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Message from Our Founder: Dear Reader,

Our journey began in 2008 when I encountered a veteran at Bogart’s Bone Appetit, where I conducted dog training classes. The veteran, donned in an Army shirt, was struggling to manage his dog, he was there to buy dog food. I approached him, offering my assistance. Initially hesitant, he was reassured when I offered my services free of charge. I explained that my father was a veteran and that I wished to use my dog training skills to assist him as a token of gratitude for his service. This encounter marked the inception of our program.

Through the relationships I built with the veterans I assisted, and the Southern Nevada VA doctors who recognized the positive impact of dogs on their patients, our program began to take shape. In 2010, the VA approved a pilot program for companion dogs as an alternative to psychiatric medication. This decision came after veterans testified before Congress about the life-saving benefits of dogs compared to the life-threatening effects of medication.

Under this pilot program, veterans could use their prescriptions to acquire a dog. However, the VA stipulated that veterans were responsible for their dogs’ care and required training. It was during this time that I discovered how other dog trainers were exploiting veterans, charging exorbitant fees for subpar training.

Veterans, unaware of the situation, were obtaining dogs from rescues, shelters, and breeders. Often, these dogs were either difficult to adopt out or were puppies with potential future issues. Having volunteered with rescues for years, I was familiar with these practices and decided to intervene.

I collaborated with two remarkable rescues, offering my dog training services to help dogs struggling in their new homes. In return, they provided me with dogs that had the potential to become service dogs. I also worked with shelters adopting dogs that were Red Listed that assessed well. I made it clear to the VA providers referring veterans to me that I would only assist if the veterans had a rescue dog or were willing to accept a rescue dog that I had assessed and trained. This approach led to the creation of our motto, ‘Saving Two Lives at a Time.’

In 2012, a severe car accident left me unable to continue my work for six months. During my recovery, I received numerous requests from veterans wanting to join our group or needing a companion dog. A poignant moment came when I watched an NBC broadcast featuring Marines in Afghanistan. One Marine expressed feeling forgotten, stating that they were merely existing. This statement resonated deeply with me, inspiring me to create a resource for our military personnel upon their return home.

Using a substantial insurance settlement, I filed for a 501 c 3 and funded the program to assist veterans in training or obtaining service dogs. Additionally, we began helping homeless and low-income veterans with dog and cat food and medical expenses for their pets. At this time, veterans were waiting up to three years for their claims to be processed. Their animals were often their only lifeline, and we were determined to ensure they could not only keep their animals but also provide for their needs.

Now in our 16th year in Nevada and 11th year as a nonprofit, we have expanded with chapters in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Our all-volunteer team works tirelessly every day to overcome life’s challenges and provide a resource that our military and veterans can rely on when needed.

Sincerely,

Milana Rice
Founder and Program Director
Certified Dog Trainer and Dog Behavior Specialist
Certified Veteran Advocate #794