“Paws of Freedom” is grounded in the belief that every veteran deserves the freedom to live a full and independent life. This program is designed to make that belief a reality by offering veterans the companionship and support of a dedicated service dog, while simultaneously rescuing dogs from overcrowded shelters. Each dog in our program is given a new purpose and a second chance to thrive as they embark on a journey to become a life-changing partner for a veteran.

 The success of the “Paws of Freedom” program is built on the strong partnership between Feral Cat Warriors and Risen Star Kennel (RSK), a family-owned and veteran-operated training facility. Under the expert guidance of RSK, veterans will actively participate in the training process, working alongside professional trainers to prepare their service dog for the vital role it will play in their life.
 
This hands-on training is crucial because it allows the veteran and the dog to develop a strong, trusting relationship. The dog learns to understand the unique needs of their veteran, while the veteran gains confidence in their ability to work with and rely on their K9 partner. Together, they form an unbreakable bond that is essential for the dog’s success in supporting the veteran’s specific needs.

Personalized Matching

One of the key elements of the “Paws of Freedom” program is the personalized matching process. Our dedicated veteran team, in collaboration with the experts at RSK, carefully selects a dog that aligns with the individual requirements of each veteran. This personalized approach ensures that the dog is not only capable of performing the necessary tasks but also fits seamlessly into the veteran’s lifestyle, providing companionship, support, and unconditional love.

“Paws of Freedom” is not just about training service dogs; it’s about offering a lifeline to both veterans and dogs. Many of the dogs in our program come from overcrowded shelters, where their futures were uncertain. Through “Paws of Freedom,” these dogs are given a new lease on life, transforming from homeless pets into highly trained service animals that make a profound difference in the lives of their veteran companions.

For veterans, the program represents freedom—freedom from the limitations imposed by their disabilities, freedom from the isolation that often accompanies their experiences, and the freedom to live a more fulfilling life with the unwavering support of their service dog.

Current Dogs in Training