INCREDIBLE ORGANIZATION doing LIFE-CHANGING WORK for individuals and families with disabilities in Virginia. We cannot say enough positive things about Service Dogs of Virginia and how they have benefited our family. We received an autism service dog for my son five years ago. The SDV staff treated us with respect and empathy from the very beginning. They listened to our story and our challenges and identified ways in which a service dog could help. Every step of the way, we felt supported. The staff and trainers are courteous and professional and care so much about the well-being of their client/dog teams. They have celebrated every milestone alongside us!
This organization is so professionally run--transfer camp training and ongoing certifications are conducted efficiently, on time, and properly. They do things right, and by the book, so their clients feel secure in handling their dogs to ADA standards. They care so much about facilitating strong handler/dog teams and their impact on the quality of life. They have such a passion for the disability community and making a difference for individuals and families. Most importantly, their staff are exceptional humans who care so deeply about their work.
We are so grateful to be one of the families that have benefitted from this organization. Our service dog is truly an angel--it is hard to put into words the impact he has made. It has indeed been a game-changer and one of the best decisions we have ever made!
Review from Guidestar
Service Dogs of Virginia (SDV) is an outstanding organization. I am a mental health professional, and have a Facility Dog placed with me. Josie, my facility dog, is exceptionally well trained and has a positive impact on people every day. I have had abundantly positive experiences with SDV. From the very moment I applied for a dog, they considered my needs and the wellfare of the dog. They are rigorous, as they want to ensure "goodness of fit". Being placed with a dog is a big undertaking, but SDV has supported me the whole way through the process....in fact, they continue to support me and Josie with ongoing consultation. The entire staff, board, and volunteers I interact with have wanted to see me and Josie be successful. The organization takes great care to breed, train, place, and support exceptional dogs who are placed for 1 of 5 different jobs. This is no small undertaking, and it's always clear to me that great consideration and care is taken. I'm very grateful to SDV for their incredible work and support their continued mission. Thanks so much SDV!!!!!!
Review from Guidestar
Took my money. Conducted numerous interviews. Made me travel from DC to Charlottesville. Invaded my home and inspected. Told me to spend money to make changes. One week later, denied me a dog.
These people are a strip-mall operation and have absolutely no competence with PTSD service animals. Be prepared to be disappointed.
I received a real PTSD service dog from Warrior Canine Connection in Maryland, a competent training center and Veterans Administration partner.