Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Each day, veterans die by suicide which is both disturbing and preventable. In many cases veterans are on a number of prescription medications with varying degrees of success in helping to cope with things such as PTSD and TBI. Research has proven that assistance/service dogs can help veterans cope in a dramatic and meaningful way.
Service animals are considered medical equipment and are recognized by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division. You can read the ADA's brief description of Service Animal Rights here.
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 located in Queensbury, NY. And, we do our best to place dogs with veterans in the eastern quadrant of NY state in an effort to help them cope with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury.
About Our Program: Warriors & Service Dogs
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 or service dog. Most veterans that come into the program are referred to us by our local VA, who supports our program. We do require a letter from the veteran's treating provider stating that a emotional support or service dog would be beneficial and that they feel the dog would live in a safe environment with the veteran.
`Once contact is made with the veteran, they fill out an application, and we conduct a personal interview and home visit. If all goes well during that process a dog is sought and we assist in placing a dog with the veteran.
What kind of dogs does Woofs For Warriors provide?
We provide dogs from a number of different sources to include animal shelters, dog rescue organizations, re-homed dogs, unwanted dogs dropped off with veterinarians, and donated dogs. All dogs are checked medically, fostered and evaluated before entering our program. NOTE: The dogs in our program do not come to the the veteran as a trained emotional support or service dog. Training will be required and it is expected that the vet is actively involved in the training process with our training staff. We believe in building the powerful bond that is built between veteran and their dogs.
Who is eligible to apply for the program?
Any veteran with a verified clinical diagnosis of PTSD, or TBI who wants to participate and whose licensed mental health professional feels he/she may benefit from the company of an emotional support or service dog.
How much does the program cost?
There is no cost to the veteran for the dog or the training. The objective is for the veteran and the dog to become a happy, productive TEAM.
Is there a wait list?
At this time there is not a wait list. However, it may take a few months to find the dog that best matches the individual. Wait list time can also change at any time depending upon the number of veterans seeking a dog and the dogs we have available to pair with veterans.
What breeds are used in the program?
Our dogs are rescued from shelters and donated by the public; we do not use specific breeds. Due to insurance restrictions and state sanctions we are unable to use breeds including Pit Bulls. We also try to match veterans with their preferences but do not guarantee and breed or type. We match based on temperament most befitting to an assistance dog.
Will I be able to take my dog into a VA hospital or facility?
Yes.
Donations
Can I donate online?
Can I mail in 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?
Contact Cathy Reichen - President of Adoption and Training at hammerk98@aol.com
Contact Chris Argento - Vice President of Adoption and Training at cargento@aol.com