NEADS Programs
Connecting in a Time of Isolation
When Covid-19 hit, we knew that connecting with as many clients as possible was important, particularly the veterans with PTSD in our Trauma Assistance Dog (TAD) program. Talking to these veterans, it was apparent that the isolation and stresses of quarantine, stay-at-home orders, and social distancing brought on by the pandemic was getting to them…
Read MoreVA Service Dog Benefits
If you are a veteran interested in applying for a Service Dog, you are eligible to apply for the VA Service Dog Benefit if the reason you have the Service Dog is service-connected. The Service Dog must also be provided to you by a fully accredited organization (as NEADS is) through Assistance Dogs International (ADI) for PTSD, Hearing, and Physical Service Dogs, or International Guide Dog Federation for Guide Dogs.
Read MoreNEADS – Here for Veterans
A message from NEADS Program Development Administrator to all our veteran clients and applicants.
Read MoreIf Vegas Could Talk
When Harvard University closed its campus in mid-March, Full-Time Puppy Raiser and Harvard student Amanda had to return home. Vegas is now living with NEADS Trainer Magen Blake, where he is continuing the work he started with Amanda. Amanda wrote Vegas a parting letter, and we’ve written what we imagine would be his reply if he could talk.
Read MoreFun and Games
Enrichment is really important for all the NEADS puppies and dogs that we care for in the Canine Center and Early Learning Center. It provides mental stimulation and keeps the dogs happy. Now more than ever, dogs need to be kept busy…
Read MoreBehind the Scenes: Keeping the Dogs Fed
Twice a month, NEADS staff delivers dog food for our pups in prison, typically bringing a 2-week supply at a time. We have dogs in seven prisons, and they each receive anywhere from 5 bags to 15, depending on the program. That’s a lot of dog food – approximately 80 bags per month.
Read MoreWhat to Look for in a Service Dog for Veterans Program
Here are some key features to look for when evaluating a Service Dog for Veterans program and how the NEADS programs measure up.
Read MoreBuilding Community at NEADS with Quilts of Valor and Blue Star Mothers
NEADS is proud of its partnership with three organizations who are integral to the NEADS community: the Blue Star Mothers of Leominster and Worcester, and Quilts of Valor. The Blue…
Read MoreThe History of NEADS Service Dogs for Veterans Programs
In May of 2006, NEADS was invited to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center outside Washington, D.C. to give a presentation about the many skills and tasks that our dogs…
Read MorePhyllis and Service Dog for Hearing Scout
I had been considering applying for a Service Dog but one day, about 12 years ago, it became very evident that I shouldn’t put it off. While I was asleep…
Read MoreTamela and Assistance Dog for the Courthouse Salem
Tamela is the Victim Witness Coordinator for Bannock County, Idaho, handling all cases that involve a victim (sexual assault, stabbing, aggravated battery). She was matched with Salem in 2018. Salem…
Read MoreParker and Service Dog for a Child Evers
As is typical of many children with autism, 8-year-old Parker had problems making friends, had bad reactions when upset, and had difficulty following directions. His parents were always looking for…
Read MoreJohn and Service Dog DJ
When I was in my mid-20s, I met someone with a Service Dog, and the more time I spent with her, the more I knew that some day a dog…
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