We could never have begun to imagine the wonderful, strong bond that Thekla and Keely would forge.
Thekla was matched with Keely about a year and a half ago. Keely is Thekla’s best friend. She is loyal, she comforts when sad; shares joy; gives love unconditionally. Keely helps Thekla navigate socially when out and about. At home she is one of the family. Keely leads by example because she is so patient, easy going, kind, friendly.
She is pure love and she’s taught us all how to love more.
-Nina, Thekla, and Keely
Learn more about our social dog program and the individual tasks that might help your childa
Badger has brought light back to Josh's life. He's Josh's best friend, consistently and reliably by his side. Badger's goofy personality makes him a perfect fit--Badger is on point when he should be, but extra silly on free time, making him more relate-able & perfectly Badger.
On the day of this photo, Badger had perfect service dog behavior while apple picking - temptation all around in the form of his favorite treat, and he patiently waited until he had permission to snack.
Learn more about our social dog program and the individual tasks that might help your childa
Suzie has been a tremendous asset to the court. You broke the mold with her!
Suzie’s role as a Courthouse (Trauma) Facility Dog is unique, but she fits it well. She and I work with five judges in four courtrooms and countless kids and families. The people who named her, raised her, trained, and nurtured her have given an invaluable gift to people they will never know. This yellow-haired gift can be found in the jury box with a child, on the bench with the judge, in an interview with a child victim of human trafficking, in a holding cell of a detention facility comforting a teen, and in a waiting room with a family. No one can imagine this place
without her.
Learn more about our Service Dogs for the Classroom, Ministry, Therapy and Courthouse Facility
Willis has helped tremendously since he came onboard. I can tell countless stories, but one in particular stands out.
Willis was on the stand with a 13-year-old girl who had to testify against her father’s abuse. She bonded with Willis and it made it easy for her to talk with the Prosecutor and me about the sexual allegations.
Learn more about our Service Dogs for the Classroom, Ministry, Therapy and Courthouse Facility
The excellent training of a NEADS dog becomes the most valuable thing in a handler’s life. I know this whole experience has changed my life, and the lives of those I work with every day.
- Christine and Courthouse Facility Dog Ann
When I first found out that NEADS had a Service Dog for me, I will admit that I got excited, but when I was told his name was Skipper, I knew as a Navy Veteran this match was meant to be. After two weeks of training, I came home with Skipper, and although I knew my life would change, I had no idea how drastic that change would be.
I no longer dread going shopping. I know if I drop my keys or wallet, my partner will be there to pick them up. I no longer have to figure how to maneuver my scooter to press the door access button and to get in before it closes, because Skipper is always ready with a paw to push the button. At home, lights are turned on and off for me, and doors are opened and closed.
But the most important thing that Skipper has given me is the confidence to go out into the world and be a normal person again, leaving my handicap behind. It has only been three months with Skipper, but I cannot imagine life without him. People often talk about the love between an owner and their pet, but the love between a Service Dog and their human is the greatest love one can imagine.
- Mark and Skipper
Learn more about our Service Dogs and the individual tasks they can perform for their partner.
Having Edison by my side is the most reassuring thing in my life! I have gained so much independence as a result of having him.
- Sarah and Edison
Learn more about our Service Dogs and the individual tasks they can perform for their partner.
Dreams do come true. Life is complete with Clipper. He's given me the happiness I've never known. And he has really made my dreams come true. --Melissa
[Rave] gave me my independence. -- Joseph
I don't know where to start. I just have to thank the NEADS staff just for everything. Noonan has just changed my life.