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GIVE THEM BOTH A

PURPOSE

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VA Dogs is a nonprofit in Kerrville, Texas dedicated to gifting trained rescue dogs to disabled Texas Veterans and restoring purpose for both dog and vet.

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trained rescue dogs provided each year

10

$25K

to train a single dog and their intended recipient

6

months to
train a dog

70

dogs provided since 2013 to Texas Veterans

THE NEED

The Veterans we serve are suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), and physical disabilities—making it a challenge to participate in social activities.

We believe that our Veterans deserve to enjoy little things like being out in public and partaking in events that tend to gather large crowds.

Service dogs provide tremendous relief to Veterans who have learned to avoid these “normal” situations.

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A man sitting on a mobility scooter interacts with a black service dog wearing a red vest indoors, while a woman stands nearby smiling. Behind them are several flags and framed photos on the walls. The room contains rows of empty chairs.

SERVICE DOGS CAN HELP:

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• Pulling a wheelchair
• Picking up (retrieving) items
• Support in the case of falls
• Providing a “brace” to stand or sit
• And many other tasks

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HOW IT WORKS

Because of the great cost involved in training dogs AND their intended recipients, we screen applicants very carefully to inform our selection.

1

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If it is determined that a Texas Veteran will be a good steward, we will match them with a dog that suits their personality & needs.

2

3

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We will spend three to four weekends training the recipient on how to positively interact with and care for their new service dog.

4

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Recipients graduate in a ‘Freedom Day’ ceremony where they are presented with their new service dog, a certificate, and ID cards.

Two men standing in front of a large tree with carved artwork, accompanied by a black dog, in a grassy outdoor setting.
Man in a blue shirt and cap petting a service dog with a red vest outdoors.
A yellow Labrador Retriever resting its head on a person's lap next to a glass table, with a stack of papers and water bottles visible.
Elderly man riding a vintage motorcycle with a sidecar, accompanied by a dog wearing goggles, outdoor setting.

TESTIMONIALS

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Gus & Betty Boop
Gus & Betty Boop

“Betty Boop” has been a wonderful life-changing experience for the whole family. If I could describe our relationship in two words, it would be: “magical connection”. This is because after only a few months together we were able to communicate with each other with just looks and signs. 

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Abel & Mack
Abel & Mack

Research shows, Mack is expanding my life span! When humans worry, you get sick. The depression sets in, it contributes to more illness. Mack clears away that space so I can be me and handle business. I can look at everything in a positive manner all awhile get that smile back on my face I had lost a long time ago. I have a better perspective on life and Mack makes it complete.

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Andrew A. Parra & Bonnie
Andrew A. Parra & Bonnie

In summary, Bonnie and I have formed a bond that is so close the training has come as second nature. I believe Bonnie obeys because she does not want to disappoint me. Nevertheless the reason she has had a life-changing impact on the quality of my life that I would not trade for anything. Thank you so much to the two organizations and staff that helped me get to this point.

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UNWAVERING LOYALTY

Through their dedication and companionship, service dogs become trusted allies on the journey toward healing and recovery.

Beyond practical assistance, the bond between a Veteran and their service dog is deeply therapeutic. Dogs have a remarkable ability to sense and respond to their handler's emotions, offering a source of comfort and companionship that can alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Know of a deserving Vet in Texas? Please help us spread the word.

Black service dog wearing a red vest labeled "Service Dog at Work, Do Not Distract."
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Betty Boop

Graduation Date: 10/29/2023
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A N S W E R T H E C A L L

WE NEED YOUR HELP

Every year, the demand for Veteran service dogs continues to grow and the financial burden along with it. Donate today to aid us in our mission and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with us in support.