The Maine Paws for Veterans Program

Most dogs are from shelters
and rescue organizations

Our Service Dog Program matches homeless dogs with veterans living with post-traumatic stress. Most of the dogs we work with are hand-selected from shelters and rescue organizations and paired with their veterans. In the event that the veteran has their own canine companion, we are happy to evaluate them as potential service dogs.

There is no cost to the veteran

There is no cost to the veteran, thanks to the generosity of our donors and partnerships within our community.

Classes are personalized

In this unique program, the pair train together enriching both lives, while building peer relationships with others in the training class.

Apply Online

How it works.

  1. Application: To complete the online application we need a copy of your DD214, Therapist Referral Letter, Authorization to Release Confidential Information (Maine Paws for Veterans and VA Release of Information), Veteran/Canine Support System, and if applicable – Landlord, Employer, Veterinarian Release. It is a program requirement that an applicant has a service-connected PTSD diagnoses.
  2. Background Check: Every Applicant must agree to a Background Check. If the Background Check is favorable, the Applicant will move forward in the process.
  3. Canine Evaluation: All dogs must pass a Canine Evaluation.
  4. Mental Health Interview: Each Applicant will be interview by a member of our Mental Health Team.
  5. Home Visit: Home visits are scheduled after the completion of the Interview process.
  6. Program Approval: At the successful completion of all the above steps, an Applicant will be approved to begin the Service Dog Training Program.
  7. Orientation: Attendance at the Orientation is mandatory, as it explains in detail the Service Dog Training Program.


Online Application
Our Graduates

In their own words

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