Working Dogs For Vets’ No Veteran Left Behind program empowers veterans to train their own service dogs with hands‑on mentorship from WDFV‑certified trainers and a network of volunteer K9 experts. Veterans receive step‑by‑step training plans, regular volunteer check‑ins, ID badges, ADA guidance, and task training for needs like medication alerts, crowd buffering, and grounding during distress. When teams graduate, they join a pay‑it‑forward community—helping new teams train together in local parks—so healing happens when heroes help heroes.
James Berry and Drako — Drako is a rescue who became James’s partner and, at times, his lifeline. With WDFV’s mentorship, Drako learned public access skills and tasks that help James stay grounded and safe.
“Drako is a rescue from a local shelter. He quickly became my partner and, at times, my lifeline. As an Army combat veteran living with PTSD and service-related health issues, daily life can be overwhelming. From the moment Drako and I met, we had an immediate and powerful connection. He is incredibly attentive and focused on me, constantly tuned in to my emotions. One impactful action Drako does is create a barrier between me and others when I feel overwhelmed, giving me the space I need to stay grounded. He can also sense when I need help and will alert my family if I am in distress.
Thanks to Working Dogs For Vets, Drako has received essential training and socialization that continue to support both his growth and my well-being. Their guidance has been instrumental in helping him become the reliable and intuitive service dog I depend on every day.” — Army Veteran James Berry
Why your gift matters
Your donation keeps trainers available to mentor veteran/dog teams, funds volunteer coordination and training materials, covers veterinary care and testing, and helps scale a nationwide volunteer network so no veteran is left behind. Every dollar helps a veteran gain independence, connection, and daily safety.
Suggested impact tiers
• $25 — One volunteer check‑in and training support for a team
• $75 — Training guides and ID badges for one veteran/dog team
• $250 — Socialization and public‑access training session for one dog
• $750 — Veterinary care and supplies for an in‑training dog
• $2,500 — Partial support to mentor and certify a veteran/dog team
• $6,000 — Sponsor full Owner‑Trained pathway for one team (start to graduation)