LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — A Nevada nonprofit is expanding into Las Vegas as it works to connect veterans facing mental health challenges with service dogs.
Liberty Dogs trains service dogs to serve as “battle buddies” for veterans. The organization has a 27-acre campus in Reno used to train the dogs and is seeking volunteer puppy raisers.
A veteran finds support
Rich Earl said he struggled with anxiety, depression and health issues from burn pits used on base after serving seven years in the Army. Adjusting to civilian life was difficult, he said.
“I was proud of serving, but I also didn’t feel like I fit in. I had a hard time maintaining a job. I had seven to eight jobs. Got a divorce,” Earl said. “And I was struggling.”
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Earl said a cancer diagnosis last year led him to seek help. After facing long waits and high costs in his search for a service dog, he found Liberty Dogs and was paired with Reagan.
After two weeks of training and a month with Reagan at home, Earl said the dog has given him a sense of purpose.
“I feel like I have a purpose. I think that’s important for veterans, especially when some of them are struggling with depression,” he said. “I think knowing that you have someone else, you know, relying on you to take care of them is important.”
Training service dogs
‘Purpose-bred’ and shelter dogs work with Liberty Dogs trainers for 16 to 18 months before returning to the Reno campus for advanced training, according to the organization. Veterans then spend 2 weeks at the free, all-inclusive campus to train with their dogs.
About 9% of Nevada’s population are veterans, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
If you’re interested in learning more about Liberty Dogs, visit this website.
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