Paws for Purple Hearts

Paws for Purple Hearts improves the lives of America’s Warriors (Veterans and active duty service members) facing mobility challenges and trauma-related conditions such as Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) by providing the highest quality assistance dogs and canine-assisted therapeutic programs; and by building public awareness about the important role dogs play in helping Warriors along the road to recovery.

Our groundbreaking Canine-Assisted Warrior Therapy® program is at the heart of our organization. Through this unique therapeutic intervention, we facilitate positive, meaningful interactions between our Service Dogs-In-Training and our Warriors. These sessions provide invaluable support, both mentally and physically, to our participants. They help reduce symptoms of trauma-related conditions, ease anxiety, improve sleep, and decrease the reliance on pain medication.

But our impact doesn't stop there. Each of our dogs touches countless lives through Social Therapy, events, presentations, and more. Our dogs are not just assistance animals; they are ambassadors of hope and healing.

Service Dogs are highly trained canines that assist individuals with disabilities in various aspects of their daily lives. These dogs are trained to perform specific tasks that mitigate the challenges faced by their handlers. At Paws for Purple Hearts, we understand the unique needs of our Warriors, and we provide Service Dogs tailored to their individual mobility and trauma-related conditions. These dogs empower our Veterans and active-duty service members to regain independence, confidence, and a sense of purpose.

Facility Dogs are experts in providing comfort, support, and companionship in institutional settings. These dogs are often placed in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and other facilities where they work alongside healthcare professionals to enhance therapy and healing. Paws for Purple Hearts recognizes the importance of facility dogs in the recovery process. Our Facility Dogs bring comfort and emotional support to our Warriors during their therapeutic sessions, contributing significantly to their overall well-being.

Founded in 2006, Paws for Purple Hearts has its roots deeply embedded in the pioneering work of Dr. Bonita Bergin, the inventor of the Service Dog concept and the founder of Bergin College of Canine Studies. Dr. Bergin's dedication to understanding the human-canine bond and its potential to heal and empower led to the creation of Paws for Purple Hearts.

Inspired by Dr. Bergin's vision, we became the world's first and only organization dedicated exclusively to providing Service Dogs to wounded Veterans and Active Duty Service Members. Over the years, our work has evolved and expanded, but our commitment to improving the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for our nation remains steadfast. Today, Paws for Purple Hearts has six facilities across the United States and has directly improved over 10,000 lives.

Join Us in Making a Difference!

At Paws for Purple Hearts, we believe in the power of service. While our dogs are in training to become Assistance Dogs, they actively participate in the recovery process of the Warriors they work with. We invite you to join us in this life-changing journey.

Your support can help fund the training of Service Dogs, preparing them to change the lives of their forever Warriors. By donating to Paws for Purple Hearts, you are not only supporting Veterans and Active-Duty Service Members but also contributing to a cause that strengthens communities and spreads hope.

Together, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those who have served our nation with courage and dedication. We invite you to explore our website at pawsforpurplehearts.org. There, you can learn more about our mission and the impactful initiatives we undertake across San Diego County. Your support is greatly appreciated! Thank you!