Trained Service Dogs For Veterans Eugene, OR
We provide custom-trained service dogs with lifetime support to Veterans in Eugene, OR at no cost.
Although military service is only for a short time, the mental and physical traumas suffered by Veterans can last a lifetime. Every Veteran is on a different journey. For some, each day can be a challenge. From the roughly 2.7 million Americans that have deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan since 2001, it's estimated that 1 in 5 is experiencing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). TBI, MST, PTSD and PTSD all have symptoms that make daily living difficult.
Veterans can rely on service dogs to provide support and help them live a better quality of life. PAVE exists to assist more Veterans in obtaining the benefits of service dogs. Our customized training and life-long support make a real and lasting difference in the lives and careers of Veterans. Are you a Veteran looking to regain independence? Contact us today.
Are PAVE Service Dogs Right For You?
Veteran with psychological or physical disabilities may experience a variety of chronic and complex symptoms, including anxiety, social difficulties, depression, and nightmares. Veterans can benefit from PAVE service dogs due to their ability to perform specialized tasks. From making simple tasks more accessible to providing essential support for significant challenges, PAVE service dogs have been shown to:
- Wake up Veterans during nightmares
- Increase your sleep quality and quantity
- Increase independence
- Positive social interactions can be increased
- Lower symptoms of PTSD and MST, anxiety, depression, and other mental disorders
- Reduce medication use
- Make the Veteran's life more enjoyable and encourage a positive outlook
- Physical assistance with everyday tasks
- Reduce hypervigilance
The Basic Criteria for a Service Dog
- You became disabled while serving the country. It doesn't necessarily have to be combat-related.
- You have received a medical diagnosis of PTSD, MST, TBI, or need physical help.
- Currently receiving treatment from a supportive provider.
- Can attend the training camp in Portland Metro, Oregon. You will be responsible for your transportation and accommodation.
- You can live in California, Idaho or Oregon.
- Can provide for the emotional, mental, and physical needs of a dog.
- Honorably discharged
PAVE does not have service dogs for the legally blind, hearing impaired or medical alert dogs (seizure and diabetic alert, for example). Please see ADI for organizations that specialize in these areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Service Dogs for Veterans
PAVE's mission, to train and provide service dog for Veterans suffering from physical and/or psychological disabilities is to do so.
PAVE does not place service dogs for legally blind, hearing impaired, or medical alert dogs (seizure, diabetic alert, for example). Please see ADI for organizations that specialize in these areas.
Yes, PAVE can be accredited to Assistance Dogs International. This premier international organization promotes excellence in all aspects of assistance dog acquisition, training, partnership, and partnerships. Only three Oregon organizations are currently accredited members.
PAVE, a 501(c),(3) non-profit organization, is funded through private donations, corporate donations and foundation funding.
It costs approximately $42,000 for each dog. It also includes support and training throughout the dog's life.
90% of every dollar goes to program expenses.
PAVE pays for the service dog, training and support, as well as the initial equipment and supplies worth over $1,500.
It takes approximately 1.5 - 2 years to train a service dog.
PAVE is a partner with Guide Dogs for the Blind, selected breeders, and rescues/shelters.
PAVE primarily trains Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, or Lab/Golden crosses.
These breeds are known for their ability, temperament, and work ethic.
Once the dogs have joined our program, we will start training!
PAVE dogs can be trained by professional, certified dog trainers that specialize in service dogs. Positive reinforcement is used.
PAVE assistance dogs can be trained to meet the needs of each Veteran. Some of the tasks they do depend on the Veteran, but could include:
- Turn lights on/off
- Close or open doors
- Get items
- Nightmare interrupt
- Redirect Veterans during a PTSD episode
- Grounding with DPT (Deep Pressure Therapy)
PAVE doesn't train or certify pets already owned by Veterans. Assistance Dogs International lists several organizations that offer this kind of training.
The following qualifications are required for the first time:
- Honorable discharge.
- Support provided by licensed health professionals for those with mental or physical disabilities.
- Service dogs require housing and financial stability.
Have another Question?
Email the PAVE team at [email protected], and we’ll answer all your questions about service dogs for Veterans.
What is PAVE?
Paws Assisting Veterans, (PAVE), is committed to providing Veterans the support and care they deserve. We proudly provide service dogs free of charge to Veterans. Veterans can lead a happy, independent life with the help of service dogs who have been trained to perform specific tasks.
Register for a PAVE Service Dog
Are you ready to regain your independence?
Our team will be there to help you from the beginning of your PAVE application to training camp with your service dog or companion. We provide personalized training and support for the lifetime of your dog. You can also access professional advice from our expert dog trainers. There are no charges for service dogs, training and ongoing support.
Start your journey to PAVE by completing this simple contact form.
We look forward to speaking with you.
Help Veterans Regain Their Freedom
Service dogs save lives. Help us to help Veterans by supporting PAVE. Your support and generosity go directly towards helping our Veterans and more donations mean more service dogs for Veterans in need.