I enjoying activities that I hadn't done in years.
K9 Partners for Patriots is a safe place to not just train, but to reconnect with other Veterans. They advacate to support Veterans and their need for a Service Dog.
This training is totally free for Veterans.
K9 Partners for Patriots gave me life again. After several combat injuries I have several medical issues due to my combat injuries. They gave me a reason to live again and get out.
Trained my older Dachshund to be a PTSD service dog. Even at his advanced age, they were able to give him, and myself, the training necessary so that with him I can go out in public much more often than I had been. It is amazing how well behaved and alert to my needs he now is.
This is by far the best thing I could have done for my ptsd. The volunteers are extremely well trained to handle all types of k9s as well as veterans. My life has changed for the better thanks to the k9p4p. I was out of the Army for almost 3 years before I found k9p4p. I almost never left my house, went to stores, not even grocery shopping. I had been prescribed several medications which made me more or less a zombie. My wife suggested I try k9p4p with our puppy at the time Chuck Norris. He has helped me for almost 3 years now. I go to stores, grocery shop, I can even go to walmart if its not a weekend. I will always be grateful to k9p4p for giving me a life back.
As a retired Psychiatric Nurse, Veteran and dog lover, finding K9P4P was an answer to the big question; What to do in retirement?
Being able to provide psychological support to my fellow Veterans through a program that works wonders is a joy! The progress I have seen by Veterans with PTSD, TBI and MST as they work their way through this program training their dogs is phenomenal! It is my priviledge to be a part of it.
As a visitor, a vet told me how profoundly his small dog changed his life for the positive. He was very open re his experience
I only been in the program for a few weeks and since day one everyone has treated me like family, I can already tell changes in my dog and in myself. I’m excited to see what is to come.
As a spouse I can not express how thankful I am for this program. After being medically discharged my husband was traveling down a very dark path, when being in the military is all you know finding a new purpose seems impossible. Mary saved not just my husband but our family when she started K9P4P and we will forever be grateful. Being able to connect with other spouses who understand the struggles of loving someone who is fighting their way to a new purpose is amazing. Thank you for being the family we needed in our darkest hour.
After trying for years to get a service dog from the va I decided to get my own dog when I heard about Mary Peters and k9 partners for patriots Mary and her volunteers are wonderful I have difficulty walking and fall a lot and they were so patient with me I feel like a new person now with my dog Rex god bless Mary
I have been volunteering at this nonprofit for over a year, and last year for me was very hard.. My husband died and I was struggling to find purpose in my life. I now find it every time I step through the doors of K9P4P! The veterans and enlisted are the most wonderful people ever! They have faced things I don't even want to think about, but yet they were comforting me. I have seen a veteran who could not speak or look at anyone become one of the trainers and foster care homes for our dogs that need foster care. I cannot say enough about the staff, Mary, Jeannie, Ron, Crystal and Kellie. They work and give more than any other people I know. All the staff, veterans, and volunteers are like family and it truly is a "safe place" for anyone who needs a safe place. I am thankful to God for letting me be a small part of this great organization. Without them, I would not have made it through last year. I truly feel as a volunteer you get so much more than you give. A hug from a veteran who a few months ago couldn't talk to you is a treasure beyond measure
Their devotion to veterans with PTSD, TBI and MST is inspiring. Veterans are finding purpose, hope and healing learning to train their own service dog.
K9 Partners for Patriots has given me a new life. I am a veteran who before this organization was practically a recluse. I now leave my house with the help of my service dog Cherokee and we are able to enjoy a life that I forgot existed. We spend time with family and friends that we haven't been able to enjoy in years out of fear and anxiety.
I've been a volunteer with this "family" for almost a year, and it has really opened my eyes to the struggles of some of our veterans! Watching them bond with their service dogs as they progress through their training is amazing. I am very proud to help this program in any way I can. It is making a difference in the lives of both veterans and dogs!