Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How Does the Woofs for Warriors Program Work?
Each day, veterans die by suicide which is both disturbing and preventable.
“Every dog owner knows there are many benefits to having a dog, from getting themselves out for exercise to receiving loyal companionship. However, for some people with mental or emotional conditions, the presence of a dog is critical to their ability to function normally on a daily basis. The pet provides emotional support and comfort that helps them deal with challenges that might otherwise compromise their quality of life. These pets are known as emotional support animals (ESAs).
...the pet needs to be prescribed by a licensed mental health professional to a person with a disabling mental illness. A therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist must determine that the presence of the animal is needed for the mental health of the patient. For example, owning a pet might ease a person’s anxiety or give them a focus in life.” (American Kennel Club)
Cats are beneficial too !
Woofs for Warriors, Inc. is funded 100% from donations and fundraisers. Ability to provide services may be limited due to availability of funds.
Is Woofs For Warriors a nonprofit?
Yes, Woofs for Warriors is a nonprofit organization located in Queensbury, New York. Woofs For Warriors is a public charity exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Where is Woofs For Warriors located?
Woofs For Warriors is headquartered in Queensbury, NY. And we do our best to support place dogs with veterans in Warren, Washington and Saratoga Counties.
About Our Program
How Does the Woofs For Warriors Program Work?
The program is available to any veteran who feels their life would benefit from the company of an emotional support animal (ESA). We do require a letter from the veteran's treating provider stating that an emotional support animal would be beneficial and they would live in a safe environment with the veteran.
Once contact is made with the veteran, they fill out our on-line application (see About in website menu). The veteran is responsible for choosing a dog or cat that best fits their lifestyle, home environment, and personality from a pet adoption agency that practices pre-adoption fostering. (Fostering n/a for cats.)
The veteran will need to comply with any interview or approval process required by the pet adoption agency.
The veteran is required to attend a brief orientation, including but not limited to, information about scheduling training, rights/restrictions of ESA vs. service animals, veterinary care and veterinary care program.
Dog adoptions only – the veteran must commit to attending and completing basic obedience classes that will prepare them to pass the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification test. It would be good practice to teach your ESA dog above average public manners and reinforce those manners regularly. Set a good example!
- Woofs will arrange for this training at no cost to the veteran.
- More advanced training can be requested if needed, and if approved by Woofs for Warriors, Inc., will be at no cost to the veteran.
Who is eligible to apply for the program?
Any veteran whose licensed mental/medical health professional feels he/she may benefit from the company of an emotional support animal.
How much does the program cost?
There is no cost to the veteran for adoption fees or the training
Woofs will pay the adoption fees directly to the adoption agency.
The veteran is responsible for any post-adoption veterinary expenses except as outlined in the “Veterinary Care” tab in the About Menu.
What breeds are used in the program?
Veterans should confirm with their landlord, or homeowners or renters insurance company to ensure their breed of choice would not exclude them from residency or coverage. See listing on Adoption Information tab for restrictions.
Will I be able to take my companion or ESA dog into a VA hospital or facility?
No. Only service dogs trained to perform a specific task are allowed.
Donations
Can I donate online?
Yes, you can donate here.
Can I mail my donation?
Yes, we gratefully accept donations via regular mail. Please mail your donations to:
Woofs For Warriors
PO Box 2466
Glens Falls, NY 12801
Is my contribution deductible?
Contributions made to Woofs For Warriors are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law. Please check with your personal tax advisor regarding the deductibility of your contribution.
How can I get more information about Woofs for Warriors?
Email woofsforwarriors@gmail.com
Call 518.290.8941 (call or text)
Please note that Woofs is staffed wholly by volunteers who, unfortunately, are not available full-time. We will respond to inquiries within 48 hours.
