Research by Purdue University has shown that service dogs can help reduce hyper-vigilance, night tremors, outbursts of anger and cortisol levels experienced by veterans. These are the primary symptoms of PTSD perpetuating the epidemic. Most service dog organizations have no breeding program, often leaving no choice but to train dogs obtained from shelters. On average, only 1 out of 12 dogs shelter dogs becomes a success service dog, contributing to waiting periods of up to three years.
Thousands of veterans come home from the battlefield disabled either physically or mentally. With more than 600 veterans taking their own lives per month—over 7,000 annually—veteran suicide is an epidemic. One beacon of hope however, is the positive impact of a service dog.
NEARLY 75% of Project 2 Heal puppies donated to partner organizations are successfully placed with a veteran.
22 VETERANS PER DAY
TAKE THEIR OWN LIVES.
HELPING VETERANS BUILD A NEW LIFE.
Veterans returning from combat often struggle resuming the life they previously considered normal. Along with any physical challenges now experienced, combat veterans may also struggle with hindering symptoms of PTSD. Service dogs can provide a grounding relationship for veterans, helping to lead them out of stressful public situations when the dog picks up physical cues like fidgeting that indicate the veteran is experiencing a flashback or anxiety attack.
CARING FOR A SERVICE DOG GIVES VETERANS A NEW MISSION, HELPING ESTABLISH INDEPENDENCE AND BUILD A NEW LIFE.
Monthly donors—which we call, "Healing Pawtners"—are the foundation of Project 2 Heal and our mission of reducing the cost and time it takes to place a service dog with a person in need. We're the only nonprofit in the country dedicated to breeding, nurturing, and donating Labrador Retriever puppies to become service dogs for veterans, children with special needs, and adults with disabilities. Our work can change—and in some cases, save—lives of people in need.
Through your monthly donation of $10, $30, $50 or $100, you provide Project 2 Heal with a consistent and reliable source of funding to allow us to meet our mission.
As a Healing Pawtner You'll Enjoy:
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Knowledge that your donation will be immediately put to work.
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Monthly "Pup-Dates" via email.
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Opportunity to tour and visit our facility.
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Access to playtime with our service puppies in training.
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Car magnet to display and show your support.
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Ability to change or suspend your donation at any time.
MAKE A DONATION THAT CAN SAVE LIVES.
THE IMPACT OF SERVICE DOGS
Fully trained service dogs can literally transform lives.