Our Paws for Peace service dog program matches homeless dogs with veterans living with PTSD and traumatic brain injury. Most of the dogs we work with are hand-selected by the Paws for Peace team from shelters and rescue organizations and paired with their veterans. In the event that the veteran has their own canine companion, we are happy to evaluate them as potential PTSD service dogs.
In this unique program, the pair train together enriching both lives, while building peer relationships with others in the training class.
There is no cost to the veteran, thanks to the generosity of our donors and partnerships within our community.
Click here to download the U.S. Department of Justice FAQ about Service Animals and the ADA.
How it Works
- Submit application
- Send supporting documents: DD214 & service provider referral letter
- Interview
- Home visit
- Orientation
- Participation in a veteran-led dog training program – three-tier training approach, 16 weeks to include: basic training, Canine Good Citizen, and public access.
- Graduation
- Refresher classes available for any alumni
Classes are personalized for the needs of the veterans and instructed by volunteer Paws for Peace veteran alumni under the guidance of a professional dog trainer. Each class will progress together, through 16 weekly meetings held in Brunswick, Maine and surrounding communities.
Paws for Peace Graduates
Todd and Maple, U.S. Navy
Meet more Paws for Peace Graduates
Terri and Ranger, U.S. Navy
Meet more Paws for Peace Graduates
George and Lucky, U.S. Navy
Meet more Paws for Peace Graduates