Programs

  • Program 1 [2021]

    Hero Dogs achieved a significant long-term goal this fiscal year by becoming fully accredited by Assistance Dogs International, the governing body for providers of assistance dogs. ADI certifies not-for-profit programs to ensure that they adhere to the highest standards in all aspects of their operations, including ethical treatment and training of dogs and clients, as well as solid service dog training and follow-up care. Despite the ongoing pandemic, we were able to hold a virtual graduation in January of 2021 that was viewed by over 2,200 people. Our breeding program, originally launched in 2018, added an additional nine puppies to the puppy program with a litter born in April of 2021. To date, the breeding program has produced 35 purpose bred puppies.
    Geographies
    Not indicated
    Dates
    Jul 1, 2020 – Jun 30, 2021
    Source
    990
    No causes provided
    No populations provided
    –
    $791.6K

  • Program 2 [2021]

    (Continued) We trained and placed five service dogs with veterans and first responders. We also placed facility dogs at Childrens National, the Frederick City Police Department, Sandy Spring Friends School, and the MD State Police--Office of the State Fire Marshall. One new therapy dog team was created.During this fiscal year our 13 working therapy dogs completed 143 visits to various schools, hospitals, and other care facilities. Our nine facility dogs assisted 2,526 unique clients with various needs, including, animal assisted intervention, counseling accompaniment, physical and occupational therapy support, and emotional support. At the end of fiscal year 2021, we had 27 dogs in training.
    Geographies
    Not indicated
    Dates
    Jul 1, 2020 – Jun 30, 2021
    Source
    990
    No causes provided
    No populations provided
    –
    –

  • Assistance Dog Training Program

    During this fiscal year, we placed eight service dog teams, five facility dog teams, and one skilled home companion. We currently have eight dogs in advanced training and 18 dogs in the puppy program. Our breeding program produced seven purpose bred Labrador retrievers. Through the Assistance Dogs International Breeding Cooperative (ABC), this litter was shared with three other accredited service dog organizations to ensure genetic diversity and balance within our dog training programs. We also received six additional puppies from other service dog organizations and reputable breeders during this period. We also received six additional puppies from other service dog organizations and reputable breeders during this period.Our reinvigorated therapy dog program became an AKC recognized program in June 2023 and we currently have 11 active teams conducting visits throughout the region.
    Geographies
    Not indicated
    Dates
    Jul 1, 2022 – Jun 30, 2023
    Source
    990
    No causes provided
    No populations provided
    –
    $736K