Support Doesn’t Always Have to Come in Human Form
For many veterans, the physical and psychological wounds of war can and do run deep and have left many with a range of disabilities. There is no shortage of treatments available to help veterans manage the symptoms of their pain, but sometimes, just being able to live independently feels overwhelming. That’s where service dogs can change everything.
Service dogs provide a unique kind of healing and empowerment, one rooted in trust, routine, and unconditional companionship that:
- Lowers stress and anxiety
- Reduces symptoms of PTSD and depression
- Improves emotional regulation and sleep
- Encourages movement, responsibility, and connection
- Provides confidence in navigating public spaces
Service Dogs
We aim to assist and empower veterans to live with dignity and independence. One way we do that is by investing in the training dogs that work to support the unique physical and emotional needs of severely disabled veterans. From assisting with tasks around the home to recognizing when a veteran is experiencing a psychological event, specially trained service dogs can make all the difference in the quality of life for many veterans.
The specialized training of these dogs is expensive and takes time. The cost can range from $60,000 to $80,000 per dog, and training can take up to two years!
Over the years, we have provided numerous grants for the professional training of service dogs. This includes providing funding for a service dog to be specifically trained to the needs of combat-wounded veterans to help them enjoy greater physical and emotional independence.
Please help us do more!
Robotic Pets
Robotic therapy pets offer a powerful alternative for veterans who may not be able to care for a live animal due to physical, financial, or housing limitations.
These lifelike companions provide soothing interaction, especially for veterans facing:
- Memory issues or cognitive decline
- Loneliness or emotional withdrawal
- Limited mobility or independent living situations
We’re proud to be partners in programs like Capital Caring Health’s Robotic Pets initiative, and are actively seeking more partnerships in this growing field.
Capital Caring Health sells robotic companion pets, and for every one sold, they donate to the Purple Heart Foundation. You can buy one for yourself and a family member or friend, or you can purchase one to donate to a veteran.
Join us in Supporting Our Veterans
Learn more about becoming a Purple Heart Foundation Veteran Resource Center partner:
Get the conversation started by letting us know you’re interested in becoming a partner:
Whether it’s a car, clothing, spare change, or a one-time gift,
EVERY DONATION HELPS A VETERAN.
