Heartwarming stories are unfolding in our Sammamish community. A remarkable organization called PAVE (Paws Assisting Veterans) is making a significant difference in the lives of local veterans. Their mission is to provide specially trained service dogs to veterans who are dealing with physical or psychological challenges, and they offer these incredible companions completely free of charge. This isn’t just about getting a dog; it’s about offering a pathway to greater independence, healing, and a renewed sense of purpose for those who have served our country.
PAVE’s commitment extends far beyond the initial placement of a service dog. They understand that a strong partnership requires ongoing support, which is why they provide lifetime assistance to both the veteran and their canine partner. This thorough approach ensures that the veteran receives the maximum benefit from their service dog, fostering a secure and supportive environment for everyone involved. It’s a testament to their dedication to honoring our veterans and empowering them to live more fulfilling lives.
The dogs trained by PAVE undergo a rigorous and thorough program designed to meet the specific needs of each veteran. While they don’t train for blindness, hearing impairments, or medical alerts, they excel in tasks that mitigate various physical and psychological disabilities. This can include actions like turning lights on and off, closing doors, retrieving dropped items, and providing comfort during nightmares or PTSD episodes through techniques like deep pressure therapy. These highly skilled canines are primarily Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, or mixes of the two, chosen for their excellent temperament and trainability.
PAVE’s commitment to its veterans is truly lifelong. Once a veteran is matched with a service dog, the support doesn’t end. The organization provides initial equipment and supplies, valued at over $1,500, and covers the entire cost of raising and training the dog, which amounts to approximately $42,000 per animal. This remarkable dedication ensures veterans have no financial burden for their service animal. Furthermore, PAVE offers continuous follow-up training and support for the entire lifespan of the dog, ensuring the partnership remains strong and effective.
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