About
Patriot Service Dogs, Inc is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to helping Florida's disabled community gain a sense of independence through their partnership with a well trained service dog. Our focus is placing service dogs with returning Veterans in need. We strive to make a difference in the lives of those who have given so much for our freedom. We were formed in July of 2009 in Central Florida with initial offices in Jacksonville & Belleview. At the time of our incorporation, we had 7 founding members with an active and dedicated board. •
What is a service dog?
A Service Dog is a dog that is individually trained to perform tasks for those with disabilities. These tasks can include guiding those who are blind, alerting those who are deaf, pulling wheelchairs, alerting and protecting someone who is having a seizure, or performing other special tasks. Service dogs are working dogs, not pets.
Quick Facts
- We are a 501(c)(3) organization; all donations are tax deductible
- Our primary goal is to place well-trained service dogs with our veterans with a mobility disability.
- Our board meets every 2 months
- Long range plans include controlled growth, our own training facility & sustained financial development.
- Currently we are an all volunteer organization.
- 100% of our funding comes from grants, private donations & fundraisers.
- All financial information is open and available for all to see.
Community
We feel it is very important to support the communities that we live in and we have found ways that benefit both our pups in training and the community at large.
One such program is our Sunshine Reading Program. We have set up reading programs in Jacksonville Beach where children read to our pups. They are then able to take home a new book home to practice their skills. We are able to provide these books due to our generous book donations.
Another way we've been able to give back is through our nursing home visitation program. We are currently involved with Hospice of Marion County and Crystal River Rehab Center. Our visits to Crystal River are sponsored by the St. Benedicts Mens Club and Alter Guild. We appreciate their support and them setting up these visits. We feel it is a win/win for us all.
Lend a helping hand
If you are looking for an organization to volunteer with – we welcome you! Our volunteer opportunities include:
- Puppy Raising – a 2 year commitment
- Event Planning
- Vacation raisers – a wonderful way to see all that goes into being a puppy raiser
- Setting up speaking engagements
- Hosting a houseparty – invite your friends we'll do the rest!
If you have a desire to help, we will gladly find a place for you in the Patriot Service Dogs Family – just call 904-777-1371