How It Started
New Life K9s is a non-profit organization that provides service dogs free of charge to Veterans and First Responders with PTSD. In 2014, an employee of Thousand Hills Pet Resort, Monica, started training dogs with two Alpha Academy students as a new work experience opportunity. She had prior education and experience training service dogs and her diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis made her very excited about providing service dogs for those in need. One of the founders, Jack, had a history working in law enforcement and emergency medical services so he had prior knowledge of the need for service dogs for veterans with PTSD. The startling statistic that more than 22 veterans commit suicide every day showed us who we needed to provide these service dogs to. This side project was the genesis of New Life K9s.
What We Do
Service Dog Training
At New Life K9s, we provide service dogs to Veterans and First Responders with PTSD at no cost to them. Our dogs are trained through a rehabilitation program at California Men's Colony in San Luis Obispo, California, where they receive obedience training, socialization, and advanced skills such as retrieving medication and responding to panic attacks.
Supporting Our Heroes
Our mission is to improve the lives of those who have served our country and communities by providing highly trained service dogs. We also strive to raise awareness about the benefits of service dogs and the challenges faced by Veterans and First Responders with PTSD.
Building A Community
We believe that by providing free service dogs, we can help Veterans and First Responders lead more independent and fulfilling lives. We also aim to create a community of support for these heroes and their families.
