Hold The Line Service Dogs, Inc. raises and trains service dogs for veterans and first responders with a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or traumatic brain injury (TBI). Each service dogs training has been based on what we know about PTSD and TBI's, as well as the individual needs for each client.

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The service dog as a “Bridge”

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Hold The Line Service Dogs, Inc. trains the dogs to be the "bridge" between the life of service and the civilian life. The dog is a companion who will help guide you to feel more connected
with your surroundings. They are your “battle buddy", staying by your side wherever you go. They can help you to feel more comfortable going out into public because you know he/she "has your six." The service dogs have been trained to be "bomb proof", meaning if the dog is not alarmed by a noise or an event, the veteran or first responder doesn’t need to be alarmed either. People are usually drawn to the service dog and will focus on the dog, not the handler; and this makes the handler feel comfortable in many situations. Over time and as the bond grows, the handler gradually learns to trust the dog and therefore, makes reintegration into society possible. The dog is not only a tool that can help you in a variety of ways, but we hope that he/she will become your best friend.

 

 

Acceptance into the program:

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• DD214 (veteran only)

• PTSD/TBI diagnosis by a licensed therapist

• Diagnosis must be a direct result of combat or service related duty

• Veteran or first responder must not be suicidal or homicidal

• Must not be currently abusing drugs or alcohol and must be clean and sober for at least 1 year

• Must not be violent or assaultive

• Must be able to care for animal consistently and independently

• Must currently be in therapy (psychologist, psychiatrist, therapist)

• Must ask himself/herself: how will a dog help with the current diagnosis?

 

Our matching process:

Once you have applied and been accepted to our program, you will be invited for an in-person interview. The more we know about you and your lifestyle, the better of a match we can make for you and your service dog, which is the key to a successful partnership between you and your “battle buddy."

 

Geographic:

We will serve Veterans and first responders that live within 1 ½ hours of driving time within the
St. Louis MO area at this time. The support and follow up after receiving one of our highly
trained support dogs is extremely crucial for a successful placement.

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