Rescuing Dogs. Empowering Veterans. Strengthening Families.
At Veteran Companion Animal Services (VCAS), we believe healing happens through connection. Many veterans return home carrying invisible wounds, searching for renewed purpose, structure, and belonging. At the same time, thousands of loving rescue dogs wait in shelters for a second chance.
Our programs unite these two needs into one life-changing solution. Through thoughtfully designed training, placement, and community support, VCAS pairs veterans with rescue dogs and surrounds them with resources that foster healing, confidence, and long-term success.
Whether you are a veteran exploring participation or a supporter wanting to understand our impact, we invite you to learn how each program changes lives — for veterans, their families, and the dogs who rescue them in return.
Rescue Dog Placement Program
What the Program Includes
Our placement program begins by getting to know each veteran personally — their lifestyle, family dynamics, living environment, and personal goals. Meanwhile, we partner with trusted shelter organizations to identify rescue dogs with the temperament and potential to thrive as companion animals.
Once matched, the veteran receives:
- A fully vetted rescue dog
- All food, supplies, and veterinary care covered for the first year
- Seven weeks of professional obedience training
- Ongoing support from VCAS staff and volunteers
There is no cost to the veteran.
Impact
For Veterans:
A companion dog provides daily structure, motivation, emotional grounding, and unconditional companionship. Many veterans report reduced anxiety, improved sleep, increased social connection, and a renewed sense of responsibility and purpose.
For Families:
The benefits extend beyond the veteran. Families often experience improved communication, reduced stress at home, and a shared sense of joy and stability that grows around caring for their new companion.
For Rescue Dogs:
Each placement saves a life. Dogs that once faced uncertain futures in shelters now find permanent loving homes where they are cherished family members with purpose of their own.
Frontline Dog Training Program
What the Program Includes
The Frontline Dog Training Program is a seven-week obedience course taught by professional trainers. Classes are open — at no cost — to all veterans and military families who currently own a dog, whether or not they are part of the placement program.
Veterans attend training sessions with their dogs, learning:
- Basic obedience and behavioral skills
- Effective communication techniques
- Confidence-building leadership strategies
- Practical tools to strengthen the human–animal bond
Impact
For Veterans:
Training provides confidence, patience, and a sense of accomplishment. Many veterans discover that working with their dog helps manage stress, improve focus, and rebuild trust — both with their pet and within themselves.
For Families:
A well-trained dog creates a calmer home environment. Families often report stronger household routines, reduced behavioral challenges, and shared pride in completing the course together.
For Dogs:
Dogs gain structure, socialization, and trust — making them happier companions and, in many cases, better candidates for future therapy or ambassador work.
Alumni Community Outings
What the Program Includes
After placement or training, veterans remain part of the VCAS family. Our Alumni Community Outings program offers ongoing opportunities for connection through social events, group activities, and family-friendly gatherings.
Events include:
- Zoo and museum outings
- Sporting events
- Holiday celebrations
- Outdoor adventures
- Family picnics and community meetups
Impact
For Veterans:
Many veterans miss the camaraderie of military life. Alumni events rebuild that sense of brotherhood and sisterhood, reducing isolation and creating lifelong friendships.
For Families:
Families connect with others who understand the veteran experience, forming supportive networks and shared memories.
For Dogs:
Companion dogs remain engaged, socialized, and active participants in family and community life.
Ambassador Therapy Dog Program
What the Program Includes
The Ambassador Program trains veteran-and-dog teams to serve together as certified therapy partners. These teams visit schools, hospitals, nursing homes, community centers, and public events — bringing comfort, joy, and connection to people in need.
Veterans receive:
- Advanced obedience and therapy dog training
- Certification support
- Guidance on community engagement opportunities
- Ongoing team development
Impact
For Veterans:
The Ambassador Program restores a powerful sense of continued service. Veterans often describe this as “putting the uniform back on” in a new way — serving their communities alongside their loyal companion.
For Families:
Families take pride in seeing their loved one thriving, giving back, and embraced by the community.
For Dogs:
Dogs gain enrichment, confidence, and purpose — thriving in roles that bring comfort to others.
A Lifelong Community of Support
VCAS does more than place dogs or offer training. We build a lifelong network of encouragement, accountability, and belonging. From first application to years after placement, veterans know they are never walking alone — they walk beside a companion, and alongside a community that believes in them.
Why This Matters
Every program we offer is provided at no cost to veterans. Food, veterinary care, training, supplies, events, and staff support are made possible entirely through donors, sponsors, and community partners.
When you support VCAS, you are:
- Rescuing dogs from shelters
- Helping veterans reclaim purpose and stability
- Strengthening families
- Building healthier, more connected communities
Join the Mission
Whether you are a veteran ready to take the next step, a supporter looking to invest in impact, or a community partner seeking collaboration — we invite you to be part of this life-changing work.
Together, we rescue dogs, empower veterans, and strengthen families — one bond at a tim