When I started classes, I was anxious and not sure I could do it. I know I can tend to doubt myself. But whenever I got discouraged and thought about quitting my Godparents Janice & Duane – who attended all the classes with me – pushed back and insisted “You can do this!”

There were a few very memorable moments in our training journey. One was when I saw trainer James and his service dog Elsa demonstrating how exercises were to be done. That inspired me. Another was later on; I could see that Lilly had become a completely different dog! Looking up, paid attention to me, and wanted to do the exercises and do them well to receive her treats and my praise. Also, the fact that SD4V was a newly found brotherhood, actually a family for me, was particularly important. The trainers always worked alongside us, patiently, not just telling us how to do things, but showing us. That constant positive support “made me want to give it my all”. I taught Lilly to do tasks Front, Center, Block, and Cover – all make me feel more secure and help to establish my personal space in public.

Lilly and I are already doing sightseeing like touring the Biltmore House and Gardens. We have other tours planned and I intend to go back for agility training to build our confidence. These are things I could only have imagined doing prior to training. In addition, I plan to become a Veteran Advocate by participating in monthly graduate meetups and being with a class all the way through their training

In the beginning, I had my doubts about whether I could complete what I’d started. And honestly, I’m still a little surprised and proud of myself that Lilly and I not only finished, but we did so well and enjoyed it all. Also important is that I learned a lot about myself. I feel like I’ve grown a lot over these past 8 months.

Bill, Cassidy, and James along with my God-parents supported me throughout the training. I believe anything about the program should change. They should just keep doing what they’re doing. I tell others “Do the SD4V program, Training your ‘sidekick’ forces you to get out and participate in, and enjoy life again!”

Clearly, the key to success is being consistent and doing lots of repetitions. That along with training with intent, and following the SD4V curriculum, gave us the training approach we needed to grow as a team. I never doubted my dog’s ability. I was confident that together, we could do it. Once Ace received his Service Dog In Training vest, that made all the difference. He seemed to know he was working. Even before graduating, that spurred us on to start going out and doing things as a family again.

I’ve trained Ace to perform tasks: Cover, Front, and Center. With Cover, Ace watches my back, and both Cover and Front create spatial barriers which define my personal space. Center gives me comfort when Ace touches me and gives me “Eyes”. Because of Ace’s loyalty, attentiveness, and skills, I’m now better able to deal with the daily challenges I have. The things I’m now able to do with my family are what I have been wanting to do, like going shopping with Melissa and our daughter. The time and effort was definitely worth it.

Although I have not reduced my medication as yet, they are more effective now than they had been. I look forward to attending graduations of my fellow classmates as well as participating in monthly graduate meetups, and events such as the car shows. These are all in my plan for the future.

Bill, Cassidy, and James gave me 100% support, and their ongoing communication meant “I never left the class feeling defeated or confused”. To anyone considering the program, I would say do it, regardless of whether or not you’ve previously had a dog. “In addition to providing comforting companionship, having Ace as my service dog is like having an attentive medical device by my side”.

The biggest difference between other programs that train the dog and then turn it over to the Veteran is that by training the dog yourself, a much stronger relationship between the two of you is developed. Later you can continue with that training because you now know how to do it.

When my dog Sam earned her In-Training vest after completing Beginner & Intermediate levels, that clearly brought about a great positive change in her. She seemed to understand right away that the vest meant ‘it’s time to get to work’! She had a greater focus on me, sought my approval more, and showed greater appreciation when I praised her. I also saw that the physical contact of rubbing her ears she liked, and it helped ground me.

I taught Sam to do tasks Front, Center, and Cover for me. I put her in the Front or Center position when checking out at a store because it lets me know where she is and that she’s safe. It comforts me when I feel her leaning on me. Cover is important when I need her to create personal space for me.

Although the process was not always easy, it was absolutely worth the effort. My wife, the trainers, and classmates provided needed support. Before SD4V training I avoided crowded environments and all stores. But now I can go to those places because I don’t feel alone and worry about my surroundings quite as much with Sam by my side. Something I’m really looking forward to – my wife and I have purchased a travel trailer and we’re looking forward to meeting new people as we travel around the country.

I look forward to joining the monthly SD4V meetups with other graduates and am already recommending the program to other Veterans.

I found the experience to be amazing because my dog had dramatically changed since we graduated the first time in August 2019. It was great for both of us. I’m in a better place mentally and I think Peppy is happier this time through because of that. The refresher training is just what we both needed. At the new SD4V Training Center, the other dogs were more settled and focused which helped me to be in control while training with Peppy.

When in public, I’m even more relaxed now. Peppy accompanies me everywhere and keeps me calm. It’s reassuring that she can do her ADA tasks of Front, Push and Hugs whenever she senses that I need grounding. And due to the new friends I’ve made with classmates, my social life has improved and am much more active. Oh, and another change is that she sleeps with me now, in her favorite spot in my bed right next to me.

Based on my experience going through the training program twice, I truly believe that continued training is the only way to keep up the dog’s skills. It has certainly improved my life with Peppy. I encourage any graduate to not hesitate in considering a refresher training.

Initially, I was a bit anxious because my Weimaraner dog Baron was young, but we had a breakthrough moment when he began to catch on to the progressions and we started working as a team. Although I still have anxious moments, I’m more confident. We’ve come a long way and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved as a team. The time, effort, and drive it took made it all worthwhile and I would do it all over again.

Through the training, I taught Baron to perform tasks Center, Cover, Push, Front, and Touch. Each one has a specific purpose but overall they all remind me that I am never alone; I have a partner. “It’s a comfort thing.”

The biggest surprise for me was how involved and supportive the entire organization is and how much time and investment is put into it by the trainers. I could always ask questions and know that I would get the answers that I needed. The training timeline gave us the time we needed to learn.

SD4V definitely has done a great job for us. The trainers and volunteers demonstrated that they genuinely cared not only about the program but also about helping the Veterans understand the reasons for the training steps. And now that I know how to do it, I want to continue training Baron.

There has been a positive impact on my family. Baron is always ready to go and although he is a beloved pet to my children, they understand that sometimes Baron is working with their dad. I can now be the dad I want to be for those young children and enjoy outdoor experiences with them.

My quality of life is now so much better. No doubt about it, my decision to train Baron as my Service Dog in the SD4V program has been the best decision of my life. I plan to be involved and attend events regardless of the travel time required and I will no longer limit myself because I can now “step out of my box”.

Seeing the progress that I and my 1-1/2 year old rescue Lab mix dog Heimdallr were making with the other teams in our class, was rewarding. I knew coming into the program that time and effort would be required, but we both loved it, and the homework we did definitely paid off. I credit my wife for her amazing support throughout training. It was not always easy for her, but she made sacrifices to attend classes with me and support me in every other way. The staff was also very supportive, and I appreciate all that was done to help us succeed. “I now feel unstoppable” and prepared to deal with whatever comes my way. No longer will I be taking on challenges by myself, now I have a loyal teammate by my side.

Heimdallr is first and foremost my companion. He’s learned ADA Tasks Front, Cover, and Center. These help ground me, allowing me to focus. Being in a crowded environment can be overwhelming, but feeling him against my leg in one of his Task positions is effective in keeping me calm.

The biggest surprise was learning how many volunteers are involved in SD4V’s program behind the scenes. I have high praise for the program and overall feel that I was well prepared for graduation. My long-term goal is to return to college to pursue a degree in microbiology with a more immediate goal of just getting out of the house. Previously I was reluctant to do so and now that has all changed – I’m looking forward to it!

I am interested in attending the monthly graduate meetups in my area and hope to participate in public events scheduled for the coming months. I will encourage those who ask to give thought to undertaking this most rewarding experience but caution them that it requires commitment not only to the dog but to the program “that will enable them to live life again”

After my discharge, Service Dogs for Veterans was recommended to me by my VA therapist.  When I was accepted into the program my reaction was 50/50; I was both excited and anxious. I knew it would help me, but I was reluctant to be in public. Although during the training program there were times when I was uncertain, I hung in there because I’m not a quitter. The fact I was surrounded by other Veterans was truly helpful throughout.

Bill suggested ways to bring the best out in my Doberman, named Wednesday, and that was a game changer. Other Veterans in the class were supportive and James was especially so. He would say, “It’s a process; trust the process.” The fact I knew I could always reach out to him as needed for suggestions or support was positive.

I now am ready to enjoy life again. Having learned the ADA challenge response, I know I can take Wednesday with me wherever I want to go. I trained her to perform these  ADA tasks: Cover which is a security measure with her facing backward watching my 6:00. Center is important in an environment like a store because she moves with me, and I can feel her making me feel protected. Snuggle which shows affection, natural behavior for Dobies.

I was surprised to discover that what I had been the most anxious about didn’t exist. I had anticipated a military environment, knowing that Bill and James are both Veterans, however, that concern was quickly eliminated when I met them both.

Just knowing that Wednesday and I can go anywhere together is exciting. I’m interested in researching history so with Wednesday as a Service Dog, we can go together to historical sites like cemeteries for my continued research. I’m glad I’ve been able to make changes to my medications that enable me to sleep much better.

The program is great the way it is, and to anyone considering it I would say, “You will never feel alone.”

Upon learning I was accepted into the program I was both excited and concerned; excited because I was at a point in my life where I knew I needed something more to help me with my daily struggles, and concerned because the idea of an eight-month program seemed daunting.

When asked what advice I would give to another Veteran, in a nutshell, I would say, “It may change your life. It may save your life.”

I didn’t have a dog, so I relied on the expertise of SD4V to find the right rescue dog for me. And they didn’t disappoint. Bernie was just what I needed, the perfect dog for me.
Although I did not look forward to driving from Burnsville, North Carolina to the SD4V training center in South Carolina – a 2-hour drive one way – I did look forward to the classes. Typically arriving early, I would unwind for a bit by walking around and talking with Bernie. She’s a great listener. The support and encouragement I received all the way through from the trainers plus Veteran Advocate Joanne and her service dog Charlie was appreciated. In addition, any time I called or texted James, he immediately responded to offer his help and support. I am especially thankful for his generosity in sharing his own experiences and wisdom. The camaraderie and encouragement from other Veterans in my classes were something hard to describe and also played an important role.

In spite of a setback for me during training, the time and effort put in making it more than worthwhile, and Bernie was always there to help me. Just seeing the improvements through training that she and I have accomplished is a major reward. That success was confirmed while I was using the hand dryer in a men’s room that sounded like a jet engine blast and she remained relaxed.

Bernie has learned tasks Cover, Block, Front, and Center (both facing forward and backward). These positions create barriers from strangers and crowds reducing my anxiety. The Center position with physical contact from her on both of my legs is especially important when I get stressed because it grounds me. It would be oversimplifying to say that just knowing she is there comforts me, but in addition to her touch she often checks in on me with her eyes. The training helped her develop that habit, so now when she senses I’m getting stressed, Bernie looks up and initiates one of her tasks without me asking her to.

The biggest surprise for me has been the generosity of the couple who sponsored my training scholarship, especially considering that they had not met me until the day we graduated. The entire SD4V organization made the program seamless, and I now believe I have reached a point where I can speak with my doctor about reducing the meds I currently take.

Looking back, I admit I may have been too hard on myself at the start.

James and Jessica were extremely supportive providing an immediate response whenever I called with a question. I actually wished there had been more classes held each week and believe it was worth every minute. With Carter by my side, I am ready to have a normal life and go out more, even take her with me to the gym. She helps with anxiety because when I see how calm she is, it makes me think I can be that way too.

I have trained Carter to perform tasks ‘Front’, and ‘Push.’ Leaning against me with the physical touch, which is important to calm me. Also, Cover which means she’s watching my back. And Center which also helps with anxiety not only because of her touch but the fact that she’s watching me.

Because I was fully informed about what to expect I was happy to discover there were no surprises. I gained new friends and learned that all the Veterans in training had doubts in the beginning but we all have learned that just doing the program works. Given my initial self-doubt, I started seeing success during the Puppy class, however, the real transition happened in Public Access.

Already I have stopped some of the medication I took and my wife and I are planning to go to Disney World in the spring. Because I love to cook, the long-range plan is to have a food truck. With those goals to look forward to, I say to SD4V, “just keep on doing what you’re doing.”

Then I was assured by Meg at SD4V that SD4V had no issue with that, realizing that the Veteran may already have a significant investment in their dog. So, it was a relief to learn I was accepted into SD4V’s training program.

Although class location meant I would need to drive four hours round trip from my home in Georgia, it was well worth the effort and commitment. SD4V gave me hope I was looking for to get me and my dog ADA compliant.  It provided structure for my dog to learn and me to become his teacher, while motivating me to get out of the house instead of being a couch potato.  The Intermediate and Advanced classes were memorable due to the number of skills we learned and the training approach that Vader and I developed working as a team. Public Access training was a remarkable surprise because Vader did so well focusing on me and not the crowds, especially considering some of it took place at a busy Walmart location.

I’m so proud of how far Vader has come because of this program.  The Tasks Center and Back Center are a huge help in relieving my anxiety and giving me comfort when I most need it in public and especially in crowds. The support I received all along, especially from James, was definitely key to our success.

Now I am beginning to reduce the medications I take as I look forward to doing more fishing and camping with comfort and confidence. To all Veterans needing help I say “do it” as they will find the whole process to be rewarding.

OBB provided some initial training and was instrumental in finding SD4V near my new home in SC. I was hoping for a turnkey program where others did the training.

But in hindsight, I’m really glad that SD4V trained me to be Doc’s trainer!

Thinking I did not want to make training mistakes early on, I was nervous at first. However, the SD4V class material was easy to grasp and apply. At the intermediate level, I sensed that Doc and I were really beginning to function as a team – our bond deepened and that made all the difference to me and was very satisfying.

One of the most significant outcomes for me is how the training has helped my patience and ability to focus, which in turn helps my memory issues. Previously, my “normal” was a reluctance to go out and be around people. My “new normal” is an expanded life allowing me to do anything and go anywhere which carries over to all aspects of my life. You could say the program was about more than just training Doc but training me as well.

Before we graduated as a team, when something for me was scheduled, I would come to dread the event. But not so with the training schedule as I looked forward to classes and Doc enjoyed them too. He’s an actor, holding up a paw as if hurt when he doesn’t want to do something or wants attention. But when he knew he was going to class, he got excited and forgot his act. So, life has changed for us both for the better. Another bonus has been that I’m able to reduce medications and am in the process of coming off one of them altogether.

Doc has learned a few Tasks like ‘Cover’ where he sits beside me looking behind me. This relaxes me and allows me to live in the moment because I’m confident he’s watching my 6. ‘Front’ is a Task that has two effects: it keeps people from getting too close and provides physical support if I need it. ‘Snuggle’ is another Task that’s important during times when I get elevated and anxious because it helps ground and comfort me.

The support from my wife at home and the trainers in class was beyond what I had expected. This allowed me to look forward to classes. The classes were actually fun! You could say the program was great therapy for me – expanding my life in almost every way. Now I can be more social, do things, and go places I wasn’t able to before. I would certainly highly recommend SD4V to any veteran needing a service dog.

To that, I say, “If you’re just thinking about it, then you’re not ready. You’ll know when you’re ready.”

I knew I wanted a Doberman and having been familiar with his lineage prior to choosing Samson made him a deliberate choice for me. The new SD4V training center is for Veterans only, with far fewer people in a spacious training environment.

Although I’m glad the daily homework sessions are behind us, I’m happy to have the connections I made with the trainers and other Veterans. Just the experience of having a mission and completing it has been important and the camaraderie we developed is special.

Now, since graduation, Samson and I have stepped over the line and have a different kind of bond making the effort required well worth the commitment. Flexibility I experienced with Jessica and James during times when medical issues conflicted with participation was a level of support that “carried me aloft”. I was not only allowed to reschedule classes but make up the ones I had missed which was appreciated. Their compassion for allowing that flexibility came as an unexpected surprise.

Samson has been trained to perform Front, Center, and Snuggle. When he’s in the Front position I know where he is, and Snuggle is great for reducing stress. I never had to teach him to take the Cover position because he does that automatically.

With the security Samson provides I hope to travel to Utah to visit my father and my medications are now stable.

Having previously done some obedience training with my golden retriever, I was delighted to learn new techniques and especially appreciated the fact that I would be the one training my dog. That alone was very gratifying. Trainers and Jessica and James were fabulous. I received 100% support not only from them but from other Veterans who were in training along with me. In other words, it was Vets supporting Vets and they not only gave support but even suggested ideas to each other. Teamwork!

Each task I taught Gracy such as Cuddle, Front, and Cover is important. Cuddle calms me, Front lets me know where she is, and Cover makes me feel secure because I’m confident she’s watching my back. The training was done step by step so there really were no surprises and when asked whether it was worth the time and effort, all I could think to say was, ”Oh, you bet!”

For me, an important result since graduating has been to make significant reductions in the medications I had needed before. The first activity for me will be a new experience as Gracy and I will be going to the beach. I also am looking forward to going back to help other Veterans in training and perhaps even getting additional training for myself. I would like to teach Gracy to pick up something I need from the floor and bring it to me.

So, to any veteran who is having a problem and is thinking a service dog might help, I say, “Go for it and know the best part of it is being able to train your own dog.”

“SD4V’s service dog training program is a lot of hard work, and totally worth it!”

She was excited to learn she had been accepted into the SD4V program and says having Stella in her life has helped more than she could have ever hoped.

Important tasks for Tiffany & Stella include “Block”, “Cover”, “Hug” and “Front”. For this team, these commands are especially important in navigating crowded spaces. Additionally, Stella’s presence is a constant source of comfort allowing Tiffany to calm down and refocus.

Tiffany has had the opportunity to experience the many changes in the SD4V program made possible by the addition of the new training facility. She found the new training opportunities to be very beneficial, making a great program even better. Today, Tiffany has been able to reduce her medication and venture out much more than ever before. In the future, she hopes to serve as a volunteer at SD4V.

In fact, it was crucial as I had several surgeries scheduled during my training.

After the death of my service dog Moe, I reapplied for the SD4V training program with my new rescue dog T’Chala. I was happy to find that being my second time going through the training program I had more patience and could focus better. It also pleases me to help another dog who in turn will help me.

T’Chala has learned tasks Back and Cover which are important in public because I do not like to have people getting too close to me. She also does Snuggle and Up when I get elevated. Her physical contact grounds and comforts me when I need it.

Since graduation, a positive result is that I can go out more and do things with my family again. And the medication I take has been reduced as has the number of visits I need at the VA.

In the Service Dogs for Veterans program you, the Veteran, are trained to train the dog which is unlike most other programs. I really like that approach. Also, the camaraderie of classmates gives a clear sense that you are not alone. To anyone wondering about applying, I say “COME ON !”

In 2018 I met Bill Brightman and learned about the SD4V program. At that time, I was not considering it for myself. But then I got my dog Echo as a puppy and the breeder highly recommended training since she was bred to be a service dog. Suddenly I realized the opportunity for training with SD4V was perfect for us. As a disciplined, trained military man, having been a Navy SEAL, I welcomed such a structured program.

Echo has been trained to perform Center, Back, and Up. She often goes into the Center position so I know where she is, and Back so she can watch my 6:00 in a crowded environment. The Up position is like a cuddle and good for us both. She was built for this kind of training and easily picked up on things and responded. It was exciting to see her attitude and eagerness to learn.

Our accomplishment as a team enables us to go anywhere and do anything. I feel empowered now with her as my buddy. It doesn’t take much imagination to understand how much easier moving about in a crowd is with Echo considering that we went to Walmart two days before Christmas. Enough said!

Just having the confidence to go places is wonderful and Echo definitely wants to be out and about. My plan is to do more for other veterans, perhaps show them the skills and bond that the two of us have developed. However, I will caution them that the program does require work, but I never felt overwhelmed and certainly appreciated the proactive approach offered. There was no set timeline, no arbitrary schedule and I was able to progress at my own pace. To any veteran who is isolated, I say “You can do something positive about it”.

During a Vietnam Vets memorial service, I met Steve Hartington and Gary Grzelecki, both Veterans and graduates of the SD4V training program. My wife and I had recently lost our beloved dog and talked about getting another. With Steve and Gary’s encouragement, I researched the program and spoke with Bill Brightman about what the program entailed. At that point, I was still unsure what it could do for me, but I knew I needed help and went ahead and joined.  Then Jacquie Myers, a Marine veteran, SD4V graduate, and dog procurement specialist introduced me to a dog named Yogi at the Greenville Humane Society.  Meeting and connecting with Yogi plus the encouragement that Jacque gave me, was just what I needed to give the program a try.

There was a time during training when I was really discouraged with my lack of progress and ready to quit and give Yogi back to SD4V.  Jessica came to our home, talked with me for an hour, and persuaded me to continue. She even laid out the progression exercise guides used in class in my garage and helped with training in my home. Her being there for me and encouraging me were what I needed.

Our training went well from that point. I remember a special moment when Yogi learned the command “Place” which sends him to his bed to remain there where he can be safe. I also taught Yogi the tasks Up, Cover, and Center. Up comforts me quickly when I’m anxious, Cover has Yogi turned with his eyes on my 6:00, and Center keeps Yogi safe between my legs and keeps strangers away. A special way Yogi instinctively likes to show his support is by laying his head on my lap as soon as he senses my anxiety.

Steve Hartington and Gary Grzelecki were always there encouraging and coaching me.  At one point Bill Brightman invited me to step outside during a training session where he instructed me to be the trainer that my strong-willed Belgian shepherd Xena needed me to be, and to hold to the training standards we both had learned. That gave me the incentive and confidence I needed at the time to keep moving forward with training.

Xena has learned tasks like Front, Center, and Block which are important because I like my personal space and she makes that possible. The Belgian breed can look somewhat intimidating to people so that helps because she keeps them from approaching me. Often she will keep her paw on my foot which comforts both of us.

I credit the direction I received to help me understand how I would need to work with Xena, and once my mindset on that was clear we were able to move through the well-structured program relatively quickly. As a result of our success, I’ve been able to change some of the medications I take.

The impact on my children and wife makes me “ecstatic”. We recently enjoyed a relaxing time at the beach and before Xena and training, that wouldn’t have been possible because I always had to be watchful. “Now, I can relax and enjoy my family out in public; with Xena, I have a second pair of eyes.” I look forward to getting out more with my children.

I’m thankful for Jessica and James for their continued support and have advised a few Veteran friends considering the program to do it; just reach out.

Comparing the SD4V training to that which I had experienced with my previous service dog, Jacque described it as much better in every way, and she especially likes the fact that rescue dogs are a part of the program. Zelda was adopted from the Greenville Humane Society.

Jacque served our country for nearly 25 years, retiring from the US Army as an E7, Sergeant First Class. Her specialty was Mobile Electronic Warfare Systems. In that capacity, she built communications systems from electronic schematics, acquired and installed the communication systems needed for combat, and then took responsibility for the maintenance and repair of these systems. Deployments included Central America, Bosnia, Macedonia, Kosovo, Iraq, Somalia, Saudi Arabia, and Afghanistan.

Shadow has been trained to perform Push and Hugs which give me something to focus on, taking my mind off my surroundings. With the task Cover, she lets me know if someone is behind me and Center lets me know where she is.

Having been referred to Service dogs by Tracy at Dog Trainers Workshop, I was relieved to be accepted and realized that my wild dog Shadow would finally receive the training she needed.

The support we received during training, especially during tough times, encouraged me and kept me going and I’m thankful for everyone’s support. In addition to the trainers and volunteers, my parents were with me every step of the way, so it was a collective effort.

As we advanced through classes I was surprised how the progression of lessons proved that training was a building process culminating in desired behaviors.

Eliminating one medication and cutting back on the dose of another is a positive outcome due to my partnership with Shadow. And now I can spend extended time out in places rather than quick trips such as I was compelled to do before. I advise anyone considering the program to not take that commitment lightly and to make the effort to fully understand what is required before beginning. Having a trained service dog is a 24/7 responsibility. Shadow gives me a reason to get up in the morning and be active with her throughout the day.

NOTE: Dave and Crash are the first graduate team from Georgia, and not only that, they had a perfect attendance record!

My dog Crash was fostered by Marine Veteran and SD4V graduate Jacquie Myers and her family prior to Crash & I starting training, so I was concerned he would be too attached to them to bond with me. But the first time they all visited me and Crash, Crash greeted them enthusiastically but when I called him and he came right to me, I knew our connection was real and we had a bond to build upon.

Although the training program was eight months, I was amazed at how quickly those months passed. From the beginning, the trainers and volunteers gave their full support, and the camaraderie of having all veterans in the classes was great

Crash has been trained to perform many tasks “Cover”, is important because he watches what is behind providing a sense of safety. “Front” when he and I are in a crowded environment. When in that position his large size offers me protection plus I know where he is so have no worries about him. At home, we enjoy “Hugs”.

Because of Crash, I’ve reduced the number of drugs I take and for the time being, have minimized the quantity of one.

Now, as a graduated team, I look to the future and continue training so Crash can become a therapy dog. I want him to be a walking testimony that shows others how SD4V and a Service Dog can change lives. We visit with other PTSD Veterans in my area within the local group Meeting of Battle Buddies (MOBB). The Veterans Field Service officer provides referrals so I can contact those Veterans and show them why “They need to do it; it’s life-changing.”

The biggest surprise for me was the breadth of the program and the level of experience evident among the trainers.  Seeing what some of the Service Dog graduate teams were capable of was very helpful as we moved through training.

At any given moment I could reach out in any direction to receive support from Bill or Jim, the trainers, or other Veterans and the camaraderie that developed with other Veterans was memorable.  Another surprise was to witness the large number of volunteers involved who were there to help me and others during classes.  Any struggles I had to deal with were of my own making but the push to work through each was well worth the effort.

Lason has learned a number of tasks: Push, Reverse Cover, Center, Stand, Cover, Front, and Block, all of which allow me to function in public.  That support from Lason makes him “my walking therapy”.

 As a graduated team, I now have a new lease on life.  Previously prescribed medications have been reduced by 75%, merely one among many positive results since graduating.  Lason accompanies me to worship services at my church and I now willingly go into public places with crowds, something I seldom did prior to SD4V.  I fully intend to continue training Lason, expanding with Dock Diving and agility training as new objectives.

To those investigating helpful opportunities, I say, “Make sure that your need is real, that you can fully commit to the program and the time training requires.

Lason and I are clear proof of what can be achieved.

It was exciting to learn we were accepted into the program, and I knew it would just be the beginning. The collective effort made by Veterans in class together with the trainers was great support. They did whatever was needed to aid our success throughout training sessions.

Now that we have graduated as a team, training experiences have rolled into place and our developed bond will continue to grow. Certainly, there were moments when she had to un-learn and re-learn things, but now as her trainer I can fix problems and there is no limit to what we can learn together!

Medications that I once took have been cut in half now that Daisy is not just a medical aid but my medicine, a part of me like an appendage. She’s my best friend, always there to support me and picking up on those times when I need a hug. Learned tasks – Up, Push, Cover, Center, Front – help her instinct kick in when she senses she needs to calm me. Sometimes it’s just as simple as her giving me ‘Eyes’ to let me know she cares.

Supportive efforts by all were great and I credit Jim and Bill for willingly taking my call whenever I had questions. They provided suggestions or sent videos and photos that clarified issues and helped me through. Their encouragement pushed me to be the best I could be and because of their confidence, I became determined not to let obstacles defeat Daisy or me.

To Veterans needing help, I say “Just do it! The training and bond are things you cannot imagine until you take this training. If you have the opportunity, do it.”

With all that experience you would think I might have a great deal of confidence, however, when first I began the SD4V program, I questioned whether I would be able to accomplish the training.

A friend had recently been given a fully trained Service Dog from another organization and initially I thought it didn’t seem fair that I’d have to put in all the work going through training alongside my 7-month-old Australian Shepherd named Bee Gee. But that journey proved to be more than just about training. It was also the emotional connection between Bee Gee and me that developed, and that benefit was as important to me as the skills I taught Bee Gee.

Although I was apprehensive much of the time at first, at the same time I knew I had never been a quitter and did not intend to start now. Once I saw how the trainer and volunteers made it work, I began to view classes as an incredibly special time, almost sacred. Encouragement given by everyone helped me through any moments of self-doubt, repeatedly proving they were completely confident that Bee Gee and I could succeed.

Having always had an anti-drug attitude, I have not had to deal with those issues. However, my tendency in the past had been not to acknowledge that I was angry or upset, or able to recognize my anxiety ramping up. Now, I stop and think about what I am feeling because Bee Gee makes it possible as my ”early warning system” to catch it at the onset by alerting with one of her tasks.

As the weekly host for a group of 15 to 20 combat Veterans at my farm, Bee Gee has become an instrumental part of the group. She always recognizes who’s in need of special comfort. She instinctively seeks them out, then rests her head in their lap! She has become a great asset to this group of “brothers”. Now I hope for an opportunity for SD4V graduated teams to have a reunion at my farm as well.

One important difference between my experience and that of my friend who received the trained dog: SD4V has taught me to be a skilled handler/trainer. If ever Bee Gee had a problem with a training exercise, it was because of my “operator error”. Trainer skill is an important benefit that paid off for me as I taught Bee Gee a variation of the task “Up”. I call it “Head Down” and it calms me. She’s learned “Center” which lets me know where she is and that she’s in tune with me. Also “Up” and “Snuggle” which help ground me.

There can be no doubt the training is a journey and not a quick fix, requiring a firm commitment and the desire to stick with it to the finish. Anyone involved must trust the process but without equivocation I say it’s most definitely worth the effort if you don’t give up!

Although in the beginning of dog training I was anxious and nervous, I knew I really needed the SD4V program.  It most definitely has been worth the effort it took, and I am thrilled with an overwhelming sense of joy in my accomplishment and relief now that we have graduated.

I adopted my dog Zoey from Greenville County Animal Care. What Zoey and I have accomplished is so much it is almost hard to believe. Throughout the training classes there was always someone there to motivate me and provide extra help when I had concerns or to inspire me to keep trying.  The other Veterans became good friends and showed me that I too could accomplish the training goals.  Going in I did not realize the dedication it would take but Zoey is now a completely different dog than she was when we first started, and I love the change in her and me!

My family and friends are amazed at what Zoey does as a trained Service Dog. She has learned ADA tasks of Center, Front, and Hugs which are important tasks because they comfort me whenever I am anxious. The “Front” position assures me that Zoey is safe in addition to making me feel protected.  The security and comfort given while having her with me allowed me to be in public places without panic attacks, and as we neared the end of training in Public Access classes, I have able to reduce the number of medications I had been needing.

“The SD4V program changes lives” so anyone considering signing up should know it is worth the time and effort.The SD4V team have become family to me, and I am looking forward to getting out and doing more than ever before because of them and Zoey.

After Bill explained the SD4V program’s process and the accomplishments I could expect, I felt the structure would give me the trust and confidence I’d been looking for. Also, my Giant Schnauzer ‘Daddy’ was young and not focused on me at times, so I was concerned about what he could do for me.

Seeing what other dogs in class were doing and realizing Daddy could learn to do those things too was really encouraging. But in the beginning he just didn’t “get it”. As training progressed, he became less distracted and paid more attention to me. My children and I worked with him at home to disregard distractions by bouncing a ball in the house while he wore his service dog vest. Now that we graduated as a team, our accomplishments excite me! The excellent training techniques I learned have given me the tools needed to do additional training beyond graduation.

Although Bill had given me the program’s overview before I began, the level of trainer quality was a surprise as was the sponsorship generosity. I had not expected to receive supplies such as leashes, a harness, a vest, bags, etc. With Daddy by my side, I’m now more outgoing, and outdoor activities are much more enjoyable. I travel comfortably with my family now and enjoy giving my wife and young daughters new experiences like going to the beach and to the mountains. In crowded places, I HAVE NO ANXIETY! Another plus has been the reduction of medications. A BIG PLUS I had not expected!

Daddy has learned the tasks “Cover” and “Center” which help me feel secure and calm in crowded situations. And I put him in a “Front” position so I know where he is and can keep him safe. I have not taught him “Push” but his natural instinct has him doing it spontaneously.

When asked how I feel about the program I said “Just look at the result!” and pointed to Daddy laying calmly at my feet. And he’s a beautifully behaved dog at home where he receives a lot of attention and love.

For any Veteran seeking the help of a Service Dog, they will need to understand that training is a commitment and not a magic pill. And, if the Veteran trusts the SD4V process and does the required practice with their dog, the program will be a big change for the better not only for the veteran but the entire family!

When I first enrolled in the SD4V program I was anxious and unsure of what I was getting into.  I only knew it was a big step and probably a lot of hard work.  Would I really have the time or ability to do what was required?

Ace has learned “Push”; important because it reminds me that I’m not alone and someone is beside me.  He learned “Front”; providing an opportunity for me to focus while giving a sense of security as my “Battle Buddy”.  And Ace does “Hug”, a technique that is mutually comforting to both of us.

The best comparison I can give to being with other Veterans is that it’s like reconnecting with old friends not seen for a while.  There is an instant connection because we have all served.

Being Ace’s trainer myself and learning how to “fix” any future training issue that may come up is an important achievement.  What we’ve done goes way beyond what I thought we could do, and the support we received from my family and the trainers was significant.

Something that surprised me about the program was that it taught me to be patient. Before training, I might have quickly become frustrated and impatient if things were not going exactly as expected.  That newly learned patience benefited me during training sessions and continues to overflow into my daily life.

I love Clemson football and in the past I loved being at games. Now with Ace, I can go back and enjoy those experiences again, only this time share them with my children!

To any Veteran who’s thinking about getting a service dog I say, “If you need it, if you’re feeling lost, you’ll gain a friend for life in your loyal dog and a great skill set.  Getting out of the house and in with other Veterans in training is an important opportunity to network and develop new friendships.”