Stories of Impact Archives - Page 2 of 12 - Warrior Canine Connection

Learning Through Giving: Stone Ridge Students Support WCC

January 30, 2025

The incredible 7th grade students at Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart in Bethesda, Maryland, combined their passion for community service and a lesson in animal welfare to raise $800 in support of Warrior Canine Connection (WCC). These students not only learned about the importance of animal welfare but also put their knowledge into action by hosting a bake sale to support the nonprofit’s mission.

The students’ bake sale was part of a larger civic action unit in their social studies curriculum, which encourages students to engage with their local communities after learning about government and citizenship. This year, the class of 2030 chose WCC as their focus, inspired by the organization’s mission and its impact on Veterans and their families.

Guided by their teacher, Dr. Bridget Riley, Stone Ridge Middle School social studies teacher, the entire class got involved, baking, decorating and selling treats to classmates, teachers and families. The result? A heartwarming display of generosity, teamwork and a deeper understanding of how even small acts can make a big difference.

“Throughout the civic action project, we learned about animal welfare and what we can do to support an issue we care deeply about,” shared one Stone Ridge student. “Our cause was animal welfare, and we decided as a fundraising group to hold a bake sale to raise money for Warrior Canine Connection. The bake sale was a huge success; in the end, all our hard work came together.”

Earlier in the year, the 7^th grade students learned about WCC during a retreat, where they discussed the organization’s role as a model of giving and kindness. They reached out to WCC with thoughtful questions about the organization’s mission, the importance of animal welfare, and its dedication to supporting Veterans. The students even requested behind-the-scenes photos and videos to help them share WCC’s story with their school community.

Thank you, Stone Ridge class of 2030, for your generosity and for showing what it means to be active citizens in your community. We can’t wait to see how you’ll continue to make a difference in the world!

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Hearts in Sync: The Bond Between Dogs and Humans

January 29, 2025

At WCC, we’ve always believed the bond between humans and dogs goes far beyond companionship—it’s a connection built on love, trust and healing. A new study, “Behavioral and emotional co-modulation during dog–owner interaction measured by heart rate variability and activity,” reveals that during interactions, the hearts of dogs and their owners actually synchronize, beating in unison as if connected by an invisible thread of understanding.

This February, as we celebrate love and connection for Valentine’s Day, this discovery is a beautiful reminder of the power of the human-canine bond. For the veterans and Service Members we support, this heart-to-heart relationship with their service dogs is more than emotional—it’s transformative. Together, they show us how love, in its purest form, can truly heal and unite. Read more about the study in PsyPost.

Forever in Our Hearts: Remembering Shelley Smith

January 29, 2025

If you had the privilege of knowing Shelley Smith, you know what a truly special person she was. She had a gentle, kind spirit that made everyone feel comfortable and she loved every living creature—big and small. Her sudden passing in January has left us all heartbroken and in shock. She meant so much to all of us at WCC, and we will forever miss her.

As we continue to grieve this profound loss, we’re also determined to celebrate Shelley’s life, remembering the joy and warmth she brought to everyone she met. Her time with us was far too short, but the impact she made will stay with us forever.

Shelley joined the WCC pack as a service dog training instructor more than 5 years ago. In that time, she impacted so many. She trained 23 dogs in the program, introduced WCC programming to the San Francisco VA and Veterans Treatment Court, launched the PAWS for Veterans Therapy Act programming at Menlo Park VA and touched the lives of more than 600 Veterans involved in WCC’s Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) program.

In honor of Shelley, we reached out to team members, Veterans whose lives she touched, puppy raisers and others who had the privilege of crossing paths with her. We asked them to share memories and thoughts, so we can celebrate her life and honor her memory.

“I am still so heartbroken over this news. I can’t believe Shelley is no longer a text away when I have a question about my dog’s poop, or when I have a funny story or picture to share with her because I know she’d get a kick out of it. Shelley was an incredible person—so full of joy and passion for her job, and so easy to work with. She had an incredible impact on all the Veterans she worked with along with all of us volunteers. She was always thinking of us and giving us small gifts, just because. She was an incredible cook and always made the most delicious foods for any event or celebration we’d have. Often times she’d call me about something that should have been a five-minute conversation, but we’d end up chatting for almost an hour by the end of the call. The world lost an incredible human being.” – Karen Chiu, puppy raiser, WCC Menlo Park

“Even with her being far away, her loss is felt, and our hearts are heavy. I never got anything from Shelley other than kindness and hard work. I grieve for her family and for the world’s loss of someone who made everyone’s journey lighter.” – Cheryl Bingham, WCC volunteer program

“Shelley ‘s compassion and care was evident in all our conservations. Always thinking of others and open to learning and growing as a person. Her warm heart and caring soul will be greatly missed.” – Amy Guidash, WCC Asheville program director

“I am so heartbroken! She was one of the main reasons I did so well when I was in the Veterans Program! RIP Shelley! I am truly going to miss you!” – Greg Enriquez, Veteran program participant, WCC Menlo Park

“Shelley was truly the kindest and warmest individual. Despite being an introvert and pretty private about her life outside of WCC, she loved talking and catching up. One evening when she was dropping off one of the dogs I was raising I stayed outside talking so long that I badly overcooked dinner and we had to order out. She balanced her responsibilities at WCC so beautifully. She was an extremely talented dog trainer, but also cared so deeply for the Veterans she worked with. She was especially passionate about a women’s trauma group and the Veterans Court program. She impacted so many people directly through these programs and I know she is very missed in those communities.” – Tegan Kopilenko, puppy raiser, WCC Menlo Park

“Over the years, Shelley and I had the opportunity to attend many Veteran events together as she spearheaded WCC’s program operations in California. Time and again, I saw how her quiet and kind way instantly put people at ease and earned their trust. To all who had the good fortune to know Shelley, it was clear how much she cared for the Veterans she worked with and the dogs she prepared for careers supporting wounded Warriors. While some people thrive on praise for the work they do, Shelley always seemed to take solace in the quiet moments—seeing a smile on a Veteran’s face after a tough session; having a dog in training master a new command. And although she didn’t need public recognition for the impact she was making day in and day out, Shelley personally supported hundreds of Veterans as they walked a tough journey to recovery. She changed a lot of lives in a short time and will be dearly missed by all of us at WCC.” – Jennifer Wilder, WCC director of development

“What I adored so much about Shelley’s training style and honestly what I made sure I implemented into my own, was how she would give instruction and then observe. She never interrupted or took over until the Veteran had completed his command set or task. She understood the importance of allowing the Veterans to try first then learn through comparison. She was also so great at asking the Veterans questions like ‘how did that feel?’ or ‘do you think the dog understood the task?’ or even ‘what’s another way we could communicate the objective to the dog?’ It was incredible because she made it a learning moment instead of just teaching and instructing. She allowed them to process every moment, and it lit a fire in my training style. Any time I needed a quick answer, I would text, and she always responded, ‘how are you?’ and then got to my question. She truly cared and will be truly missed. I wish I had pictures with her, but I have such vivid memories of the conversations, calls, lunches, laughs and teaching moments. She was such a wonderful human!” – Emily Patton, WCC service dog training instructor

“Such heartbreaking news. Shelley was my WCC POC as an out-of-area puppy raiser for Captain and Piccone. She brought a smile and words of encouragement and support to every online training session. Lucky that I had a chance to meet her on trips to Menlo Park and reconnect on her graduation visits to HQ. Gone way too soon, but she leaves behind a legacy of care and compassion for her animals, friends, veterans and family.” – Terrie Bates, WCC volunteer and member of WCC Board of Directors

“This is devastating news. Shelley was my POC when Paul was training in California. She was so kind and helpful. I’m thankful I got to see her when I was there in July. Sending much love and comfort to the WCC pack and her family. She will be sorely missed.” – Mariah Beahm, WCC volunteer

A private service was held for Shelley in San Francisco, California in late January. Her loved ones are grappling not only with her loss, but to cover some of the expenses related to her care. If you would like to contribute, visit https://bit.ly/ShelleyGoFundMe. Rest in peace, Shelley.

Kearney & Company Paws-itively Impacting Veterans

November 18, 2024

Since its founding in 1985, Kearney & Company has built a reputation as a premier audit, consulting, and technology firm focused on the government. But the work Kearney does goes beyond just the numbers—it’s about making a real difference. The firm’s commitment to community outreach is at the heart of its culture, with a special emphasis on supporting military and Veteran communities.

A perfect example of Kearney’s commitment to the military community is its 12+ year partnership with Warrior Canine Connection (WCC). Over the years, Kearney has raised more than $530,000 for the nonprofit, helping fund programs that are literally changing—and saving—the lives of wounded Veterans. But it’s not just about the money—Kearney team members have also volunteered with WCC and supported the organization through various events—a true testament to their dedication to giving back.

Dr. Kyle Richards, Kearney’s Director of Employee Engagement, is also a member of WCC’s Board of Directors and an ardent supporter of the nonprofit. He explains why the partnership is such a natural fit.

“At Kearney, we believe in the concept of WCC’s clinical approach to Mission Based Trauma Recovery training,” said Dr. Richards. “There are a lot of organizations that pair Veterans with service dogs, and they’re doing incredible work. But as CPAs, we bring an auditor’s lens to everything we do. So, when you bring in that clinical approach, you can ensure that every part of the program is studied rigorously—that’s when real progress happens. From selecting the right dog to tracking outcomes and gathering data that can inform future research, WCC is committed to the same level of rigor in its work as Kearney is in ours. We’re deeply invested in the process and the impact it has. The entire firm takes such pride and delight in it.”

To date, more than 9,000 Veterans have participated in WCC’s Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) training program, which enlists Warriors to help train service dogs for their fellow Warriors. By interacting with the dogs as they move from puppyhood to training to adult service dogs, Warrior Trainers benefit from a physiological and psychological animal-human connection. As a result of their efforts, Veterans with visible and invisible wounds receive the finest in trained service dogs.

“Kearney’s partnership and Kyle’s leadership on our Board have been invaluable,” said Rick Yount, founder and executive director, Warrior Canine Connection. “Their support, both financial and through their expertise, has played a critical role in helping us enhance and expand our programs. The insights and guidance Kyle has provided have helped make a lasting impact on WCC, enabling us to serve Veterans and their families more effectively. We are incredibly grateful for Kearney and Kyle’s ongoing commitment to our mission and the difference they’re helping us make in the lives of those who have served.”

Kearney was recently recognized on Military Times’ 2024 Best for Vets: Employers list. The list highlights organizations that are evaluated based on their policies, practices, and benefits for veterans. Notably, more than one in six Kearney team members have served in the Armed Forces. This strong Veteran presence across the firm including in leadership roles helps Kearney truly understand and embrace the mission-driven culture that Veterans bring.

“It’s been a long and fruitful partnership between Kearney and Warrior Canine Connection, and we look forward to continuing it for years to come because the mission was, is, and remains critical for the amount of need out there,” said Richards. “The more we can do to support WCC, the more the organization can do to support Veterans, their families, and the lives of our community members. It really creates a ripple effect that both impacts our Veterans and those who love and care for them.”

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WCC Celebrates 2024 Graduates; Dedicates Renovated Barn

October 3, 2024

Photo credit: Akash Raghu

On Saturday, September 21, Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) marked its 13^th annual graduation with an inspiring virtual celebration. The ceremony honored Veterans and their newly partnered assistance dogs, highlighting the incredible transformations these partnerships create. Admiral James Hancock, a retired Navy medical leader, delivered a powerful keynote address. Attendees were also treated to moving videos showcasing each Veteran’s journey and the unbreakable bond they now share with their life-changing, four-legged companions.

After the virtual graduation, over 600 guests — including past and current graduates, family members, puppy parents, and WCC supporters — gathered at the Healing Quarters in Boyds, Md. for an afternoon of fun. It was a perfect day to enjoy the sunshine, delicious Mission BBQ, live music by Lulu’s World Rock Band, and great conversations with fellow Veterans and supporters.

As if that wasn’t enough excitement, WCC also officially dedicated its newly renovated historic dairy barn — The WCC Angel Training Center — named for the beloved family dog of Dan and Gayle D’Aniello, whose leadership and generosity, among many others, helped make the project possible. Angel brought years of joy and love to their family, and we’re excited to see this state-of-the-art facility help us support even more Veterans. (Check out highlights from the celebration and dedication here.)

The newly dedicated Angel Training Center has deep historical significance. Originally constructed in 1938, the barn was designed by the University of Maryland as a dairy facility with the mission of providing milk to troops stationed in the National Capitol Region during World War II. Rather than demolishing the structure, WCC felt strongly about preserving this important piece of history. Now, almost 100 years later, the barn has been thoughtfully renovated and repurposed to continue serving Veterans — this time as a state-of-the-art training facility for service dogs, helping to support Veterans in a new but equally impactful way.

The newly transformed Angel Training Center has received some major upgrades for both the staff and the service dogs. For the staff, there are now dedicated workstations, meeting spaces, restrooms, and even a food prep area to make daily operations more efficient. For the dogs, the facility includes a large, modern training space, kennels, grooming areas, and a laundry nook — everything needed to ensure the pups are well taken care of and properly trained to support Veterans.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the many generous individuals and organizations whose contributions made the Angel Training Center a reality. Special thanks go to Dan and Gayle D’Aniello, the State of Maryland, Julie Walters, a private family foundation, Davis Construction, Montgomery County, Associated General Contractors of America and John and Marcia Shooshan for their leadership and support, as well as the hundreds of individuals who contributed to this incredible project. Your generosity has helped create a lasting impact for our Veterans and service dogs!

All in all, WCC’s 2024 graduation was a truly awesome reminder of the vital role service dogs play in transforming the lives of Veterans. It was a day filled with wagging tails, heartfelt thanks and the comforting knowledge that these new teams will face the future together — side by side, and leash in hand.

If you missed the virtual graduation ceremony or you’d like to watch it again, you can view it online here.

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Honoring Allen Whitwell: A Legacy of Devotion to WCC

July 17, 2024

Allen Whitwell’s connection to Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) began serendipitously through the organization’s popular puppy cam back in the early days in Brookeville. Drawn initially by the adorable sight of playful puppies, Allen quickly became a steadfast supporter of WCC, dedicating his time and resources to advance its mission of supporting Veterans through the healing power of service dogs. His support of WCC continues even after his recent passing (June 24, 1939 – January 17, 2024), thanks to a charitable estate gift he left the organization.

A Navy Veteran who served from 1957 to 1961, Allen worked in aviation while on active duty. He was stationed on the aircraft carrier Franklin Roosevelt in the Mediterranean, during the early years of the Vietnam War. His military experience fostered a deep empathy for fellow Veterans, particularly those struggling to reintegrate into civilian life after enduring the hardships of service. This empathy translated into a passionate commitment to WCC.

Allen’s generosity was evident in his active participation in WCC’s social media fundraising campaigns and his readiness to contribute to the organization’s wish list needs. Whether it was a fundraising competition on CrowdRise or an urgent need for supplies, Allen’s contributions always helped WCC surpass its goals.

When asked about his support, Allen simply said, “I feel so bad for some of the Veterans coming back and I want to do what we can to help them.” And like so many others, Allen said “Well at first, I came for the puppies, but I stayed for the mission. I had no idea what these puppies could do!”

In 2020, he received WCC’s Wag of the Tail Award, which recognized his significant contributions to the organization. However, Allen’s commitment to WCC extended beyond his lifetime. Upon his passing, Allen left an estate gift to support WCC, ensuring that his legacy of generosity would continue to benefit Veterans and their service dogs.

Allen’s gift has left a legacy at WCC and will be a huge support for many years to come. His bequest will not only fund current program needs, but also will be invested in the WCC Endowment Fund established earlier this year. The Endowment Fund was created to ensure that, far into the foreseeable future, Veterans will be able to heal from their visible and invisible wounds through WCC’s No-Fail Mission.

As we grieve Allen’s passing and reflect on his past steadfast support of WCC, we find comfort in knowing that his legacy of caring for fellow Veterans will continue in perpetuity. For all who have witnessed Allen’s kindness and generosity over the years, you know that his generous spirit will live on as he is among the first to join WCC’s Legacy Giving Society. For those inspired by Allen’s legacy, considering an estate gift or other planned giving options can be a powerful way to support WCC and leave a lasting impact on the lives of Veterans.

To learn more about how you can support Warrior Canine Connection and leave a legacy like Allen’s, please email giving@warriorcanineconnection.org. Your contribution can make a world of difference for Veterans in need and help continue the invaluable work that Allen so passionately supported.

“D-Harmony” Connects Veterans with Service Dogs

May 29, 2024

In the quaint town of Boyds, Maryland, there exists a matchmaking service like no other. Welcome to “D-Harmony,” where dogs and humans find their perfect match. But this isn’t your typical matchmaking service—it’s Warrior Canine Connection (WCC), a nonprofit organization that breeds, trains and places highly skilled service dogs with Veterans with visible and invisible wounds.

Much like the algorithms of online dating platforms, WCC’s “D-Harmony” uses a carefully crafted process to match Veterans with service dogs tailored to their specific needs—sort of like the equivalent of swiping right, only using a lot more data, along with a human touch.

“Every match is unique and highly individualized, as we consider each Veteran for every dog in our program,” shares Sarah DelCore, Veteran and Military Family Services Manager, WCC. “We meticulously analyze the skills needed, capabilities, personalities, energy level, lifestyles and more, of both the Veterans and the dogs to ensure a perfect fit.”

Navy Veteran Geoff Beatty was matched with WCC service dog McKee three years ago and says the process was “amazing—almost magical.”

“We’re on the same wavelength … our energies have matched each other,” said Beatty. When I have energy, he is very much the same; on days when I’m grouchy, he’s more low-key as well. I think he can feel me and how I’m doing and has an innate ability to adapt. I can’t imagine my life without McKee, he’s my constant companion who helps me navigate daily challenges.”

Beyond the chemistry and personality that just “clicked” for them, Beatty says that although unrelated to WCC, there were other signs during his initial visit to Boyds for the matching process that put him at ease.

“At the hotel, I was randomly assigned to room #815, which coincidentally is the area code where I live,” said Beatty. “McKee’s namesake, Donald McKee, was a medic in the Army and a fellow member of the American Legion. McKee trained at Camp Grant during WWII, which is only about 10-15 minutes from where I live. There were too many coincidences to be a coincidence, some things are just meant to be. I’m just WCC’s biggest fan … What a great organization they are, such good people, I just can’t say enough.”

Retired Army Captain Melissa Smith waited 2+ years before being matched with service dog Healy.

“We were committed to WCC and however long it took because of who WCC is and getting a pup who is paw-fect,” said Smith.

The duo graduated as part of WCC’s Class of 2023. Smith says the process of being matched was seamless from beginning to end.

“I felt very seen as an individual in the process,” said Smith. “I knew I was going to love any dog I received, but I trusted Sarah and the team to find the best match for me, that was the main thing. At the end of the day, I knew WCC was going to put me with someone who was the right fit me for me. I cannot imagine my life without Healy. Healy is a gift from G-d … I am truly thankful for him each and every day. I can’t thank WCC enough for how they have treated me, and also for Healy.”

Smith credits Healy for helping her get back to doing all the things she loved before her military service.

“He keeps me engaged, communicating and I’ve even become very friendly with my neighbors because of him. My PTSD has made me very hesitant to engage with people and not entrusting of folks. Healy is the complete opposite in that way of me, he’s super friendly, always super excited to see everybody, and he kind of takes the pressure off me to have something to say, and I can just enjoy him enjoying people and it takes the focus off me. Knowing he’s by my side when I need him helps me with everything I do. People don’t remember me, but they always remember Healy.”

Beyond the initial connection, WCC provides ongoing support to ensure the relationship between Veteran and service dog flourishes. Through training sessions, personalized coaching, and follow-up care, WCC’s team ensures that both human and canine are equipped to thrive together. It’s a commitment to fostering lasting bonds built on trust, empathy, and unconditional love.

Since its inception in 2011, WCC has placed 149 assistance dogs with Service Members and Veterans. Each relationship is a testament to the unbreakable bond between humans and dogs forged through “D-Harmony’s” unique matchmaking process. And just like finding love online, sometimes all it takes is a little bit of magic—and a whole lot of heart—to find your paw-fect match.

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PTSD Awareness Month: Recognizing and Supporting Our Veterans

May 29, 2024

June is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month. Here at Warrior Canine Connection, we’ve witnessed firsthand how the best therapy sometimes comes with four legs and a wet nose. For Veterans grappling with PTSD, canine-assisted therapy can be incredibly effective in recognizing triggers, reducing anxiety and enhancing social integration, among many other benefits.

This month and every month, we at WCC are committed to fighting the stigma around PTSD and providing unwavering support to Service Members and Veterans who are battling this condition.

As one Veteran who participated in our Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) program shared, “Training the dogs gave me time away from my PTSD symptoms. I was more focused on connecting with the dogs than my own symptoms.”

Other MBTR participants also shared their experiences with the program.

“Before I began the 8-week program, I was suffering from major depression,” shared a Veteran participant.” After numerous treatments, including a variety of medications and ten sessions of ECT, I was only minimally better. I was feeling numb for years and was unable to feel any joy.  I never left my home and did not want to do anything, even bathing was difficult.  My occupational therapist recommended WCC.  I honestly did not want to go, but I forced myself. After the first two sessions, I finally began to have some sort of feeling for the first time in years. I now leave my home several times a week and I want to do some things.  It is a work in progress, and I have plenty of bad days, but this is a breakthrough.”

“Training the service dogs gave me a sense of purpose; connectedness with fellow veterans, instructors, and dogs; increased my mood; helped me be patient with my own dogs; and gave me a sense of pride that I could contribute to society,” shared an MBTR participant. “It made me feel like the VA cares about veterans with PTSD; I felt loved by the animals and instructors. Overall, this program made helped me feel good about myself again, purposeful and confident in myself.”

It’s important to recognize that training or having a service dog isn’t a quick solution for PTSD—it requires dedication, time and hard work. It’s just one of many effective treatments supported by the medical community to support Veterans battling PTSD.

The key is to know that help is available, find the options that works best for you, and to know that you are not alone. If you or someone you know are interested in WCC’s MBTR training, email Mar Leifeld at mbtr@warriorcanineconnection.org for more information. And if you’re unsure where to turn first, please know the Veterans Crisis Line (1-800-273-8255) is available 24/7.

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Veterans Help Group Continues Support of WCC

May 29, 2024

Over the past two years, Florida-based Veterans Help Group (VHG) has demonstrated its commitment to Veterans by partnering with Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) to support its Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) training program. This ongoing partnership reflects VHG’s unwavering dedication to serving those who have served our country, making a significant impact on the lives of Veterans in need.

In addition to its generous financial support of WCC, VHG also extends its expertise and comprehensive support to Veterans and their families navigating the ins and outs of disability benefits, which can sometimes be challenging. Founded over 15 years ago, VHG is proud to be a leader in both the Courts and on Capitol Hill fighting to improve the lives of disabled Veterans and their families.

Among the areas of expertise that VHG provides is Social Security disability. With the clock ticking on Social Security disability benefits, Veterans can visit https://veteranshelpgroup.com/warriorcanineconnection/ to consult with VHG about financial and medical compensation that they may be entitled to receive through the Social Security Administration because of their military service.

Through their unwavering commitment, VHG continues to be a beacon of support for Veterans in need.

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Wanted: Puppy Raisers for WCC’s Life-Changing Mission

March 28, 2024

Warrior Canine Connection started small in Brookeville, Maryland, operating out of founder Rick Yount’s home. Today, it has grown significantly, with its Healing Quarters situated on an expansive 88-acre farm in Boyds, Md. With programs now spanning five states with 15 sites, WCC provides its vital Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) services to Veterans and military families nationwide. Despite this expansion, all WCC locations share a common need for Puppy Raisers to support their programs.

Are you passionate about dogs and looking to make a difference? Consider becoming a WCC Puppy Raiser and play a crucial role in raising a service dog for a deserving Veteran. With programs in California, Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, there are opportunities for volunteers across the country.

Here’s how it works: Puppy Raisers take in service dogs in training for about two years until they graduate and are placed with their fur-ever Veteran. Each puppy joins their Puppy Raiser between 8 weeks to approximately 5 months of age. Can’t commit long-term but still want to help? Many locations also need Puppy Sitters, who provide care and affection to WCC’s service dogs while their Puppy Parents take breaks. Explore Puppy Raiser and Puppy Sitter volunteer opportunities today!

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