For many Veterans, adjusting to life after service comes with unique challenges. Through a partnership between Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) and Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), Veterans are finding healing, connection and camaraderie in an unexpected way—through adorable puppies.
Exposure to people, touch, sound and other stimuli are a crucial part of a puppy’s development. That’s why WCC starts the socialization of its future service dogs when pups are just 4-5 weeks old. WCC’s puppy socialization program takes place multiple times a week, offering Veterans, including those involved in WWP’s programming, military families and those on the waitlist for a service dog, the chance to interact with these adorable puppies.
But as Lauren Tyler, WCC’s Breeding and Puppy Development manager, who helps coordinate the sessions, will tell you, beyond puppy enrichment and training exercises, these gatherings are providing another deep impact—a space for Veterans to connect with one another in a meaningful way.
“The program is really about connection,” Tyler says. “Yes, we’re working with future service dogs, but what also stands out besides the puppies is the sense of community being built. It’s a space where Veterans can bond, share experiences, make new friends and find support from people who truly understand them.”
One of those WWP participants is retired Air Force Major Idola Gunn, who retired in 2014 after 28.5 years on active duty. Major Gunn learned about WCC’s puppy socialization program through WWP. After losing her 11+ year old dogs in 2017 and 2019, Gunn was eager to learn more about the program. Fast forward a couple of years, and she has since participated a half-dozen times and attended two WCC service dog graduations.
“I left military service with mental and physical disabilities,” said Gunn. “Throughout my career, I have met several Department of Defense working dogs, however, they are doing just that, ‘working.’ WCC’s puppy socialization program is a feel-good activity that allows you to spend time with and eventually help train the dogs. I have seen the interactions with other Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors and Marines, and to see their faces while they are cuddling and snuggling these pups, it is simply great. It was something I truly needed in my life.”
For retired Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Sarah Gooch, the program provided an unexpected yet deeply fulfilling outlet after sustaining head trauma and lengthy rehabilitation.
“If we lived closer, I’d be there all the time,” Gooch says. “It doesn’t matter what kind of day I was having—when I got to go in and work with the puppies, I couldn’t help but smile. It was my nirvana.”
Her connection with WCC became even more personal when WCC service dog, “Sarah Lu,” was named after her through its namesake program.
“It was such an honor,” said Gooch. “The puppy parents were incredible, and they even brought her to my retirement. That moment meant everything to me.”
Gooch believes that programs like this, and many others than WWP offers, not only help Veterans focus on something positive but also serve as an opportunity to reconnect with a part of themselves that may have been lost.
“It helps to refocus, to bring some joy back into your life,” she says. “And the best part? You’re never alone in it. There’s always someone there who understands what you’re going through.”
While each Veteran’s journey is different, one thing remains the same—the importance of connection. Whether it’s sharing stories over a training session or simply sitting with a puppy and finding a moment of peace, WCC’s puppy socialization program provides a unique kind of healing and connection.
“There’s always a different group of people volunteering,” Gunn says. “You meet people from different branches of service, different walks of life—it’s a great opportunity to share. Even just the ride out there is soothing.”
For many, this program is more than just an event on a calendar. It’s a lifeline. It’s a place where Veterans can find understanding, companionship and a sense of purpose—all while helping to ready some adorable puppies for their first stages of training.
“If you’re on the fence about it, just try it,” Gunn encourages. “It’s an awesome program. Pick and choose what resonates with you and take that step. You never know how much it might change your life.”
To learn more about Wounded Warrior Project’s programs, visit https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org.
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Finding connection through canine companionship: Veterans and the power of puppy socialization
Exposure to people, touch, sound and other stimuli are a crucial part of a puppy’s development. That’s why WCC starts the socialization of its future service dogs when pups are just 4-5 weeks old. WCC’s puppy socialization program takes place multiple times a week, offering Veterans, including those involved in WWP’s programming, military families and those on the waitlist for a service dog, the chance to interact with these adorable puppies.
But as Lauren Tyler, WCC’s Breeding and Puppy Development manager, who helps coordinate the sessions, will tell you, beyond puppy enrichment and training exercises, these gatherings are providing another deep impact—a space for Veterans to connect with one another in a meaningful way.
“The program is really about connection,” Tyler says. “Yes, we’re working with future service dogs, but what also stands out besides the puppies is the sense of community being built. It’s a space where Veterans can bond, share experiences, make new friends and find support from people who truly understand them.”
One of those WWP participants is retired Air Force Major Idola Gunn, who retired in 2014 after 28.5 years on active duty. Major Gunn learned about WCC’s puppy socialization program through WWP. After losing her 11+ year old dogs in 2017 and 2019, Gunn was eager to learn more about the program. Fast forward a couple of years, and she has since participated a half-dozen times and attended two WCC service dog graduations.
“I left military service with mental and physical disabilities,” said Gunn. “Throughout my career, I have met several Department of Defense working dogs, however, they are doing just that, ‘working.’ WCC’s puppy socialization program is a feel-good activity that allows you to spend time with and eventually help train the dogs. I have seen the interactions with other Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors and Marines, and to see their faces while they are cuddling and snuggling these pups, it is simply great. It was something I truly needed in my life.”
For retired Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Sarah Gooch, the program provided an unexpected yet deeply fulfilling outlet after sustaining head trauma and lengthy rehabilitation.
“If we lived closer, I’d be there all the time,” Gooch says. “It doesn’t matter what kind of day I was having—when I got to go in and work with the puppies, I couldn’t help but smile. It was my nirvana.”
Her connection with WCC became even more personal when WCC service dog, “Sarah Lu,” was named after her through its namesake program.
“It was such an honor,” said Gooch. “The puppy parents were incredible, and they even brought her to my retirement. That moment meant everything to me.”
Gooch believes that programs like this, and many others than WWP offers, not only help Veterans focus on something positive but also serve as an opportunity to reconnect with a part of themselves that may have been lost.
“It helps to refocus, to bring some joy back into your life,” she says. “And the best part? You’re never alone in it. There’s always someone there who understands what you’re going through.”
While each Veteran’s journey is different, one thing remains the same—the importance of connection. Whether it’s sharing stories over a training session or simply sitting with a puppy and finding a moment of peace, WCC’s puppy socialization program provides a unique kind of healing and connection.
“There’s always a different group of people volunteering,” Gunn says. “You meet people from different branches of service, different walks of life—it’s a great opportunity to share. Even just the ride out there is soothing.”
For many, this program is more than just an event on a calendar. It’s a lifeline. It’s a place where Veterans can find understanding, companionship and a sense of purpose—all while helping to ready some adorable puppies for their first stages of training.
“If you’re on the fence about it, just try it,” Gunn encourages. “It’s an awesome program. Pick and choose what resonates with you and take that step. You never know how much it might change your life.”
To learn more about Wounded Warrior Project’s programs, visit https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org.
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Cuddles, Cookies and a Great Human
Hi there! Mike here—your friendly neighborhood Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) Ambassador Dog and, if I may say so myself, a rather distinguished gentleman. At nearly 11 years old, I’ve been around the block a few times, met incredible humans and learned a thing or two about life. But today, I want to tell you about someone truly special — Dennis O’Rourke.
Now, I know what you’re thinking — dogs can’t write. And you’re mostly correct. This is actually a bark-to-text situation (shoutout to technology). But trust me, if I could type, this story would still be worth telling.
Enter Dennis O’Rourke. Dennis showed up at WCC a little over two years ago, and let’s just say, he wasn’t in the best shape when we first met. He had recently lost Sandy, his wife of 35 years, and on top of that, he was navigating the long-term effects of a stroke. You could see the weight of the world on his shoulders. But here’s the thing about Dennis — he’s an Army Veteran, and if there’s anything I’ve learned from my time with Warriors, it’s that they never quit.
Dennis served 14 years in the U.S. Army, traveling all over the world — Frankfurt, Germany; Korea; California. The Army even trained him at IBM, where he became a whiz with electronics and mechanics (which, unfortunately, does not include dog treat dispensers — missed opportunity, Dennis). After the Army, his career took him to all over the world, including Australia, Sweden and Denmark. Pretty impressive for a guy who now spends his Thursdays happily covered in dog hair.
When Dennis first started visiting, he was quiet, seemed a little unsure of himself and —between you and me — he didn’t smell like dog treats. But week after week, he kept showing up. And then one Thursday, something magical happened …
Dennis brought cookies.
Not just any cookies — the best cookies. The kind that make a dog sit a little straighter, wag a little harder and momentarily forget any shred of “professional training.” My fellow canines and I may or may not lose our collective minds when Dennis walks in. Katie Hearne calls us “slightly unprofessional,” but let’s be honest — when a man brings treats AND pets you just right, how are you supposed to keep your composure?
But Dennis isn’t just the treat guy. Nope. He’s so much more.
Dennis has this thing he does — it’s quiet, simple, but pure magic. He grooms me. And let me tell you, not all humans have the patience for my golden locks. He sits down, takes his time, and brushes me with the gentleness of a best friend who just gets you. It’s not just about looking good (though, let’s face it, I’m a handsome fella). It’s about feeling safe, loved and cared for.
And Dennis? He’s got this way about him. He doesn’t rush. He doesn’t expect anything in return. He just shows up — week after week, brush in hand, kindness in his heart.
Dennis may have come to WCC looking for healing, but somewhere along the way, he started helping us heal, too. He may not play favorites (or so he says), but between you and me, I know I’ve got a special place in his heart. And on Thursdays? He’s got a special place in mine.
So, this Valentine’s Day, I want to say something important:
Dennis, thank you.
Thank you for the cookies.
Thank you for the cuddles.
Thank you for the grooming sessions.
Thank you for showing up — for us, for yourself and for everyone who needs a little love.
I’ll be waiting by the gate this Thursday, Dennis — tail wagging, ready for treats and looking forward to our weekly cuddle session.
With love (and a little extra dog hair),
Mike 🐾
Hearts in Sync: The Bond Between Dogs and Humans
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.
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Learning Through Giving: Stone Ridge Students Support WCC
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 7th 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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Puppy Love Printables
Unleash the love this Valentine’s Day with WCC’s adorable, service dog-inspired printable cards—free to download and perfect for dog lovers of all ages! Whether you’re looking for a fun activity for kids, a thoughtful touch for classrooms, or a sweet surprise for friends and coworkers, these paw-some designs are sure to make tails wag. Just click here, download, print and share the love!
Hearts in Sync: The Bond Between Dogs and Humans
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
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.
Organization names dog after late veterans affairs secretary
Not every hero needs a bronze statue or a painted portrait hanging in a prominent building to be remembered. Sometimes a dog will do just fine.
Earlier this year, an organization called Warrior Canine Connection announced it was naming a service dog after George Owings III. Read the full story in Southern Maryland News.
Warrior Canine Connection’s pup ‘Jimmy’ pays visit to namesake Jimmy Stewart Museum
A year after being introduced to the public, ‘Jimmy’—a service dog in training—visited the Jimmy Stewart Museum days before Christmas. Jimmy is being trained by Maryland-based nonprofit, Warrior Canine Connection, and is currently in training at Duquesne University. Read more about Jimmy’s journey in the Indiana Gazette.
Healing Together: Wounded Warrior Project’s Project Odyssey and the Power of Dogs
Project Odyssey is a 12-week program that helps strengthen coping and communication skills through group activities, outdoor experiences and a 5-day in-person workshop. Over the past three years, Warrior Canine Connection’s (WCC) Asheville team has supported several sessions, bringing their service dogs in training to interact with Veterans as part of WCC’s Mission-Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) program.
“Project Odyssey really aligns well with our Mission-Based Trauma Recovery curriculum,” says Amy Guidash, WCC’s program director. “We absolutely love working with Wounded Warrior Project—they’re fabulous partners. It’s another opportunity to bring the healing power of working with service dogs to a whole different group of Veterans. We’re able to show how the skills they’re learning in Project Odyssey—like clear communication, impulse control, and relationship building—connect directly to their work with the dogs.”
During in-person workshop, the goal is to challenge Warriors to get out of their comfort zones, learn new skills on how to approach different experiences and help with connecting the experience to improve their own coping skills and build resiliency to when challenging their own lives. Then, after they’ve left, the idea is to use the things they’ve learned during the program to adapt, cope and build a better life. For many participants, joining the program alone takes courage.
“It’s amazing to see Warriors come together for a week,” says Alex Jankowski, Project Odyssey Specialist, WWP. “Even just getting on a plane to attend can be a huge step. Watching them move out of their comfort zones, form connections and build camaraderie is incredible. That’s part of the magic—seeing their growth and the support networks they create.”
The program intentionally keeps the in-person activities under wraps until the last moment to challenge participants to stay present and adaptable, teaching them to apply those lessons to real-life scenarios.
WCC’s service dogs bring an added depth to these experiences, helping Veterans practice patience, communication and trust.
“It’s amazing how quickly Veterans connect with the dogs,” Guidash says. “There are so many lightbulb moments where they realize, ‘If I can communicate this effectively with a dog, I can do it in other areas of my life, too.’”
Guidash recalls one session where two female Veterans initially stayed on the sidelines due to their reservations about dogs.
“By the end, they were fully engaged—interacting with the dogs, laughing and even taking selfies with them,” she says. “It was incredible to witness that shift. In such a short time, the dogs helped build a positive connection, fostering trust and emotional breakthroughs.”
WWP values WCC’s contributions to Project Odyssey, seeing it as a meaningful addition.
“When we partnered with WCC, the excitement among participants was palpable,” Jankowski says. “Many of them have personal connections to dogs, so being part of the training process hit home. It added a new layer of connection to the experience.”
For WCC, the collaboration is equally impactful.
“We’re so grateful to be a small part of the work WWP is doing with Project Odyssey,” Guidash says. “The program is making such a meaningful impact on Veterans’ lives, and we’re honored to support that.”
For Veterans who attend Project Odyssey each year, time spent with WCC’s service dogs is more than just heartwarming—it’s transformative. These interactions teach valuable life skills and offer Veterans a new way to connect—with themselves, with others, and with the world around them.
Healing can take many forms—a peer’s encouragement, a mentor’s guidance or the wag of a dog’s tail. For these Veterans, every small step forward is a testament to their resilience and the life-changing power of programs like Project Odyssey. To learn more about WWP’s Project Odyssey program, visit https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/programs/project-odyssey.
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