Service Dog Training

Our Program

Dog Rescue

Most of the dogs that go through our program are rescued from adoption agencies, shelters, and homes across the United States. We strive to improve the lives of our Service Dogs and find the training process that offers them an environment to thrive in. We are always looking for new recruits to offer a new and improved life.

Service Dog Training Program

We work with those that take part in the training process. We help to select appropriate dogs and immediately place them with their human companion, and group classes start within a week of this placement. The bond that is created during the training process is crucial and will form a relationship that can immensely help with your healing and treatment.

Service Dog Matching

We work closely with PTSD and TBI Medical Doctors, therapists and clinicians to find the core pain points and work on how a Service Dog can best fit into a role in your life. Our matching process relies not only on the bond formed between you and your companion but also has an eleven-point selection screening and is truly one of a kind. Our program gives you the structure and relationship that you need to work towards an improved life.

Benefits of our Service Dog Program

The Operation Overwatch Service Dog program is unlike any other in that we truly believe in “Healing at Both Ends of the Leash™”, where we rescue dogs and give them purpose, work and a second chance at life, and we are helping those unselfish heroes that are also in need of assistance and a new chance at getting the most out of life. The bond that is formed in our program will play a crucial role in your healing process. Our program works with you for the long-term goals, ensuring your treatment continues to improve.

Do I have to be a veteran to work with your organization? No, while our primary focus has been veterans and first responders, we have heard the calls from others that have also experienced PTSD, TBI, anxiety, environmental stressors and have needs for mobility assistance.

What does it cost? Our services do not cost anything other than a commitment to be at weekly training.  Our program is designed to help local Service Dog recipients, however we do not put a distance requirement on it as we have had clients willing to drive over four hours weekly for their training.  Each person’s situation and tolerances vary.

What can a Service Dog do to help me? All behaviors that we train the dog to do are based on your individual symptomology. People are different, as are their needs. Anywhere from emotional balance, bracing, mobility assistance needs, prosthetic retrieval, activating light switches, etc. Dogs can serve a multitude of needs!

Can I be specific with the sex or breed of my Service Dog? We try to accommodate this request as much as possible. The more specific the request, the longer it can take to find the right dog.

What is the process for obtaining a dog through Operation Overwatch? First, you fill out an application form, and then upon receipt of that, we will set up an initial phone call so we can get a more precise idea of how we can help you. Then, we begin looking for your new best friend! Once we find an appropriate dog, we then pair you up and begin weekly training in the next available group class.  Upon completion of training, a certification of training, ID card, veterinarian records, Service Dog vest and equipment are issued and you take your first steps back home to your new life!

Can you train a dog I already own? We certainly can after we have evaluated the dog for social and environmental stability, nerves and temperament.

What age does my canine have to be to begin the training? Proper training of any dog start early! While a puppy is typically not certified as a Service Dog until an age of maturity is reached and specific skills are mastered, the foundation for proper socialization, the concepts of learning, environmental awareness and many other life skills can start right away. Ask about our Puppy Preschool program!