Supporting Our Veterans and Addressing Pet Overpopulation: The Soldier’s Best Friend Program
At the Joseph Kane Foundation, our commitment to honoring and supporting our veterans is at the heart of everything we do. As a veteran himself, our foundation is founded in his honor, Joseph Kane, understood the unique challenges faced by those who have served our country. We are proud to support the Soldier’s Best Friend program, an initiative dedicated to aiding veterans while also addressing the issue of pet overpopulation.
A Partnership for Healing and Hope
The Soldier’s Best Friend program is designed to provide invaluable support to veterans by pairing them with dogs in need, either from local shelters or their own pets. This initiative not only helps veterans but also contributes to solving the pet overpopulation problem. Here’s how the program works:
Pairing Veterans with Dogs: Once a veteran is accepted into the program, they are paired with a dog adopted by our nonprofit or a dog already owned by the veteran. This partnership is the beginning of a transformative journey for both the veteran and the dog.
Comprehensive Training: Training includes private and group sessions held twice a week for a minimum of six to nine months. This thorough training process covers basic obedience, public outings, and tasks specific to the veteran’s PTSD or TBI symptoms.
Training Locations: We offer training in several locations across Arizona, including Phoenix, Tucson, Prescott, Sierra Vista, Flagstaff, and Yuma. While we currently do not offer training outside of Arizona, out-of-state veterans are welcome to apply and may need to travel or relocate for the program.
Types of Support Dogs
Based on the individual needs of the veteran, we offer training for one of two types of support dogs:
Service Dogs: These dogs are trained to assist with specific tasks related to the veteran’s disability. Service Dogs are allowed by law to enter public places such as workplaces, restaurants, and stores, according to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Therapeutic Companion Dogs / Emotional Support Animals: These dogs provide emotional support and are fully obedience trained. While they do not have the same public access rights as Service Dogs, they are permitted to live in non-pet-friendly environments.
Cost and Application Process
All placement and training fees for the Soldier’s Best Friend program are covered by charitable donations, meaning that eligible veterans incur no cost for these services. However, veterans are responsible for their own transportation and housing costs, if needed.
We are now accepting applications for veterans interested in being paired with a Service Dog or Therapeutic Companion Dog. To apply or to learn more about our program, please visit [Application Link] or contact us at [Contact Information].
How You Can Support Soldier’s Best Friend
Our program relies on the generosity of donors to continue its important work. Here’s how you can make a difference:
Donate: Your financial support helps fund the training and resources needed for our veterans and their canine companions. Every donation contributes to enhancing the quality of life for both veterans and dogs.
Volunteer: We welcome volunteers to assist with various aspects of our program, from training support to event coordination. Your time and skills can help us make a greater impact.
Spread the Word: Share the mission of Soldier’s Best Friend with your network. Raising awareness helps us connect with more veterans and supporters, expanding the reach of our efforts.
Join Us in Making a Difference
The Soldier’s Best Friend program represents our commitment to providing meaningful support to our veterans while addressing the critical issue of pet overpopulation. By participating in or supporting our program, you are helping to create a positive impact in the lives of veterans and giving deserving dogs a second chance at a loving home.
Thank you for your support and for joining us in this important mission. Together, we can honor our veterans and make a lasting difference in our community.