Support a Hero, Fund a Service Dog

Several disabled veterans will soon be able to improve the quality of their lives, physically, emotionally, and mentally, with the gift of a well-trained service dog companion. A good service dog is not easily attainable or affordable for many disabled veterans who could greatly benefit from such a dog. Fortunately, three deserving disabled veterans will soon receive a dog specifically trained for their needs through our nonprofits, VAlanthropy (VAL) and Hidden Wounds (HW). This will not be possible without your generous donations:

Breeder Gary Blinkey, owner of GoldendoodlepuppiesSC, generously donated three Goldendoodle puppies to this effort. Michael Duncan, owner of Southern Edge K9, Has agreed to train the puppies.

Hidden Wounds Executive Director Lance Newman, a disabled veteran, knows firsthand how his faithful service dog Flash improves his daily life. Michael Duncan, the trainer who trained Flash, is now training the three young Goldendoodles. Service dogs like Flash provide veterans with moral injury from combat unwavering companionship and emotional support, helping to alleviate feelings of guilt, isolation, and distress. Their presence fosters a sense of purpose and stability, empowering veterans to rebuild trust, regain confidence, and improve overall mental well-being. Newman stated, "Flash has become my best friend! Soon, the three Goldendoodle puppies will be trained service dog companions with unique skills matched to individual veterans' needs and will help them cope with their disabilities."

Tom Lash, director of VAlanthropy, said, "I've witnessed the incredible difference Flash has made in Lance's life. When we received the three puppy donation offers, we immediately agreed to have them trained and to offer them for service. We began the application process immediately to deliver the puppies to three carefully screened veterans whose needs and personalities match the dogs.'