RICHMOND, Va. (CBS19 NEWS) — The Sitter and Barfoot Veterans Care Center is one place that believes in the special bond that pets bring. Watch the full story on CBS 19 News here.
For Trey Keen, connection came first through dogs — and then through paint. A Marine Corps Veteran who served eight years as a helicopter crew chief, including a combat deployment to Afghanistan, Trey was introduced to Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) through the Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) program at the Philadelphia VA. What started as an eight-week commitment quickly became something more.
When the two-month program ended, Trey wasn’t ready to step away. He continued participating at WCC’s Philly program site at the University of Pennsylvania — and more than a year later, he’s still showing up.
“I like the premise of it, it’s an opportunity to help other Veterans,” Trey said. “There’s no better group than working with dogs. It’s really cool to know that in the long run these dogs are going to go on to help a Veteran in some shape or form.”
That sense of purpose mirrors what Trey experiences every day with his own service dog, Frankie, a three-year-old German Shepherd. While Frankie was trained through another organization, her impact on Trey’s life has been profound.
“She wakes me up before nightmares start — that has been amazing,” he shared. “She does a million other things for me. I don’t think we’ve ever been apart for more than 15 minutes since I’ve had her. She goes everywhere with me — Eagles games, concerts, just everyday things. My PTSD and anxiety have gone down about 90%. She saves my life somehow every single day.”
Before Frankie, Trey avoided public spaces altogether.
“For a while, I wasn’t doing anything — not going in public or anywhere,” he said. “Now there’s really nothing I won’t do if I have her with me.”
It was through another VA program — an arts and crafts class — that Trey discovered something else unexpected: painting. He decided to try painting Frankie and surprised himself with the result. What began as a therapeutic outlet soon turned into a meaningful way to give back.
Today, Trey paints dog portraits on canvas, primarily using acrylics, and asks only one thing in return: the recipient make a donation to WCC. Over the past year, Trey has painted nearly 25 dog portraits in support of WCC. Several feature WCC dogs, including Tugger, Moon Dog Sarah, and Sam.
“It’s therapeutic,” Trey said. “I paint on an easel, and it just helps.”
His connection to WCC goes beyond the art. Trey helped train Moon Dog while involved in his first MBTR session, and he speaks warmly about the WCC staff who make the experience possible.
“Lisa and Jen (who run WCC’s program at Penn) are just incredible,” he said. “They really go above and beyond to help. I’ve seen them do things you wouldn’t expect them to do for Veterans — that’s another big reason I keep going back, they’re just incredible people.”
WCC Program Director and Service Dog Training Instructor Jennifer Desher has seen Trey’s commitment firsthand.
“From the very beginning, Trey has shown up for Warrior Canine Connection with so much heart and generosity. When he surprised Lisa and me with a portrait of Sam II and Sarah Lu after his first eight weeks with us, we were truly blown away — not just by how perfectly he captured them, but by the thoughtfulness behind the gift. Beyond his incredible talent, Trey consistently looks out for his fellow Veterans, offering rides and support whenever needed and his care for our pups is just as genuine. We’re incredibly grateful to have him as part of the WCC family.”
Through paint, patience and a deep belief in WCC’s mission, Trey continues to give back — one dog portrait at a time.
Curious about Trey’s work or interested in a custom piece? Trey is taking on additional requests and is happy to connect. You can reach him directly at soupcans11@gmail.com.
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The Central Maryland Regional Veterans Treatment Court (VTC) marks an incredible 10 years of service to our nation’s Veterans — a decade that reflects dedication, collaboration and an unwavering belief that recovery is possible when a community shows up with support and compassion. This milestone is a testament to the court’s impact and the many people who have helped make its achievements possible.
Founded in 2015 by Senior District Court Judge Halee F. Weinstein, the program has helped hundreds of Veterans address misdemeanor charges through mental health treatment, peer mentoring and strong community support.
“As part of volunteering to train our service dogs in training, Veterans learn the importance of having patience with not only the dogs, but also with themselves,” said Kayla Prince, WCC Veteran training program coordinator. “We work on ‘rewarding more to correct less,’ which encourages focusing on positive moments in training and in life.”
Since launching MBTR in partnership with the Central Maryland Regional VTC, 85 Veterans have participated, contributing a total of 894 hours in WCC’s service dog training programs. Their work has supported 126 WCC service dogs in training who have participated in the program to date.
“The partnership with the Veterans Treatment Court and Warrior Canine Connection has been instrumental in helping veterans to heal and get their lives back on track,” said Baltimore City District Court Senior Judge Halee F. Weinstein. “Through helping to train service dogs, the veterans are learning new skills while also helping themselves and others, which benefits everyone in the program.”
For many Veterans, working with the dogs becomes a meaningful part of their routine — offering structure, building confidence and inciting laughter on tough days. Trainers often notice positive changes before the Veterans themselves do.
WCC is honored to partner with the court and play a small part in its success and impact on Veterans. We’re grateful for everyone who helps make this work possible — Judge Weinstein, the court team, mentors, the VA, United Way of Central Maryland, public defenders, prosecutors, community partners, and most of all, the Veterans whose commitment has helped advance the training of several WCC dogs.
Here’s to an extraordinary decade — and to even more lives changed in the years ahead.
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It’s something Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) has long seen in action: working with service dogs can make a meaningful difference in a Veteran’s healing. Now, research from Florida Atlantic University (FAU) and the University of Maryland (UMD) is backing that up with hard data, showing that service dog training can improve health outcomes — and may even slow cellular aging for female Veterans with post-traumatic stress (PTS).
Funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the study was conducted from 2018 through 2022 and tracked female Veterans as they participated in an eight-week service dog training program. Researchers collected physiological data at the start, middle and end of the program, including heart-rate variability, saliva samples and continuous monitoring of both participants and their dogs. The goal? To see how hands-on interaction with service dogs affects stress, wellbeing and overall health.
WCC supported the hands-on portion of the study through its Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) program, which helps Veterans learn to train service dogs for their fellow Warriors. While the control group viewed training videos, Veterans in WCC’s eight-week MBTR program worked directly with a service dog, building consistency and trust by partnering with the same dog each week. WCC also managed the monitoring equipment throughout the study, enabling the UMD and FAU research teams to focus on data collection and analysis.
The study also involved support from multiple researchers and collaborating institutions who helped design the methodology and capture the physiological data that made these findings possible. Together, the teams at FAU, UMD and WCC demonstrated how meaningful, hands-on service dog training through MBTR can be for female Veterans’ mental and physical wellbeing.
This hands-on approach not only generated valuable data but also highlighted meaningful impacts for participants. Mar Leifeld, assistant director of MBTR programs at WCC, who helped coordinate the organization’s involvement, noted one significant outcome: “We saw participants who might not usually seek out services for themselves get involved just to help with the study. Many have continued long after the research ended, forming lasting connections through our programs.”
The results make clear what WCC has always known: service dog training isn’t just a program — it’s a pathway to resilience, connection and lasting health benefits. And thanks to this collaborative research, the broader Veteran community can now see the measurable impact for themselves.
To learn more about WCC’s MBTR programming, visit www.warriorcanineconnection.org.
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At Jessup Correctional Institution in Maryland, the sound of wagging tails signals something remarkable—healing, growth and purpose taking shape behind prison walls. The partnership between Warrior Canine Connection and the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services is making a meaningful impact throughout the facility.
Eight WCC dogs (WCC’s Chappy, Rock, Matt, Thomas, Miller, Oscar, VJ and Stan) currently call JCI home. These hopeful future service dogs are raised and trained by incarcerated Veterans and other incarcerated volunteers, along with furlough Puppy Raisers, through WCC’s Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) program.
WCC’s MBTR program teaches Veterans how to work with service dogs in training, which fulfills a time-honored military tradition of Warriors helping Warriors. In the process, the Veteran can also benefit from skills development in communication, confidence building, accountability, emotional regulation and patience to promote an act of service while receiving a therapeutic benefit.
“Seeing the service dog training program take root at JCI has been incredibly impactful,” said Rick Yount, founder and executive director, Warrior Canine Connection. “It’s not only helping incarcerated Veterans build new skills and purpose but empowering them to help others through the dogs they train. It’s become a true win-win partnership that changes lives on both ends of the leash.”
Each week, WCC instructor Val Skinner leads classes that teach handlers and dogs trust, patience and responsibility. The program mirrors military structure, with participants advancing through ranks as their skills grow. Dogs live in the cells with their handlers — two men and one dog per cell — fostering deep bonds, shared care and accountability.
“The collaboration between DPSCS and the Warrior Canine Connection stands as a powerful model of rehabilitation through service,” said Carolyn J. Scruggs, Secretary of Public Safety & Correctional Services. “By training future service dogs, our participants gain invaluable skills and, most importantly, a renewed capacity for empathy and responsibility. This unique work extends its positive impact far beyond the facility walls—it builds confidence, fosters compassion, and directly supports the long-term success of participants reentering the community. Ultimately, this program helps heal two populations at once, preparing individuals for a productive future and delivering life-changing support to the Veterans they serve.”
And the voices of those involved show just how deeply it’s making an impact.
One handler shared, “I joined to help my fellow brothers and sisters who are suffering with PTSD, I want to contribute while incarcerated so I can try to repair some of the pain I caused. Free or incarcerated, I am still a veteran, and I will continue to help where I can.”
Another participant reflected, “This is the first time in many years I’ve gotten to care for something besides myself.”
A different participant added, “Aside from giving back to the community, I also knew it would help me with my own personal anxiety/PTSD issues.”
One Veteran trainer noted, “Warrior Canine Connection has given me more purpose in life and has given me the opportunity to give back to my fellow veteran community” — proof that this partnership is about much more than dog training.
“It is good to give back to our communities, with the suicide rate of veterans on the rise these support dogs can make a significant difference. Not only does this program purposeful but it also gives the dogs purpose, WCC is a great program, and it helps people across the board,” shared another trainer.
Furthermore, participants often stay involved across multiple dog placements, earning certificates of achievement and even letters of recommendation for parole consideration.
“The commitment I see from the Veterans is amazing. They take real pride in the dogs and what they’re doing for others,” said Skinner.
Even those not directly involved feel the program’s impact. Onlookers from the yard next to the outdoor training area often line up along the fence to watch the puppies at work and play. “It’s contagious — the positivity spreads throughout the facility,” shared Skinner.
A new puppy will soon join the Jessup pack as WCC’s Rock graduates from the program to continue advanced training toward becoming a certified service dog.
Funds from Boeing and the Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families help make this program possible.
Nearly three years into their collaboration, WCC and Jessup have created a powerful example of transformation through service — changing lives, fostering hope and strengthening communities, one paw at a time.
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Maria Milito of Maria’s Mutts and Stuff Podcast on iHeart chats with Warrior Canine Connection’s Mar Leifeld, Assistant Director of MBTR–Mission Based Trauma Recovery–programs. They discuss how veterans with PTSD help train puppies to become service dogs for veterans who need one. Warrior Canine Connection says: “One dog can help more than 80 warriors” so give a listen and learn! (This is their third time on Maria’s Mutts & Stuff!) Listen to the full conversation here.
After more than two decades of service in the U.S. Army, Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Todd DeLong knows what it means to live with both pride and sacrifice. Todd’s 22-year career began in the infantry before he transitioned into military intelligence and eventually network security. His final role, serving as Battalion Commander in the First Information Operations Command at Fort Belvoir, was one of leadership, responsibility and commitment.
But life changed dramatically after a series of brain surgeries to remove an epidermoid cyst, the last in 2010 resulting in a stroke. The surgery left Todd with mobility challenges, vision loss and difficulties with speech. His wife, Nannette, his partner of nearly 40 years, has been by his side through it all.
“Everything about our lives changed in some way,” said Nannette. “There were challenges, yes, but also opportunities to find new ways to live, connect and enjoy life. The support we’ve received has been such a gift.”
For Todd, that support has come largely through Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) and Warrior Canine Connection (WCC). These programs have provided not only therapeutic activities and assistance but also a sense of community and belonging.
WWP connected Todd with a community support specialist who visits twice a week to take him to appointments, events and peer support group meetings. At one of those meetings, Todd, a dog lover, heard Warrior Canine Connection’s Sarah Olson speak, sparking his involvement with the nonprofit. Since then, Todd has completed WCC’s 8-week Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) training program, and he now volunteers as an independent dog handler.
“I just like being with the dogs,” Todd shared simply.
Beyond time with the dogs, Todd keeps busy through WWP activities: from football games and movie outings to fly fishing with Project Healing Waters, golfing with Links to Freedom, Tai Chi and even bass guitar lessons through Guitars for Vets. He has also participated in the VA Air Rifle Clinic and attended events like “Day at the Bay,” where Veterans and families enjoy boat rides, Maryland blue crabs and camaraderie.
These programs provide more than just recreation — they offer healing and a renewed sense of identity.
“Being around other Veterans makes a big difference,” Todd said. “We understand each other.”
For Nannette, WWP’s caregiver programming has been equally impactful. She attended a retreat in 2021 that gave her both rest and connection with other caregivers.
“It was invaluable to talk with people who truly understood what it means to care for a loved one every day,” she said. “You leave with friendships, ideas and the reassurance that you’re not alone.”
Together, Todd and Nannette find joy in attending their grandchildren’s soccer games, cheering for James Madison University football and staying loyal to their beloved Philadelphia Eagles. They’ve built a life that balances medical challenges with moments of fun, family and connection.
Looking ahead, Todd is even considering applying for his own service dog through WCC — a step that could add another layer of independence and companionship to his journey.
When asked what keeps them going, Nannette doesn’t hesitate.
“It’s about embracing the support that’s out there and staying open to what life brings. These programs have given Todd opportunities to stay active and engaged, and they’ve given me space to breathe and connect, too. We’re grateful.”
For the DeLongs, healing is a shared journey — and with the help of WWP, WCC and a strong community of Veterans, friends and family, they continue to move forward together.
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A national shortage of people who raise puppies is delaying the process
Warrior Canine Connection is a national nonprofit that trains and pairs service dogs with veterans. Its goal is to help them recover from post-traumatic stress and reconnect with their families and communities. But a national shortage of people who raise puppies is delaying the process, leaving many veterans waiting.
Check out the full story in BethesdaToday.
Meet Tugger, the newest four-legged rookie to join the Philadelphia Phillies lineup with a mission that reaches far beyond the ballpark. Tugger is a service dog in training with Warrior Canine Connection (WCC), and his training is supported by the Phillies Charitable Foundation and nonprofit partner, Team Foster.
All WCC’s dogs are named after Veterans past and present. Tugger is named in honor of beloved Phillies icon Tug McGraw, the legendary relief pitcher who helped lead the team to its first World Series title in 1980. Off the field, McGraw also served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.
Tugger is the second pup sponsored by the Phillies and Team Foster, following WCC service-dog-in-training Major. Over the next 18–24 months, he’ll take part in WCC’s Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) program, training alongside Philadelphia-area Veterans. This process not only prepares Tugger to become a future service dog for a Veteran with visible or invisible wounds but also provides therapeutic benefits to those helping train him—like reduced anxiety, improved communication, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Tugger’s journey is just beginning, and he’s already captured hearts with his big-league energy and wagging tail. Backed by the Phillies, Team Foster, The Tug McGraw Foundation and Warrior Canine Connection, he’s more than a lovable pup—he’s training to become a life-changing service dog for a Veteran in need. As he embarks on this important mission, the city of Philadelphia is behind him, ready to cheer him on every step of the way.
Watch Tugger’s national TV debut on Good Morning America here.
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Angela Bonanno is the kind of person who makes you wonder if there’s anything she doesn’t do.
She’s a mom, a wife, a dog lover, an X-ray and MRI tech and a Coast Guard Veteran. And now, she’s training to become a Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) Team Leader and preparing to raise her first Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) service dog in training.
It’s a life full of movement and purpose—traits that first led Bonanno to military service. But behind her drive and positivity are the lasting, invisible wounds she carries from that time. Her journey from injury to healing has been long—and ongoing—but throughout it all, a deep commitment to service has remained her compass.
“9/11 played a major role in my decision to join the Coast Guard,” she says. “I was in college when the towers fell, and it changed everything. A month later, I was in the recruiter’s office enlisting—I felt a strong pull to do something that truly mattered.”
Bonanno served for six years, including aboard the U.S. Cutter Jarvis and at Sector San Francisco, where she worked as an electrician. But it was during her time at sea that everything changed. A military sexual trauma and traumatic brain injury altered the course of her life—and her career.
She was discharged in November 2007. What followed was one of the darkest chapters of her life.
“I felt completely lost,” she says. “The first year out was brutal. I didn’t know where to turn. I had no direction, and I was in pain—emotionally and physically.”
Then she found the Wounded Warrior Project.
“I started with baby steps,” she says. “Just showing up to events, meeting other Veterans who got it. That connection saved me.”
WWP introduced her to a supportive community—and to Warrior Canine Connection. Dogs, as it turns out, had always been part of her story.
“I grew up with Labs. After my first therapy stay at the Menlo Park VA in 2010, I met some of the service dogs on site and just fell in love,” she recalls. “There’s always been a dog in my life helping me stay grounded.”
In 2024, Bonanno participated in WCC’s Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) program at the Menlo Park VA, where Veterans help train future service dogs for fellow Warriors.
“I didn’t realize how much I was missing until I started working with the WCC dogs. My mood shifted. I felt calmer, more present. I knew then—I wanted to raise one of these dogs.”
That dream is now coming true. Angela has completed puppy-sitter training and will soon become a WCC Puppy Raiser. She and her family are preparing to welcome Rudy, a service dog in training, into their home. Her 3-year-old daughter Gianna is equally excited.
“She’s obsessed with dogs,” Bonanno laughs. “She makes report cards for the Puppy Raisers and brings them to training sessions. She’s going to be the best helper.”
Her husband, Robert, a firefighter, is fully onboard. WCC puppies have even visited his fire station.
As if that weren’t enough, Bonanno is also training to become a WWP Team Leader, which will allow her to host peer-support events and help guide other Veterans on their own paths to healing.
“I’ve been through it—I am still going through it,” she says. “But now I know how to navigate it, and I want to help other Veterans find that light too.”
That’s exactly what WWP and WCC have given her: belonging, purpose and hope. Whether through raising service dogs, mentoring others, or simply showing up, Bonanno is committed to continuing her mission of service.
“Service was what led me into the military,” she says. “And service is what’s helping me heal. This is the next chapter, and it’s a good one.”
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Warrior Canine Connection
is a 501(c)(3)
Nonprofit Organization
# 45-2981579