Service Dogs for Gold Star Family Members
At Dogs Inc, we believe that even in life’s hardest moments, hope can arrive on four paws and a wagging tail. Our Gold Star Service Dog Program was created to honor the extraordinary sacrifice made by the families of our fallen heroes—by pairing qualifying Gold Star family members with highly trained, life-changing service dogs.
These dogs are more than partners. They are lights in dark moments. They are steady paws on unsteady days. They are everyday reminders that no one walks this journey alone.
What makes our service dogs extraordinary?
We start with top pedigrees and dogs chosen for the best health and genetics. Our expert instructors spend thousands of hours teaching them advanced skills. We surround our dogs with love and positive reinforcement, and they give that love back to you!
Every service dog begins learning at just two days old, as gentle human hands teach them that people are their very best friends. Young pups explore the world and gain confidence and adaptability.
Before matching dogs with Gold Star family members, service dogs learn 15–20 advanced skills, each designed to assist you with symptoms and situations related to post-traumatic stress and anxiety. Next, it’s time for you to learn how your dog can restore your freedom, confidence, and hope.
Service dog vest on? These dogs love to work, and all their attention focuses on you. Vest off? You’ve got yourself a buddy and a best friend, ready for back scratches, belly rubs, and a gleeful run around the yard.
With a service dog by your side, you’ll discover a life worth living and a calmer, brighter, more hopeful world.
Who This Program Serves
This program is available to Gold Star family members who have a qualifying disability and are seeking the support, stability, and partnership that a service dog can bring. Whether it’s help navigating daily tasks, easing emotional challenges, or offering grounding in moments of stress or isolation, these dogs are trained to help their human partner reclaim confidence, independence, and joy.
Alumni Support: We've Got You Covered!
Every service dog comes with more than world-class training. Each team receives ongoing support—online and in person—along with the care and tools you need to move forward with confidence.
Thanks to generous partners like Fromm Family Pet Foods, Elanco, and others, service dogs receive dog food, preventatives, vaccinations, routine veterinary care, and help with unexpected medical expenses. You also receive local transportation through Uber and Uber Pets.
A Heartfelt Partnership
When a Gold Star family member is matched with a service dog, something truly special happens:
Two stories become one. A team is born. And a new chapter begins full of connection, healing, and possibility.
Our service dogs are trained with purpose, compassion, and a whole lot of heart. And when they meet their person, they don’t just become helpers… they become family.
Service Dog Training and Campus Life
Start with Online Learning
Gold Star family members accepted into our program will begin training from the comfort of your home through our Online Prep Lab. Here, you’ll gain an excellent foundation.
Your Campus Stay
For Gold Star family members training on our well-appointed campus, you and your dog will stay for 11 days in private, artfully furnished rooms. With chef-prepared meals and a welcoming atmosphere, you’ll feel like you’re on a working vacation! Learn more about campus life here.
Hands-on Instruction
With a low instructor-to-student ratio, your personalized, hands-on instruction will equip you to navigate with confidence.
If we do say so ourselves—you’re going to love it here. Our 99.9% student satisfaction speaks volumes! And there’s never any cost to you.
How to Apply
If you’re a Gold Star family member interested in applying for a service dog, we’d be honored to hear from you. Click on our Service Dog Application to learn more about eligibility.
