Tails of Valor Paws of Honor rescues puppies and trains them to be service dogs for veterans. However, the dog's journey touches many more lives than just the veteran who receives the trained service dog.
Using the theological foundations of animal-assisted therapy research, TOV's Canine Connections focuses on several lessons/tasks to build a rapport between the veteran and the canine in the therapeutic relationship. Veterans work with TOV trainers to develop the puppies, all of whom are named in honor of a fallen soldier. Each activity, command or exercise, taught to the canine during their 14- to 20-month training period, correlates to symptoms needing to be addressed by the veteran. The dogs learn more than 100 exposures of everyday living, over 40 commands and three tasks, specific to their veteran. Upon completion of their training (1,500 to 2,000 hours), these fully trained service dogs are given at no cost to veterans. The Animal-Assisted Intervention Advantages Program, now within the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Centers, helps the veteran experience companionship, warmth and patience with a non-judgmental partner. TOV's focus is to promote social support, providing positive physical and mental health interactions to improve the quality of life.
Learn more at tailsofvalor.org or call 267.733.7294
Non-profit 501(c)(3) EIN #81-1221443
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