K9s For Warriors

FANTASTIC charity. It’s crystal clear that the American Warrior’s future well being and the organization’s expertly trained therapy K9’s are at the center of all they do. Professional, Efficient and most importantly EFFECTIVE. Highly recommend!

I have fostered in the K9 For Warriors program for over six months. They say that they are contributing to both ends of the leash. My end of the leash is taking care of Foster dogs on the weekends and other times that they need to be with me I have always had dogs in my life, but I am not going to have a forever dog so this is a way to fulfill my end of the leash. Everyone of the dogs that I have fostered are absolutely wonderful companions and will be fostered to a deserving service person. Everyone that I have talked to in my retirement community has applauded my work with K9 For Warriors and I can say several of them have been interested in fostering also. I look forward to my weekend with my foster K9s for Warriors so that I may contribute to their upbringing.

I have had the privilege of working with K9s for Warriors as a weekend foster for a service dog in training, and my experience has been nothing short of incredible. The professionalism and positivity of their staff stand out, making it clear how deeply committed they are to their mission. Having worked with several nonprofits, I can confidently say that K9s for Warriors is exceptional in its organization and impact. Weekend fostering has been a rewarding experience for my family, particularly for my children, as it has allowed them to actively contribute to a cause that supports our nation's warriors. This organization truly goes above and beyond, and I am proud to be a part of their efforts.

I have had the pleasure of working directly with K9's for Warriors organizing a bake sale with my company. Joshua was so helpful and accommodating, and was always quick to respond to any questions we had, or provide the necessary tools needed to make our bake sale a huge success! He also arranged two veterans and their canine companions to join us as ambassadors for the organization, and everyone loved the interaction with them. Our future fundraising plans involve organizing a 5k walk/run in the Spring, and another bake sale later in the Fall of 2025. I have already reached out to Joshua and he is excited to work with us again, and is ready to help in any way possible. K9's mission is one many of us are passionate about, and we will continue to support and fundraise for them.

K9s for Warriors is an absolutely incredible organization that truly goes above and beyond in supporting veterans. From the moment I connected with them, it was clear how personal and dedicated they are to their mission. The team is so easy to work with—every interaction has been seamless and professional, with an evident passion for what they do. I am honored to have had a warrior and their service dog attend one of our school events, and it was incredibly moving to witness the not only the bond between them, but how life changing this organization has been to one of our nation's veterans. The impact K9s for Warriors has on veterans' lives. AND the lives of shelter dogs is nothing short of amazing, and their commitment to healing and support is truly inspiring. I am beyond grateful for the work they do and will continue to support them annually. Thank you, K9s for Warriors!

I’ve had the privilege of working with K9s for Warriors through my current role over the past two years, and I can’t say enough about their incredible mission and team. Their dedication to supporting our nation’s heroes is unmatched, and they’re always finding innovative ways to expand their programs and reach more Veterans in need. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to make an impact, I highly encourage you to learn more about K9s for Warriors and get involved!

I have had the privilege of working with K9s for Warriors over the past five years. Their passion for pairing K9s with warriors to create lasting bonds is truly inspiring. The staff exemplify care and compassion, consistently going above and beyond to fulfill their mission. K9s for Warriors is deeply dedicated and highly professional in their pursuit of making a meaningful impact.

This organization has the most worthy mission! Their team is passionate and dedicated. They show up and lean in and participate with great enthusiasm in our efforts to bring attention to their dogs and veterans. K9s for Warriors is a professional , well established and excellent nonprofit who's own recipients are ambassadors and educators and support their continued efforts. We are proud and honored to work for their cause.

I first learned about K9's several years ago when a friend of mine I served with in Afghanistan was struggling with significant mental health issues relating to his combat experiences. Several of us got together on numerous occasions to help, but nothing seemed to work. One of our friends heard about K9's for Warriors and we got our buddy accepted into the program. Since graduating and getting his service dog, his life has blossomed. He is happy, well-adjusted and employed. I have no doubt that dog saved his life!!

My company now supports this organization through fund raising activities, and I couldn't be prouder!

If you value truth, if you want an actual “ Service Dog “ , stay as far away from this place. After 5 years of watching a corrupt leadership abuse its power, cause substantial damage to veterans and employees, I was forced away from doing what I truly loved. Because I pushed back against the dogs going out to warriors when they were NO where near ready. And that was with 5-8 class size. Now after Rory Diamond couldn’t handle the heat after his failed attempts to bolster his political career . And the President “ Brett Simon himself being forced to resign for inappropriate text to female employees. But somehow, in all that . They are now pushing out 12 plus teams a month. Likely still “ buying “ their dogs. If your a Veteran, trust a 20 year SFC and stay as far away as possible’mm

K9s For Warriors is always out in the community sharing their mission and giving back. They're more than just asking but also giving. I see their work all over the country. K9s is truly saving lives of our veterans. I'm so impressed with their progress and what they've accomplished so far.

The work they also do for our first responders I've been able to witness firsthand as a spouse of an officer.

Thank you, K9s For Warriors!

As a veteran with PTSD and a recipient of a SD from K9s For Warriors, I can’t thank them enough for giving me my life back.

From the moment I applied they kept in touch each month while I was waiting for my class date. Checking in with me regarding my personal needs, to provide information regarding the program, or waitlist updates. I never expected this but it was nice to know I was not forgotten about or just another number. Knowing someone cared meant a lot to me during my time of need.

Once at K9s I felt welcomed and instantly cared for like family. There was nothing I needed. From the living accommodations, the food, the training, the support, and all of the staff and volunteers. I felt like K9s had a plan for everything so that I only had to focus on my success with my new service dog. The campus was amazing and was the first time in years that I felt safe and was able to actually sleep well.

After leaving K9s campus and returning home they continued to stay in contact on a monthly basis and often times more frequently. To know they continue to care about my success is greatly appreciated and has been tremendously helpful as I continue my journey to get back to the life I once lived.

Thank you for everything you do K9s For Warriors and thank you for my new best friend. You have given me more than I can write in a review and have not only changed my life but also the lives of my family and friends.

I recently started volunteering with K-9's for Warriors and it has been a tremendously rewarding experience. The staff are all welcoming and a pleasure to work with. I've had the privilege of attending two graduation ceremonies and it is heartwarming to see the warriors paired with their dogs starting their journeys together. This program is life changing for the warriors,

I have a unique perspective with K9 for Warriors. I'm a father whose son seeked out K9's for Warriors for help. I've experienced first hand the blessing it has been for my son. We're so proud of our sons service in the military and his service to country. However it left scars and not the ones you can see. When he was discharged and trying to assimilate back into life home, we noticed a significant change. Psychologically he wasn't himself. Public places made him feel anxious, he had large mood swings and emotionally he was on edge. The VA diagnosed it as PTSD. This part of the story is all to familiar for veterans because many doctors treat PTSD with drugs to mask the symptoms. And like most, it goes on for years and creates more problems than it does solutions. Not happy, my Son found K9's and educated us on the progress these pets provided veterans. At first I was skeptical but then I thought of all the service animals that have helped people who are blind or have physical handicaps and I thought why not psychological? My son was so excited when he got the news, , he was on the list and he was next in line to get his service dog. In his eyes it took forever but once he received his companion, he knew it was worth the wait. From the day he was united with his canine warrior to today the change in his attitude, emotions, self worth and those who mean so much to him was life altering. He was excited about the future and felt the best had yet to come. As parents we started to see greatness again where dreams, goals and aspirations were topic of conversations regularly. I'm convinced it's because of the 6 sense his warrior canine has, recognizing those things that upset him and helping him through them by always being there. I hope this story may help another veteran or parent who's seeking help for their loved one. K9's for Warriors was an answer to prayers. May they continued to be blessed.

Following our April 2016 relocation to JAX, we found K9’s For Warriors when searching the web for a local non-profit animal or veteran organization to support. How lucky we were to find K9FW, bundling both together. Our family is honored to support K9FW both on a volunteer and donor level. Engaging on campus with the warrior team provides us special insight into the effort everyone contributes, ensuring we are reducing veteran suicide with every graduating warrior/dog team.

Having experienced the heartbreak K9’s for Warriors so passionately works to avoid, we use every opportunity available to educate others about their mission. Sharing the story of Shari Duval and her vision for K9’s has helped us encourage others to join the team. Staff and volunteers work together, assisting veterans suffering from PTSD as they seize the opportunity to pair with a service dog who can change the trajectory of their post-active-duty life and tremendously impact their family’s lives as well. The transparency of the organization is refreshing to us and we fully support the manner in which they utilize funds to further enhance the lives of veterans and their new battle buddies.

Everyone associated with this group TRULY cares about their mission. My family is honored to support their cause and look forward to all of our future involvement!

I have had the privilege of volunteering with K9s for Warriors in many capacities since 2014. I have watched them grow from a small home with 14 crates in a garage to their present campus which has the capability of serving the needs of many of our Veterans suffering with the silent wounds of war. I have done Community Events with K9’s for many years and have heard so many great personal success stories from our graduates who have shared their experiences with attendees. If anyone would like to experience what K9s for Warriors is all about please consider attending one of their monthly graduations where you can see for yourselves the amazing work that this organization does!!

After reading two reviews from clients I am shocked that Facebook would recommend this organization. Everyone knows that a service dog can save lives of people with PTSD but the dog has to be competent and safe. I have been a dog handler for a SAR team for over 10 years and know what type of k9’s you need for all type of situations. I am very saddened that this organization is receiving monies in FB( especially mine!! ) First of all what dogs are they using and where are they getting them?? I am very upset!! Please contact me with the answers to my questions. Sincerely Steve Donovan stevedonovan01@gmail.com

I was wondering how organizations and some individuals are giving K9 for warriors a high rating after the news on NPR about how the previous "CEO" was stealing funds to enrich himself. The man and other volunteers were also giving veterans dogs that were never meant to be service dogs. It is a shame for organizations and individuals to support such a company, that hurts us veterans and is not helping but rather making a profit for only one man, the ex CEO? I am curious to know how you rate K9 for dog so high after the news on this Man?

This is a honest review from a recipient that received a service animal from this organization. I personally feel it’s important to reveal to the public this information especially after I have addressed my concerns regarding the substandard training of some of these service animals which were presented both in writing and verbally to the CEO of this organization. First, I want to say the intent of this organization to provide service animals to disabled veterans is commendable and noteworthy. I feel that every other aspect of this organization involving administrative practices, day to day operations, and the training program to house the incoming veterans to receive their service animal is spot on point and phenomenal. However, the main mission of this program is to provide highly trained service animals to veterans which is not being met either by Assistance Dog International (ADI)/American with Disability Act (ADA) qualification criteria. I attest that the service dogs that were given to veterans during my stay were aggressive in nature which consisted of growling, lunging, attacking each other, and showing signs of unprovoked aggression. The dogs could not remain behaviorally stable in certain environments which caused more trauma and problems for the veteran especially during our stay on site as well as when we returned home with our service dog. I attended the Class of October 2021 along with 9 other women. Out of 10 women that received a service dog, 8 of those service dogs were returned because the aggressive behaviors and them being behaviorally unstable. Also, three or four of these women were repeats to the K9 for Warriors class as their previous dogs were returned for reason of aggressive or unstable behaviors. To be completely honest, I believe as a group, we should have addressed and questioned these aggressive behaviors and manners that were present and displayed while we were going through the initial 3 weeks training at the training site. These dogs would lunged, growled, and attack one another in a group setting especially while in the public, at restaurants, and on the training site. Most of the dogs were not trained to ignore distractions and behave poorly thereby causing several intense and sad moments where veterans broke down and cried due to frustration and not being able to handle the aggressive behaviors displayed by their dogs. Some even wanted to quit but the training instructor would talk them out of it saying to “trust the process” and help them momentarily to get pass focusing on the aggressive behavior by saying it will get better. More often than not, the class trainers would blamed the dog’s behavior on us as we were told that the dogs were feeding off our anxiety and some classmates believed it, not knowing any better that the dogs just lacked proper training as service dog. Additionally, our dogs were so aggressive that in our class group photo, each classmate’s and their dogs were 2 to 4 feet apart from the other because the dogs aggression during the photo shoot could not be restrained from attacking one another. There was also one classmate’s dog that stood out more than anyone else. This classmate’s dog was so aggressive and uncontrollable that they switched the dog out after a week and half and gave her a second dog that was worse in nature to the first dog. This classmate’s new dog could not even walk one lap on the walking track because it was so untamed and out of control. The behavior of her dog affected her so much that she started not coming in to eat but once a day because she did not want to interact with others because it would prompted her dog in an aggressive frenzy with other dogs. Believe it or not, this dog and the veteran graduated from the program even when she could not control or even walk one lap with her dog. Needless to say, she was the first to return her dog. Yet, out of 8 of 10 veteran women, we experience even more aggressive behavior from our dogs once we returned home. One classmate service dog in particular had attacked and bite her small child on the face and displayed other behaviors like stealing food from the family table after a few weeks at home. Another classmate’s dog was so behaviorally uncontrollable, that her dog pulled her down a flight of stairs and fractured her hip. As for my service dog, he started lunging, growling and barking at people at my apartment complex and I could not have anyone come over without him excessivley barking and charging to the door anytime someone knocked. Even after being provided two outside trainers to address my service dog’s behavior, my dog still would excessively bark and would charge at guests, maintenance workers, and family when they entered the apartment and he even began to digress in acting aggressively toward people walking by or entering my apartment complex after the training sessions. Now, as a handler, I felt as though I was walking around with a lethal weapon, not sure if or when he would do something to harm someone which would make me liable. I finally had to come to a very hard decision to return my service dog back to this organization or I could continue to be seek more training to deal with my dog’s problems which would continue to add more anxiety and frustration to my life. I chose to return him especially after encountering him charging after a maintenance person after I opened the door and caught him by the collar before anything could happen. I don’t know what my dog would have done but it was not a moment that I would allow it to happen. At any rate, I called the next day to return him and K9FW was somewhat not surprised that I had called and we arranged for a pick up of my dog. I spent over a year with my service dog whom I do miss tremendously because I was attached to him. He was basically a good dog in general, but lacked avoiding distractions, displayed sporadic aggressive behavior, and was overly protective of me, all traits and manner not conducive of a service animal. Even though there has been a change of leadership in K9 For Warriors, there are still training issues that warrant an overhaul of the entire dog training program and to relook at the type of dogs they are given to veteran that show substandard behavior especially during the initial training class with the veteran. K9 for Warriors have to know that it’s more than just getting the dogs to meet the requirement for the public access certification. These dogs must perform and function as a highly trained service that are not aggressive, can ignore distractions, and must be well manner at all times. Last month, I learned that another graduate in my state was experiencing similar issue with her dog which means this organization still have to work on training issues. I gave this organization a 2 star because the mission of this organization is to provide highly trained to veterans which they are not living up to its own mission.

My grandpa was a doctor in WWII. Traumatized by what he saw and experienced, his life and the lives of his family and the next generation were affected. He spent the rest of his life in a Veteran’s home, heavily sedated. He could’ve been released but my mom wouldn’t sign the release after having experienced his erratic, frightening behavior, once home from the war. I remember him visiting us a couple times a year, talking to us in slow motion because of the heavy sedation. I loved him but was incredibly frightened by that. He died alone in a hospital. My mom was never notified until after his death. A K9 would’ve helped with his PTSD.

This organization is THE most organized I have ever worked with. The people in charge of the volunteers are incredible - kind and compassionate toward the warriors and the dogs. I can’t think of another nonprofit that makes more of a difference in the lives of both.

K9sFor Warriors is a life saving organization that I am extremely proud to be a part of. Raising puppies requires a lot of time , work and patience, but the end result is life changing.
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K9s for Warriors is the most worthwhile non-profit organization potential donors can consider supporting. It has saved the lives of over 600 former military men and women with PTSD and other psychological issues and hundreds of abandoned dogs who would otherwise been considered for euthanasia. The outstanding support through professional dog training and matching the dog with a needing Warrior has resulted in an extremely high suicide avoidance rate and has resulted in a win-win for Warriors and dogs. You will be even a better person by contributing to this totally worthwhile and important organization.

I have been a puppy raiser since 2016 and currently on puppy #6. K9’s puppy program has taught me how to raise these pups into becoming amazing battle buddies for our Warriors. There’s nothing like watching your puppy transform to a mature dog ready to serve….and watching him/her walk across the platform beside their warrior….knowing this 4 legged wonder has just saved a life, or even a marriage, just makes your heart swell. The story has now come full circle and it’s a beautiful thing! It’s why we do what we do! ❤️������

This non-profit is saving the precious lives of our servicemen and women. I always feel every minute of effort and money is well-utilized.

Helping veterans through their PTSD, preventing suicides and saving a rescue dog all at the same time!!! Does it get any better? I have been a volunteer for several years. They treat us with respect and always show their gratitude. I feel like I am part of the K9 family.

Excellent experience! Our experience with K9s started with my youngest son needing to complete a project for his civic’s class. As a family of veterans, we were so impressed with the mission of matching veterans with service dogs that my entire family got involved. From spreading awareness as community ambassadors to kennel enrichment duties, K9s is making a difference in the lives of service members. It has been a great opportunity to teach my children the importance of getting involved and giving back. K9s for Warriors is an amazing organization!

I have enjoyed volunteering for this organization for many years, helping in the kennels, working telethons, puppy-raising and in other areas of need. Every time I help, I get a peek into the different facets of their organization and get to interact with the passionate team. I cannot say enough about what an amazing thing they are doing for warriors and the dogs. Its a win/win and I'm proud to help and support them!

I have volunteered with K9s for Warriors for over 3 years now and if I could I would quit my job and devote all my time to them. Words cannot describe what they give back to a warrior’s life!

The best charity in the world. They keep veterans from commiting suicide by providing them with excellently trained rescued service dogs.

K9s For Warriors has a program unlike any other. All supplies & necessities are in place, ready for the veterans to come train with their new battle buddy. A truly unbelievable organization that's saving lives every day!

K9s for Warriors is a truly incredible organization saving lives by creating nurturing relationships for our service men and women. K9s program of training rescued dogs (from high kill shelters, I should add) to become service dogs for military men and women that have PTSD, TBI and MST demonstrates the transformational power of unconditional love humans are cap able of feeling for their canines and the love humans are able to receive from these dogs. Remarkably saving lives.

I've had the fortune of hearing several of the warriors speak about how this organization has literally saved their lives. Looking forward to watching their each grow in my community and throughout the US to help both military members and dogs in need.

What an amazing non profit organization! I have had the pleasure of learning how K9s For Warriors operate for the benefit of our heroic Veterans. This organization rescues shelter dogs and provides specialty training to aid and assist specific to Veterans needs. Such a life changing non profit, and I am proud to be a contributor in continuing this good mission.

K9s For Warriors makes a huge positive impact on veterans-in-need and dogs who need a second chance. They also have a great presence in their local community and constantly blaze trails to do more for our deserving veterans. They support and encourage smaller Service Dog organizations, enable research and policy work surrounding Service Dogs for PTSD, and work with other nonprofits that are working to prevent veteran suicide. One of my favorite things about the program is the way they support their graduates after they leave campus and go home with their new Service Dog. The graduates are provided with additional services and a loving support system for the rest of their lives, at no cost to them.

I am amazed with all the success K9s for warriors has with training rescued dogs to become service dogs. These service dogs then paired with military men and women that have PTSD, TBI and MST. No suicidal thoughts any more and they can actually function normally again! I have been volunteering for over 6 years, several days a week. I actually see first hand the value of this organization to our men and women.

I was a volunteer ambassador this past year and through my experience, I found a great appreciation for the work that K9s For Warriors does. So much so, that I applied for a position with the organization and am now a proud employee and ambassador.
I love coming here and having a small part in the life-changing impact K9s For Warriors has on both the Veterans and the dogs.

I have been involved, in various capacities, with K9s For Warriors since their inception. I have seen how they pinched pennies and used their financial donations to their best ability. They research and decide. Allot more diligent than I am with my own money for sure.

I do hope me writing this note with help you choose them for your much appreciated assistance. Your help will make them even more effective in the fight to save individuals, families and communities. They really are amazing...........and not one bit wasteful.

I attended an Orientation Session July 9th, 2015. From then on I knew that I found the right place to volunteer at. K9's for Warriors had just relocated to their new facility off Palm Valley Rd. Since that time I have met so many wonderful people who are dedicated to helping a Veteran be paired with a new best friend. The change the veteran goes thru once they team up with their K9 is absolutely amazing. Where else can you save 2 lives at one time?
Since starting at K9's my resume has grown to include part-time kennel staff, Ambassador helping to spread the mission of K9's for Warriors, and a Puppy Raiser helping to provide the next generation of service dogs for our warriors.

I value my freedom and cherish those that serve our country to protect the way we live. They do a job I was not willing to do, yet still am able to live the life I do. Many in doing that job suffered atrocities. I feel for them. How do they go on?

I am also an animal lover. I would have a million animals if I could! I stop in the street to pick up strays. I call animal protection companies when I see harm coming to animals or when an animal is in danger and need of help.

K9s For Warriors is a combination of the things in my life I cherish. I can support those who allow me to live the life I do and at the same time helping many shelter dogs find a job and a good life. I have supported this organization for a few years and will continue to do so. Bless this organization and all it serves!

As a volunteer I have been able to see first hand how amazing K9's for Warriors truly is. The accommodations are top notch, the care that goes into the dogs, the love, everything is beyond amazing. The service provided to our Warriors can't be beat.

I am proud to volunteer for a top notch agency!

K9s for Warriors saved the life of my Husband by placing him with an incredible and smart service dog. I'm forever in debt to them!!!!

I'm a wounded OIF vet that is going through the program in March 2017. I participated in July of 2016 and due to some personal issues was unable to complete the training. K9's invited me back this March to complete training with a new dog and has been so encouraging to my journey on getting my service dog for help with my ailments from war. This is an amazing organization that truly cares for their warriors!

I have been volunteering at k9s for warriors for several years and have watched them grow. This organization has to be one of the most rewarding programs I have ever known. Dogs who are abandoned, or abused are partnered with warriors who themselves have been wounded with PTSD, etc. Both of their lives are so enriched through this process. I thank God for being allowed to do a small part to help with this endeavor.
Tina Skipper

K9's for warriors is a very dedicated non profit organization that cares for all members of our military. I had the honor of receiving a service dog for PTSD from them. Before I went for training and bonding with my service dog I wasn't able to leave my home or go out in public with out having panic or anxiety attacks. After several months with my service dog she gave me confidence and courage to leave my home. I was so blessed to find this program and every team member there genuinely care about our well being. A wonderful organization.

Rescue dogs AND veterans. This is the best non-profit in Jacksonville. I just started volunteering, but I can already tell that this place is going to change everything when it comes to PTSD. I haven't got to work with the veterans, but the dogs are great!

My husband is a graduate of K9s For Warriors and the whole program has been amazing. The staff stayed in contact with my husband from day one and they always seem to be checking in on him or doing other services for him. We love our special k9 too!

Great place to volunteer! The new dog parks are amazing and the new kennel is spectacular. I have to say, it is a lot of work getting the dogs out there...especially the big ones, but it is SO worth it!

Saddened to read a negative comment aimed at ED of K9s For Warriors. This review was obviously written by a disgruntled employee. Having personal interactions with this outstanding organization on a professional level for two years and As a high ranking military officer, no need to defend this rant, it simply is a a malicious attempt to discredit a fine man and holds no credibility.

K9s for warriors only uses rescue dogs, and I think that is amazing. Too many dogs are euthanized all across America. This is a great solution!

This is a five star charity. They save lives, I know I am a volunteer and have seen the amazing work they do. From the top down they are a dedicated group of men and women with a mission of saving lives. Their dogs are rescued from shelters. The love , dedication, each and every employee in this organization is amazing. I have supported many non-profits in my life, none as true and honest as this one. Thanks K9, your volunteers are proud to lend our support.

I love volunteering with all of the dogs. It is hard work out there, but the dogs and the warriors are worth it!

They do such great work!!!! Love them all! Everyone at K9s is incredible and they all care so much about the warriors.

Incredible leadership and incredible program. Shari, Rory, and the entire team care so much about the warriors and the dogs. There is so much love from this organization.

Service dogs are becoming more and more popular as a way to help veterans cope with the intensity of PTSD. I was skeptical initially but after some loving coaxing by Shari Duval, the President of the organization, K9s for Warriors, I headed down to Ponte Vedra Beach in Florida to find out for myself.

I was paired with a service dog named Onyx and I can truly say that she was the impetus for change in my life. First of all, the experience itself was rewarding. I spent three weeks with four other women warriors who totally got me. We had a great time together and are still good friends to this day. The staff and volunteers at the organization showered us with love, appreciation, and respect. They validated our struggles with PTSD and helped us learn how to use a service dog to help us cope with day to day life.

Onyx pulled me out of a deep depression and has helped lower my anxiety significantly. The first year was a tough transition because I had ceased my veteran advocacy efforts and began to focus on me. Due to my military experience, I had a mindset that my life was dedicated to a mission. First it was the mission of the USAF, then it was the mission of changing laws so we could prevent military sexual assault. After Onyx, my mission became me. It was uncomfortable but necessary for one to truly heal.

I think the most important aspect of having a service dog was the day to day interaction. She kept me occupied because I now had to take care of her, she showered me with attention and love, she elicited feelings of joy and love that I hadn't felt in years, and lastly she made me feel safe. Because of her, I now had the strength to get back out there and become one with the world. She helped me take the next steps in healing because without her I was too fearful to even leave my home alone. I had grown to depend on my husband to accompany me and make me feel safer. That was hard on him and not good for me.

I have taken a lot of steps with Onyx. Although it is tough sometimes to have a service dog that draws the attention of a lot of people, the benefits far outweigh that aspect. Onyx gets me out of the house, helps me meet new people, and does exactly what she is supposed to do, make me feel safe while we are out and about. I can relax because she is scanning the room for me and making sure no one surprises me or gets too close. I've recognized that working on my social anxieties is much like working a muscle. You have to keep working on it to get stronger. It was much easier with a service dog.

I am the spouse of a k9s graduate, and I can honestly say having my husband and Vulcan home has made a big difference. I don't have to go EVERYWHERE with him anymore and we both have our freedoms back. Going into public I now feel I have my 2 kids to care for and not my husband like I did before. Both my husband and I have and will continue to recommend this AMAZING organization. I am thankful for this great organization for giving me my family back.

I was on a year waiting list for K9's and I had numerous interviews to get approved just to get on the list. It is an AWESOME program and my dog Vulcan has helped not only me, but my family as well seeing he brings the family closer together. I would put my life on the line for him. He is not just a dog, he is part of the family. He knows when his vest goes on its time to work. Whenever I've had problems with people or businesses since I've had him, K9's has been right by my side and helped every single time, and the volunteers to tremendous things to help you couldn't even imagine. If I won the lottery this non profit organization would get half of it or more. They have made my life worthwhile when I thought I was lost.

Before K9sforwarriors I was lost. I couldn't eat, sleep, I was scared to leave the house. I didn't even recognize my own face. Then k9sforwarriors gave me a new life.

I served in Iraq and Afghanistan while active duty. I came back and I was not the same man. After years of self medicating with alcohol I hit bottom and had to get help. K9's for Warriors was there for me when I needed them most. I have had my service dog for 2.5 years now. Because of this program, my life has completely changed. My family bond is stronger than ever, I am the leader of a local youth organization, and I am a full time student. I would have never thought about doing any of this before. The men and women of K9s for Warriors are lifesavers.

I honestly couldn't see myself the way I am today without the help of K9s for warriors!!! I was hit by a explosion in Iraq in 2005 and suffer from ptsd and tbi and before I got into K9s for warriors obviously I wasn't as stable as I wanted to be but with the help of freedom my service dog and after 2 yrs I've done things I'd never imagine myself doing after being locked in my own house for years never going out into public and now I have my CDL and drive over the road part time and I coach little league baseball during the summer and most of all I have a stable relationship with my daughters and new wife!!! I also don't use freedom near as much as I use to and I'm conquering so many things by myself!!! K9s for warriors also has a 100% success rate for vets that haven't committed suicide and that itself is a huge victory!!! Thanks to mom and the team at K9s for warriors for my new life!!!

As a graduate from this program, I recommend it to future participants. To begin the process for enrollment into this program:
-I had to do an application
- have at least three recommendations (from doctors/coworkers/people who have known you for a long time)
- phone interview (I had two)
- in person interview
- stay for three and one half weeks in the program under supervision while they train the dog to partner with you, observe you and how you react with and without your companion, and take the two of you to various local places/events to see how the partnership withstands stress related surroundings/triggers.

Once they thought the two of us bonded and was compatible they started working with us. If for any reason they thought one pet was not as compatible as they would like, they simply saved it for a different person in hopes to find a good grouping. (For those who don't know what I mean: some dogs bond better with some people, while others bond better with others. Everyone and every pet (companion) is different and has different personailties that they are compatible with). Although I have had many issues returning from my duty in them USMC including PTSD and TBI, I have gained confidence and learned better self control within large crowds, in which I would have anxiety and tend to have anger episodes or easily distressed within, since this program. The program was not made to cure any illnesses, but only to support healthy and beneficial reactions, support, and encouragement in which their program supplies as well as the companions they supply. Pets have been known to provide support and encouragement when some veterans/warriors feel that adapting to civilian life is impossible, they also are there when they (veterans/warriors) family or loved ones leave or simply do not know to comfort them after returning from war. Therefore, some of the stress is relieved within and outside of the home. (Again, it's impossible to believe every memory, illness, or issue will completely disappear..... I mean it has taken years to get where I'm at today and I still have a ways to go). I believe in this group, and have continued to help fellow warriors/veterans find their way here, and I cannot count how many of my guys who have went has called and said "You know man, you have helped me more than you could ever know by referring me to k9s." There is even a annual run in Albany Marine base, in Albany, GA to support local veterans/warriors to attend this program. It's a great place to learn, bond, and grow. I have and always will support, encourage, and spread the word about this organization.

-former graduate Torres (and "Ruey")

I watched a show on K9's, seeing how the Capt was before he received his dog. I was overwhelmed. It was like I was watching a show on me. The training is at no cost to the vet, and the dog you receive is well trained. I have had Skinner little over 7 months. She wakes me from nightmares, keeps me company, and is helping me get my life back. K9's for Warriors is a wonderful organization.

I am a retired SFC/E7 from the active Army, I served in OIF 1 ,3 and 5. I suffer from TBI and PTSD but as most Soldiers I was fine, well, so I thought anyway. On a beautiful day in 2009 I decided that I had enough of smelling burnt blood and gun powder in my mind and feeling alone and out of place. I decided that I was going to commit suicide. You see, a person doesn't ever plan on killing them selves it just hits you when you have had enough of this world. So noone can count on the famous phrase, Ill never hurt myself im strong. Well so was I, Long story short I had just enough edge to haul butt to mental health and surrender my self to someone who could help. I ended up finding k9s for warriors through a friend and got excepted. I found a knew life through this family, yes this organization is my family. They saved my life, I live in peace now with my partner Lilly, a 100 pound Mastiff Lab mix by my side with the confidence to do and be anything I want in my life. I'm here in the flesh and not on the wall as a memorial to a warrior who died alone thinking no one cared. I love you K9s for warriors with all my heart and you out there who supports them.

Kuchar rescued me 2 1/2 years ago. Now I am out and about doing stuff never thought about when I came back from Afghanistan. We have never been separated minutes in those years, to say she is my best friend is an understatement. She can read me before I can read myself. K9sforwarriors.org made this possible. They were more support before, during and after the process than I have ever seen in my life. I never would have guessed these people would have turned into part of my family.

This organization gave me my life back! I was fighting the need for help for years and finally I took a leap of faith and applied. I was accepted into the program and I was blessed with Liberty. He's brought me from being on edge and unable to be in public places to a point where I know he's got my six. Without K9s for Warrioirs, there's no telling how long it would have been before I was a statistic. I can't thank Shari and her wonderful staff enough. They are truly a blessing!

K9s saved my life. They are doing wonderful things for vets across the country. They gave me purpose and my best friend and Service Dog Dell. I am so thankful for them.

This organization in general and absolutely every single employee/volunteer have proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that they are committed to helping Military members and Veterans. They truly are a blessing. The support and care did not and has not ended once I graduated and my service dog, Shadow, went home with me. I get calls from instructors checking up on us. I can't say this enough, K9s for Warriors helps to save lives--lives of the dogs rescued and lives of the Veterans/Military members they so obviously love.

As a nonprofit, K9s for Warriors is tremendously successful from recruiting volunteers, to providing care and training for the wounded warriors and their service dogs, and managing such an phenomenal organization. It takes dedication to run an organization as efficiently as K9s for Warriors. Even better is the dogs that are rescued and retrained and re-socialized as service dogs for our wounded warriors that gave so much to this great country. I cannot overstate the amount of dedication, professionalism, and efficiency that this organization maintains. I am a Navy retiree and cannot think of a better cause for this nonprofit organization.

Working with the dogs, most of all, a is a service to our veterans. The organization also provides a wonderful service in providing such a high calling for the many rescues. The dogs are often adorable and funny, loving their time in the exercise yard. I am always so pleased when they are matched with a warrior. The organization is such a win-win in so many wonderful ways. I feel honored to be associated with K9s For Warriors.

I have been volunteering with K9s for Warriors for over 2 years now and I honestly can't think of a better organization to work with. They have the magic formula for success! They rescue dogs, who in turn, rescue these Warriors!! The organization ALWAYS puts the Warrior first!! And if, for whatever reason, the dog is not a suitable fit to be a service dog, they will make sure to find a home for this dog. Win-Win!! I'm very proud to be a volunteer with this organization and always walk away feeling an overwhelming sense of fulfillment.

My husband and I have been volunteering with K9s for Warriors since September 2014. I love everything about this awesome organization- what they do for our veterans to help get their lives back, what they do for all the rescue dogs by saving their lives from being in shelters, and what all they do to bring the two together- saving both the dogs' and the veterans' lives. I got accidentally injured once while volunteering and they were so sweet to check up on me to see how I was after. If a job ever came open with them, I would go work for them in a heartbeat! Love this group, volunteering with them is the highlight of my week!

When I lived in St. Augustine, I volunteered for this wonderful organization, K9's for Warriors. They use either donated puppies or Rescues. I would say 94 percent are rescues. They train these dogs to assist veterans who have PTSD or Traumatic Brain injuries. I was fortunate to befriend one of these veterans and these dogs give these veterans back their lives. Many of whom who couldn't leave their homes until they got a K9's for Warriors trained dog. This organization is giving our wounded warriors back their lives. Please support them. They provide miracles.

I have been a volunteer at K9's for Warriors for over 2 years and served in several capacities for them. I have first hand experience with their work to rescue dogs and transform them to become service dogs, saving most from certain death. I have seen the looks on the Warrior's faces when they first meet their dogs and I have witnessed the transformation come over the two as they worked together and bonded as a team. The dog and trainer wind up rescuing one another from a dark and uncertain future that either would have faced alone. Makes me proud to say that I am associated with such a great organization, watch the rescue/transformation process first hand and to see that donations are spent wisely and carefully.

Amazing organization that puts Veterans at the forefront of their existence. I've had the opportunity to interact with many Veteran support organizations over the last several years and not all of them do as much for Veterans as I have seen from K9s For Warriors. They do the most good for these deserving men and women with a minimal amount of resources and I could only imagine how many other lives and families they could help with more support. Truly an amazing group of dedicated people doing wonderful work for Veterans, their families and the northeast Florida community.

I cannot say enough about the blessing and opportunity I have been given to serve those who have given so much to serve us! I first learned of K9s for Warriors when the announcement came that they would move their location into our town (Nocatee) just about a year ago. From my first inquiry regarding volunteering, to-date I can honestly say I have never been so proud to be even a smallest part of such a wonderful organization! Not only in assisting with the Dogs, my first passion and love but to be able to pair that with be any part of their finding their forever home with both active troops and veterans whose very life may be saved with pairing of a service dog, is truly priceless. I am overwhelmed at the thankfulness and support of the staff and other volunteers, let alone the warriors who come to be trained with their dogs whether it be to assist in the kennels to take the dogs out for a potty break, bringing a home-cooked meal, or fostering a dog or pup all efforts have been greeted with the up-most support from staff and other volunteers and unbelieveable appreciation from all!

Couldn't think of a better organization to give my time and energy to. Saving our heroes with canine heroes -- what a concept!

A great organization doing wonderful work on multiple fronts. Not only do they take rescue animals primarily from shelters and train them to have a purpose, they pair these animals with military veterans who have been diagnosed with PTSD. The people, employees and volunteers are all great and I enjoy every minute I spend volunteering to such a great cause.

I have been volunteering at K9s for Warriors for a little over a year. I was recently retired from the dog business. When I heard about this group, I was so attracted to it for 3 big reasons. (1) I can get my dog fix. (2) I have such a deep respect for our men and women in uniform and I can do something to help this very worthwhile organization. I believe that our government just doesn’t do enough. (3) I have experienced PTSD after there was a shooting in my office. I know how I suffered for about a year, but what I felt isn’t even close as what I can imagine our warriors are feeling. I don’t know how they survive with such a debilitating condition. Many do not. I can’t imagine doing anything else in a volunteer capacity that I would rather do. K9s for Warriors ROCKS!!!

As a volunteer, who suffers from PTSD, I have seen the difference this organization makes in the lives of fellow veterans. Not only do they help the veteran regain his or her life, they rescue dogs that would most likely be euthanized. Hours are spent socializing and training the dogs, and then weeks to adapt the veteran to their new companion. All of this is free to yhe veteran who served our country.

K9s is wonderful to work with. They are joyful, dedicated and purposeful in achieving their mission and they are changing lives, for veterans, families and those who volunteer.

I don't know of another Veteran's organization that has done was K9s has. In short, MANY lives have been saved. I'm in the dog industry and my small company makes a small donation every month to K9s. We talk about this organization at every opportunity and can't think of a better place to give back. May GOB bless all of the Warriors who come to K9s to reclaim their lives, and all of the volunteers who make this organization a reality! This Marine mom gives K9s FOUR Paws Up and a big OOH RAH!

Three words..... SAVED MY LIFE. This program has already saved nearly 200 warriors and canines. That's lives made worth living again. We can be 'normal', we can be a loving spouse and parent. My girls have their mother again. All of this because of the new leash on life we have been given by K9s for Warriors.

I became aware of K9 for Warriors when my daughter's high school Interact Club began raising funds to sponsor a service dog. They came to the school to speak the club members and we learned about them and what they do for veterans and also how they adopt dogs from shelters. So essentially they're saving two lives!! My younger daughter is now in Interact and they are on their way to sponsoring a third service dog. I can't say enough about this great organization.

I am retired Army and have been involved as a Veteran advocate both professionally and voluntarily for over 40-years.
This group is beyond anything I could have ever imagined. It is a program that saves (2) lives- the rescue dog, and the Warrior. Shari and her team are the best, they truly care about all they do, day-in-day-out. I have witnessed first-hand the change in numerous Warriors affect since they became a part of K9s program. In addition I have seen loving dogs that were doomed to die in a matter of days, look at you with a serious love and mission in their eyes. They now have a purpose, it's their turn to save the life of the Warrior they were chosen to be with.
If you are a patriot and a dog lover, you need to get involved in any way you can.
God Bless the K9 staff.

My daughter was looking for community service for high school and I ran into this organization on my quest to find something she would not only get service hours for, but would also enjoy doing. Since she's not yet 18 years old I'm required to volunteer with her so I can see first hand what a fabulous organization K9s for Warrior is. We've been volunteering since February 2014. We were just there today working a 2 hour shift playing with the dogs. My daughter also signed up to provide today's meal for the warriors so we brought that along with us.

The organization provides a wonderful service for our brave military men and women and also for the dogs they rescue. It's exceptionally well run and I'm looking forward to their expansion into a new facility in the next 6 months. This is an organization that's doing great work and need all the support they can get from their community and beyond.

I read about this organization in the newspaper. I had been looking to volunteer somewhere and since I am a vet and a dog owner for many years, it seemed like a good fit. And it has definitely been that! I am a relatively new volunteer as a Kennel Assistant with 8 volunteer assignments completed to date. All of the staff and volunteers I have met are friendly ,dedicated and competent; it is a joy to work with and for them. And, of course the dogs are a blast to attend especially knowing they are being trained to help a warrior in need. My feelings were best crystallized last week when I attended the graduation of the most recent class of warriors with their new service dogs. I recognized and knew the names of all the service dogs because they were among the ones I had attended! What a flood of emotions I experienced to remember my contact with them during their training to qualify to be matched as a service dog with a warrior. And now, here they were proudly alongside their warrior. I was elated, joyful, and felt a sense of pride that in a small way I helped in that process. It just doesn't get any better than that as a volunteer.

I have an additional comment about the organization and staff. In my experience in the military and civilian workforce I have seldom witnessed a more professional, dedicated well organized operation.
I wish them continued success in their expansion plans and hope to remain part of it

I as a recipient of a wonderful K9 from K9s for Warriors. Having the training onsight at their facility was a major plus. It allowed me time to bond with my dog. They are very helpful and a great Org. Having Maverick has helped me not to think of war. I can channel; my thoughts on him. His needs and he keeps me occupied. With out K9s for Warriors. I wouldnt have this new lease on life. Thank you K9s and Mom. Matt, Brett, Danique, Ross, thank you all

I first heard of K9 for Warriors when they visited my place of work over a year ago. Since that time, my company has added K9 for Warriors as a place that employees may donate their volunteer time to. So I did and what an awesome experience. I can't say enough good things about the people that spend countless hours making this a suceess. I enjoyed meeting everyone and most of all playing with the dogs. Many of these are rescued from various organizations and will go on to make such a difference in a warriors life. It's like saving two lives at one time. I have only good things to say about this place and have told many people about my experience.

I began volunteering with K9s for Warriors in May 2013. I was immediately taken back by the respect and consideration that everyone involved with organization has for each other. There is a great feeling of being part of team and as a team having a common goal and that goal is helping our warriors. K9s uses 95 percent rescue dogs and I fully believe that some of these rescue dogs know that they have been given a second chance. Some of the dogs have been physically abused, but when they come to K9s, they seem to know that they are in a good place, and everybody there is going to take good care of them, and eventually they are going to have a job. A very important job, and they are eager to be the best they can be for their warrior. It is just a win win for everybody.

I retired from the Air Force after 30 years. I deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan 7 times. After retirement, my memories of war caused me severe depression, aggregation, and extreme difficulty adjusting to the civilian war, including getting along with my family. After a PTSD and TBI diagnosis, multiple visits to personal and family counseling, my wife turned to a PTSD service dog. K9's For Warriors was not only a life saver, but a family saver. I met Justice (my PTSD service dog) shortly after arriving at K9's For Warriors. We have been together ever since. The training Justice and I experienced together was second to none. The accommodations provided to us were well beyond my expectations, the hundreds of volunteers are priceless, the staff showed professionalism, empathy, and really made me feel welcome. I know my everyday struggles without my service dog were intense and debilitating. I wasn't really sure I would ever be able to live another way until K9's For Warriors embraced me and blessed me with my service dog, Justice! THANK YOU K9'S FOR WARRIORS!! Not only from the bottom of my heart, but from my wife, children, and whole family!!

I have been a volunteer with the K9 for Warriors program for over a year. What a positive difference these wonderful dogs make in a warriors life. I love spending time with the dogs and getting to know each and everyone of their individual personalities. We were fortunate enough to be able to adopt Honor, a former K9 for Warrior dog, and he has brought so much love and joy into our lives.
It is a fantastic program that is a win-win for everyone involved.

K-9 for Warriors is run by an amazing group of people who are making a difference for so many.
As a volunteer I am in see each time I arrive at the location to care for the dogs.
The program is so well run, with focus and detail on the a Warriors they will help as
Well as the dogs in the program. I am honored to be part of such am amazing
Organization that is so focused on helping the amazing service men and women who have
Given so much for our country.

These people literally do nothing but care. They are far more than a service dog program. It was almost like three weeks of therapy for me. I am a combat veteran with two deployments to Afghanistan. For the past few years I was on a road to self destruction. I found out about K9's on the internet and filled out an application immediately. I did not wait long at all, because there was a drop out and I was scheduled for a class before I even knew it. The staff is amazing. I loved every second I was there and did not want to leave. All of the instructors are extremely proficient and patient. 5 stars is not nearly enough of a rating for this organization.

K9's for Warriors literally changes lives, and not just for our wonderful Warriors or our precious K9's. I began volunteering as a kennel assistant after reading an article in the JAX local newspaper. I thought it sounded like a great 'marriage' of two groups that I care about tremendously and who, so many times, do not get the care and help that they so richly deserve. Therefore, I expected to become a part of something worthwhile and to enjoy being a part of it.

What I did not expect was to be so profoundly touched to my very core by the storied of our dogs and our Warriors. Hearing the stories of our Warriors and their families and all they've been through on behalf of our country is extremely humbling. Reading the background cards on our rescue dogs and trying to rationalize that this amazing dog that I'm helping to care for was rescued, shivering and afraid, on the side of I95 or starving and tied on a three foot rope and unable to reach her new litter of puppies is absolutely heartbreaking. I shake my head and it hurts my heart to see how they have all been (sometimes literally) forgotten or thrown away.

But then they get to our facility and the magic begins. We see both the dogs and the Warriors slowly begin to heal, gain confidence and slowly move toward a future of love, hope and freedom. Sometimes it's a slow process, sometimes it happens quickly. But it DOES happen and we who volunteer are so blessed to be a part of this miracle. While we all have our problems and challenges in life, it's impossible not to step back and put them in perspective in light of the heroic struggles that we see being overcome right in front of us. And everyone I come in contact with at K9's, from volunteers to staff to the trainers feels exactly the same way. This organization is so much more than just a volunteer opportunity or, for some, a job. It's a calling and a blessing and I thank God every day for our Warriors, our dogs and for the opportunity to be a part of it all.

I have been volunteering now for 2 years and I love it. What a great way to help Veterans and Dogs. I'm a single father of 2 teenaged boys so my time is limited. But I feel every time I go there I am making a difference.

We have been blessed to foster a K9 puppy that was donated to the program by a breeder. It is an absolute joy to be involved with raising him and sending him on to help a soldier. Everyone enjoys getting to meet him.

God love a dog and the companionship they provide to our Warriors, I have been involved with K9 for a little over a year, and see first hand the rewards. I lost a nephew to suicide after returning from Iraq. I consider my service to k9 as a way to honor his service and all those that have succumbed to PTSD. I urge everyone to attend a graduation and see first hand how these friends of man compliment our military folks. I and my wife are now both part of the program, and the pleasure of interacting with the different personalities and traits of these K9's. Always a pleasure.

I am a close personal friend of K9's for warriors and Shari and Bobby Duval. I have been involved with the k( program when there were maybe 20 volunteers and now there are over 600 local volunteers that help in so many ways. The Not for profit utilizes almost all the monies raised to go back to the people the donations were targeted to; the warriors. I have taken some of the guys on my boat fishing and got to know them personally. It's such an amazing program knowing where these hero's were and where they are a short time after getting their service dog. K9's has changed so many lives for the positive. I am proud to be allowed to be a part.

Regards,
Jim Coffey

K9s for Warriors is an awesome program that rescues four-legged and two-legged heros! I love being able to give back to the greatest citizens of our nation through K9s for Warriors. It's a first-class organization from top to bottom. Get involved! You will not regret it.

Our group, the NEFL Scottish Highland .games chose this wonderful place as our chosen charity for the last three years. We have attended several warrior graduations and had tours of their facility. Meeting the warriors and hearing their stories is so uplifting. We actually have one of the warrior graduates now participating in our group. Seeing the transformation of him over the last 2 years has been a joy. He attends our meetings with his canine and participates in our activities. We will continue to support them and the work they do. Not only do they help the warriors, but they use rescued dogs as well. Quite an experience to see all the workers and volunteers who have such big hearts and help these men and women return to a more normal life. I especially appreciate that there is no cost to the warriors at all.

My husband returned home from Afghanistan and retired after 30 years in the Army. Feeling a bit alone and useless, he needed to feel like he is making a difference as he did in Afghanistan. Volunteering at K9's for Warriors fulfills that for him and so much more for us both. I don't miss a graduation as you can see your favorite dogs make a difference in a well deserving Warriors life. K9's does so much more that may never be seen at the dog house, in the kennels, backyard or graduations. Our hearts are so fulfilled for just knowing them. As the t-shirt says and is very, very true, the volunteers at K9's for warriors are "LAB TESTED AND WARRIOR APPROVED"!!

Hard to put into words what K9 for Warriors has become to me. For each of us it becomes something different. My story begins with my work place asking us to find somewhere to spend one day a year. I found K9, only I couldn’t find a shift there that was an entire day that met my work’s requirements for hours. However, I went anyways. There was something about K9 for Warriors and I had to know more. You see there is magic about this place. I assist with letting the dogs out in the kennels and playing with them in the back yard. They are just as healing to us as volunteers as they will become to the Warriors. Bad day at work? It’s going to be ok, because I know it’s my day to go work a few hours out with the dogs at K9. We go there and they give unconditional love. I also cook for the Warriors 1-3 times a week while they are receiving training with their new service dogs. To watch these Warriors truly transform is something that amazes me every class. I love working with the dogs in the kennels getting to know each of them as well. As I tuck each pup back in their kennels after their time in the yard I say a quick prayer, “may you train and be a good pup, cause your Warrior is coming soon.” Then a new class of Warriors come and a new class of dogs get paired and the magic starts again. See, we volunteer our time here…. But there is something way more we get back. It’s mostly though because those we give to, have already served us.

My youngest child just moved away to college and I was looking for a great organization I could donate my newly found free time to. I knew K9s was what I was looking for after I reviewed the extensive volunteer application and the professionalism of the staff. They do everything top notch with the utmost respect for their dogs, the volunteers and most importantly, the veterans. When you volunteer with this organization, they truly treat you as a member of their family. And the service they provide for no cost to veterans across the country is unparalleled. I did not serve in the military but I am truly thankful for what our military forces have done for us. I work at a company that focuses on hiring veterans and had the opportunity to work with a veteran with PTSD. I never realized how debilitating this can be. This was a very intelligent and hard working employee who had to leave us after a few months due to terrible migraines and stress, which he never had before his time in the military. The more I learned abot PTSD, the more I wanted to help. This organization provides an awesome way to give back. A bonus is getting to playing with big dogs that are well trained and fun to be around. I highly recommend this organization to anyone in the area. Volunteer, you will not be disappointed.

I graduated over two years ago from K9 For Warriors. K9 gave me a new leash on life and the means to live everyday with the help of my service dog Slider and help take the burden off my family. If it was not for them I would not be living today. K9 is not like other organizations or like our government where they serve you and then forget you. They (K9) keep in constant contact with me to see how I and Slider are doing. I owe them a huge debt of gratitude and thank them everyday for what they do.

I am humbled by the greatness of this organization! I am proud to be able to volunteer and play with the dogs, knowing that they will all be placed in the loving arms of a warrior. this organization changes lives!!!

I had the very sad experience of having to put my beloved Ruby to sleep on December 12, 2013. I was searching for a way to combine my love of dogs with a program that does good and from a selfish standpoint relief myself of the loss that I felt over Ruby. I was very luck to find K9s for warriors and have been volunteering about 8-9 times a month. The work that they do, the stories that I have heard and the success stories that I have heard about and seen make me very proud of this fantastic organization.
The volunteering has been a blessing for me in many ways and I can only hope that the little that I can give in my time in some way pays the program back for the happiness they have given me and the happiness they have brought in my life. Having 10 to 15 canines to play with and interact with allowed me to adopt a dog myself from a rescue, which I do not think I could have done without the interaction with the K9 staff. Thanks and God bless

My husband has PTSD from the Vietnam War. Had this wonderful group been available 45 years ago, his life would have been so much easier. To recognize the relationship between a suffering person & the companion that can ease their way in the world is a gift to these men & women returning from the terror of war! At the same time they save the life of a wonderful animal whose main goal in life is to give love! I don't believe there is any better definition of a 'win win' situation. Thank you K9s for Warriors!

Learned about org thru a TV program. Immediately went to website. Was impressed with their work. As a psych nurse understand the value of animals, esp dogs The idea of taking shelter
Dogs and training them for vets too awesome
We found a new charity to support Have recommended
. to friends.

As a recent graduate of this program ran by this blessing of an organization, I have utmost respect for these guys and gals. I am recommending this organization to every Veteran I know who might be in need of their assistance. I also am raising awareness about their organization to potential sponsors as well as those who are in a position to direct more traffic their way. They do their best to get warriors into the program who seriously need the help as quickly and efficiently as they can. They don't just get the Veterans into the program and send them on their way, but keep in touch with them. They ensure you are doing good with your dog, help you with issues unseen during training, and help you with resources. If anyone gives you trouble and you can't settle it peacefully they will have your back. If it ends up being a legal issue they will even lend the veteran their own attorneys to defend you in the name if justice. I recommend K9s for Warriors to every vet struggling with PTSD, TBI. I noticed the first changes within the first two weeks if training and I know I will continue to see improvements..

I'm a graduate from K9s for Warriors and I am thankful for them every single day. The services they offer have changed my life for the better and every single day I am reminded about that am thankful. All I can say is Thank you for changing my life!

I happened to be at a traffic light one day and noticed the van in front of me had "K-9s For Warriors" on it. I knew the organization must have something to do with my two favorite things in life - Veterans and K-9s. I couldn't wait to get home and research this organization. That day changed my life forever. Through K-9s For Warriors, a veteran suffering from PTSD or TBI is paired with a rescued shelter dog and train together for 3 weeks. During that 3 weeks, dog and warrior learn to depend on each other and navigate the world again. The bond and the friendship is undeniable. I am lucky enough to be a small part of this organization by preparing homemade meals for these wonderful warriors during their stay.

I was accepted into K-9's For Warriors program in August of 2013. I can't begin to say enough good things about this program. Not only do they provide a free service to veterans, they bring you into their family and stay in touch long afterwards. My life has changed ten fold for the better since I was trained with my service dog and I have stopped most of the medications the VA shove's down your throat in order to get you to just go home an lay around. I can honestly say I owe my life to K-9's For Warriors.

Where would I be right now. Before K9 for warriors my life was in darkness daily. Coped up in my house all day everyday. I can enjoy life and my family now because of the gift you have giving me. Thank you.

K9s for Warriors was a life saver for my husband and our entire family. After many unsuccessful attempts to get help for his PTSD and TBI, I researched the idea of getting him a service dog. He was open to the idea, so he applied. Upon meeting Shari Duval and her staff, I knew we had taken the right path. My husband was placed with his service dog in June of 2012. From that day forward, we have seen much improvement in his ability to function in society on a day to say basis. While this success has not been without trials and tribulations, I can honestly say that K9s for Warriors has always been there to support him and indirectly myself. I have been lucky enough to also volunteer during events with K9s for Warriors and have never seen anything but the utmost professionalism and care for our wounded warriors both in the program and not yet involved. Please support this amazing organization and the work that they are doing for our nation's wounded warriors.

I'm about to begin my third year of volunteering for this organization, and everything I wrote in my reviews in 2012 and 2013 holds true today in 2014. This is a growing organization and they are now in a position to serve and save even more veterans, and save more dogs, yet they maintain their personal touch and service. Highly recommended for volunteers, for donors, and for veterans suffering from PTSD who will benefit from the liberating support and love of a service dog.

I absolutely love K9s For Warriors, they have given my life back. I am able to go to my kids sport practices and games and I can go out with my family. My family is so thankful for this organization we do not know how to thank them.

K9sForWarriors is my home. We are a family. I have a place to go for support when I always felt lost in the past. They are the best organization for service dogs, and from my personal experience, I would discourage a veteran from going anywhere else for help. I am so happy with the pairing of dog to warrior, they really have a knack for matching our personalities. It is hard work, healing, but don't give up and life is so much better--life of the dog and the warrior are both rescued!

I retired from the Navy after 23 years of active service, and was looking for a way to stay in touch with service people, particularly those with special needs. K9s for Warriors is an amazing organization that really makes a difference in the lives of service members with PTSD or TBI's. They run a top-notch program that pairs donated, trained service dogs with service members to help acclimate them back into society. I volunteer as a "dog exercise/play person". We work 2-hour shifts, letting the dogs out to run or get brushed, or sometimes just to love on them before they get assigned to a Warrior.
K9s squeezes the most benefit out of each donated dollar. I am proud to be a part of this caring, very worth-while organization!

My husband is a graduate of their K9 program. What can I say- other than THANK YOU. After many troubling years we were unsure where to turn or how to deal with the issues of PTS and TBI. Medication isn't always the answer and we were desperate. We stumbled on the organization through a friend of mine who was scheduled to attend their class. My husband applied and was accepted in the program. It has been a year now and he has gone through so many incredible changes. I am so grateful for everything they have done for us. He is returning to his former self and has reduced and mostly stopped taking many of the medications he was on.
K9s for Warriors is the BEST. Everyone cares so deeply at this organization and are so personable and dedicated to making a difference. Bravo Zulu and keep up the good work. We are forever indebted to K9s.
A grateful Wife

Acosta Sales & Marketing voted to have K9S for Warriors as our Charity of the Month, June '14. Everyone that I came in contact with via phone, email or in person...were the most passionate, caring people I have had the pleasure of dealing with. They brought a Warrior and his companion to our office and answered questions tirelessly for a few hours. The respect that I share with so any others for this organization, can't be measured. I knew Vets who came back from Viet Nam in the 70's who truly would have benefited from this amazing pairing, of a Warrior to a dog, who becomes one with him.

I have signed up to the "Kasseroles for Kanines" program where I will prepare meals for the Warriors...tailored to your best time frame and the needs of our Warriors in training. Hopefully, in the future I can volunteer to work with the dogs which would be so fulfilling.

Once you read their stories of success, you will only want to do more!

I have been volunteering with K9's for Warriors for 1 year. I have been in numerous volunteer organizations and activities, but this is the first organization where I see my efforts directly impact those who need it most. I assist with kennel dogs, cook meals for the warriors, donate to the organization and help with fundraising efforts. Our veterans are no longer nameless faces returning to the U.S. I make a point of meeting each of the veterans and experiencing their successes with their service dogs. It is such an honor and privilege to serve them and I can only thank K9's for Warriors for this opportunity.

We found this organization locally by chance, seeing a volunteer with a K9 at a local event. Didn't realize their facility was 10 miles away from us, and in the process of building 4 miles from our home.

We have been volunteering as frequently as we can and love the organization. The mission is great. The utilization of rescued dogs and turning them into service animals is very admirable, and of course the fact that they are becoming a service animal for a veteran is even better.

We love the organization, the people and especially the opportunity to spend time with the dogs and hopefully helping fulfill their mission.

Shari Duval, founder and President has made this program into a family for Veterans who live with PTSD and TBI. The program has a 3 primary pillars of support; (1) New life is given to shelter dogs, 95% of the service dogs trained are rescued from shelters, giving a second chance at life for the dog and his/her warrior. (2) Service Dogs, each veteran is given a fully trained service dog at no cost as well as a 3 week stay in a home, all meals provided, again at no cost. (3) K9s Apprentice Trainer Program, graduates can learn to be trainers and come back and work at K9s for Warriors, this portion of the program has given purpose back to my life since after my medical retirement I not only lost a job as a Marine, but my identity. Cooper is my 2yr old yellow lab. We have been through so much together and he has stood by my side without fail. Before Coop I hid in my workshop or sat on my couch watching Netflix too afraid to go outside because of my PTSD. Coop and I have been a team for a year now and so far we hiked 900 miles of the Appalachian Trail, traveled to and from Florida twice, been on TV, and are now planning a through hike for other graduates of the program to help reintegrate them as well. Without Shari (Mom as she is referred toby her Warriors) and K9s for Warriors I would not be here today, they have given me my pride, peace, and confidence back and most of all they saved my life and I am forever in their debt. Thank you K9s. Thanks Mom!

This is organization is like no other. It brings 2 resources (combat warriors and rescue dogs) and blends them to one with very little administrative costs.

Broken warriors arrive to the organization with a small flame to survive, they want better and when they leave their flame is a bon-fire full of life, determination and lots of smiles ready to face the day to day. The transition is amazing and we thank you K9s for Warriors for helping our heroes become a survivor.

My son-in-law and his family have been blessed with receiving a dog named Axel from K9 for Warriors. He served 3 deployments 2 in Iraq , 1 in Afghanistan. He returned a very empty young man and wanted nothing to do with life. He wanted to just remain isolated from his wife and 3 beautiful kids. He was diagnosed with acute PTSD/TBI and has been medically discharged. He was able to cope with his disability, retirement from the Marines and becoming Dad and Husband again all with the help of Axel. The isolation ended when he returned home to Virginia with his remarkable new friend and guardian Axel.

The light returned to his eyes and he smiled more and was calmer. This organization saved his life....he will never be the man he was which is tragic. PTSD /TBI have robbed him of that. The addition of Axel has kept him going and has given him some of his life back.

Our vets deserve this kind of help. Please support K9 for Warriors and the miraculous work that they do. Miracles do happen if you believe they will....I believe that Axel was my family's miracle.

I can't say enough good things about this organization. I'm an Iraq war vet with severe combat ptsd and through this amazing organization I got my life back AND no longer have to take all the medications I used to that just made me feel like a zombie all day. K9s for Warriors changed my life and I'm forever grateful!!!

I have been following this organization for quite a few months. The work they do with these wonderful dogs to get them prepared for helping our veterans is inspiring. I volunteer at a nearby shelter and find the work very rewarding and hopefully in the near future I will become involved with K9s For Warriors. Any support that you can give them would be appreciated.

I heard about K9’s For Warriors via a friend. I have met a couple of their graduates and spoken with a few others. The impact this organization has had on their lives is amazing! They are able to get back to living again. This group saves both the Warriors and the dogs, what more could you ask for? They go so far above and beyond and truly have a passion for what they do. They don’t just give them a dog and send them on their way, they house them, feed them, counsel them, train the teams and I truly believe they love each and every Warrior they serve. Top notch all the way!!

K-9s For Warriors shares its inspiring stories on Facebook daily. Pairing dogs rescued from high kill shelters with veterans living with PTSD after serving our country is one of the highest callings in rescue. The stories about our amazing veterans bonding and recovering with otherwise cast-away dogs inspire me to keep on putting one foot in front of the other. The model is sustainable and scale-able. Thank you K9s For Warriors for saving so many lives.

Im a US Army Veteran of Iraq/Afghanistan with Severe PTSD. I found K9's For Warriors to be the most giving , high quality, first class charity I have ever experienced. I am now paired with my Service Dog Rocky and he is my Fur-ever friend and assistant for my medical needs and helps me on a daily basis. I owe my life to K9sForWarriors. Thank you Please support this Outstanding organization. Help them save lives!
JR Blanford
US Army/160th SOAR

I am on the outside watching as it rescues dogs and returning military. It pairs dogs and heroes and changes the lives of both. K9's for Warriors deserves all the support it can get.

2012 was a very challenging year for me and my family, we had seen my symptoms progress more so than most years, and when my wife heard about K9s For Warriors, she had urged me to sign-up. I said, i'd think about because I didn't think my PTSd was all that bad. I put in my application mid-year 2012 and went through the interview process, not really knowing what I was getting myself into. The trainer- Brett called me and offered me a slot in April of 2013, I accepted, thinking that I may just back out. In August of last year, I hit another rock bottom in my life, having started my own business and an organization to assist other veterans dealing with hardships involving PTSd, was too much to handle on top of raising three boys and my wife going to nursing school. In October, I was contacted by Brett to see if I could make it out for the next class that started in a few days, and I knew it was the right time. I drove over 900 miles from Texas to Florida to start my life over and actually get the help I needed and deserved. I received Ozzy, my SD almost a year ago. Having Ozzy, as well as K9s training and support has transformed my life and that of my service animal. Since November, we have been able to get out and do more together and now that I have learned, not only from training but doing, we have conquered many goals together. We are currently slated to run the Houston Marathon in January, if our health, especially Ozzy, is great. Mom, and K9s for Warriors helped me beat my PTSd to enjoy my family and my life again. As of this morning, in writing this review, my psychologist at the VA moved my plan from Treatment of my PTSd to Recovery and no longer needing medications or assistance with my battle of PTSd. Thank you K9s For Warriors for making this possible!

Great organization. They change my life and my service dog it been turn around in mi life after my military career. I thank k9 for warrior for bless me in my life gbu

I have been diagnosed with combat PTSD from serving in OIF/OEF. The wonderful people at K9s for Warriors took me in with open arms and gave me a second chance at life. My service dog helps me do things that I thought I could never do again because my fear of crowds and fear of leaving my house. The K9s for Warriors family is so supportive and is always available.

This sight is full of information for both a service dog handler team military friends and families, and the general public. I was extremely pleased to find this site... as a disabled Vet with a service fog, Lilly, it is nice to find a place where I feel known! Thumbs & Paws Up!

I happen to be a wounded soldier, was shot in the head and blown up a few times. If it weren't for this organization and what they do for us, I would be in a really bad place in my life. Before meeting them, Brett, Todd and the "Boss" Shari, my family were basically shut off from the world because of me. I never left the house unless for Dr appointments. The house is always locked up, blinds closed in darkness. Not only did they save me, I believe they saved my marriage. I am here at the Wounded Warrior Battalion in Ft Benning, they have helped others that are here as well. If it wasn't for them I would probably be one of the "accidental death" statistics. I and my family truly feel they are Family. Thank you K9s for Warriors for everything you do. I would gladly fight the good fight with you. Love and miss you guys. God bless, never quit, and continue to never leave a comrade behind.

I am President of K9s For Warriors. In 15 months we have served 41 Warriors. Some are Veterans, some are active duty. All are heroes and have served in combat duty. Our Warriors all have in common suffering from post traumatic stress. They want and need help, and do not want to be medicated to resolve their nightmares, panic attacks, blackouts, anxiety, depression, isolation. Service canines, properly trained, are a profound alternative for recovery from PTSD. We have been honored to serve these brave men and women that have given this Country so much. There is no charge for our service, it is our duty, honor and privilege. For three weeks our warriors live at our facility where they train and learn to renter civilian life again with dignity and independence. We are a small charity doing huge work, and making a difference. Our Men and Women of our Military fought for our tomorrows, we fight for theirs. Respectfully, Shari Duval. www.k9sforwarriors.org

K9 For Warriors is an excellent organization that provides well trained, amazing companions for those that served our country well. They are filled with amazing people, terrific animals, and have a good heart.

This is an amazing organization. I have been working with them for an entire year. Their passion and energy for their mission is unmatched. Every month they tirelessly match 3 or 4 service personnel suffering from PTSD with a specially trained dog - often rescued from a shelter. With a lot of hard work, a lot of love, and a good sense of humor the healing takes hold. The soldiers train on-site for 3 weeks and are well taken care of by "Mom" Shari, her staff , family, and her incredible volunteers. Graduates are constantly reporting back how much their lives are changed.

K9s for Warriors help our returning soldiers deal with PTSD. The organization trains and pairs the dogs with our soldiers, then provides more team training for them so they can get on with their civilian life. I think this is a very valuable organization & it seems the least we can do for our warriors and their families that have already given so much.

My husband received a Service Dog from this organization earlier this year. It changed our lives! I feel that I have him back. We are able to go places together. His sleep, while still interrupted, is calmed by the Service Dog (he wakes him from nightmares). He has even been helped with some physical issues such as stairs and getting out of chairs etc. The fact that this organization does this at NO COST to the Warrior, just from a need to help, is absolutely amazing! I can't even begin to thank them for all they have done for us. Add an amazing team of staff, trainers and volunteers - and you have a winning organization!

This organization gave me and my family our lives back. Very professional and very well organization. They are always striving to improve and to help our veterans. They are not a fire and forget weapon. They continue to keep up with you even after you have completed your training. Terrific people and fabulous organization.

My cousin received a service dog from this amazing program and it has literally turned his life around. What wonderful work these people do for our veterans with PTSD. Such caring and kind people who truly make a difference every day!

K9's for warriors is great to have your life back is the best in the world. When my dog was trained I was able to go out and do things again. I was wounded in Iraq Physcial and mental. Was so happy This place takes time and works with every veteran and every dog. God Bless K9's for warriors..

me and my husband were there in March of 2012. I knew that when i got there the would be nice, but the excided that. The trainers were great and very helpful with questions. They always mad sure we were comfurtable and happy. they also made sure if we had any problems that they were taken care of... Thanks to Them my husband is going better. Thank you

K9s for Warriors is a program designed to help returning veterans with PTSD problems. The dogs and veterans are paired up and go through training together so that mutual trust is reached and a sense of calm when things are falling apart can be gained. This program allows the men and women of our nation to stop hiding behind four walls and be able to be apart of the wonderful country they put their lives on the line to protect, so that other people would not have to. So that others may sleep peacefully in their beds and not have to worry if their way of commuting to work is going to expode on them.

My son, a Captain in the Marine Corp, recently graduated from K9's for Warriors. This opportunity has been a life saver. I can see a dramatic improvement...physically and mentally, in my son. His new companion is Axle. The training at K9's is exceptional, with compassionate and knowledgable staff. I personally consider this group to have been an answer to my prayers.

K9 For Warriors greatly impacted my wife's life. Missi and Chauncey are doing great. Their interaction in public has had a positive result in educating people on service animals and removing some of the stigmas people wrongly make. Thank you for your service and dedication.

My husband is a Captain in the US Navy Reserves and has served 8 tours post 9/11 including 3 tours in Iraq, GITMO & Africa. He received a purple heart for the injuries he suffered in an IED explosion in Iraq. His service dog, Rocco has helped by husband regain his life. I will always be grateful to Shari Duval & her team for founding the K9s For Warriors' program. Our Nation's heroes deserve the very best and that is what K9s For Warriors is. They provide their services at NO COST to the troops & veterans they serve. They help families get their "warriors" back again. God Bless the K9s For Warriors program. I believed so strongly in what they are doing I left a private sector job to become The Director of Development at K9s For Warriors. It is the greatest honor of my life to be a small part of the program helping our nation's heroes recover from war.