There is an outfit called Leashes of Valor (LoV) which operates out of Virginia, and has satellite programs in some states – they are getting set up in Montana, as far as a presence. Their intent is to pair up two Montana disabled veterans with service dogs by the end of October. Here is the deal:
+ Leashes of Valor looks to be legitimate.
+ The service dogs are trained specifically for PTSD/MST/TBI victims (no other types of disabilities).
+ The dogs are “free.” Maintenance and care of the dog, once living with the veteran, are the veteran’s responsibility.
+ A 26-page questionnaire must be filled out by the veteran and sent to LoV. Leashes of Valor then does their best to match up the person’s needs and circumstances with one of their dogs. Not every applicant will be provided a dog.
+ Leashes of Valor will pay for the travel/lodging for the veteran to travel to Virginia and stay at their ranch for THREE WEEKS of training/”getting to know each” time with the dog and staff.
+ The relationship between the veteran (who receives a dog) and the LoV is lifetime. Reportedly, one veteran client who received a dog from them received another one after the first one passed away.
+ The people that run LoV are veterans.
+ You might want to check out their website.
Anyway – some names are needed in the near future, and if you have any veterans you think would qualify/need a service dog of this nature – please contact him/her and find out if he/she is willing to be part of this program. If so, then send the name to me (with contact info) and it will be forwarded to LoV.
I don’t have any more specifics at this point, will provide them as I get them.
