Wall of Honor
"When I first got into the PAWSS program I was a shell of myself. I dealt with a lot of social anxiety, PTSD, and long-term depression. but the PAWSS team helped me find a greater purpose and help find my light that I thought was extinguished long ago. All of the people were so welcoming and made me feel like I wasn't alone and they became my family that I always wanted. They walked me through every step of the way with training my dog, making sure that I knew I was part of a team and with bringing my dog Rockie into my life. I will always be grateful for Rockie because she is one of the best things that has ever happened to my life after the military. I hope Ryan and Janna continue to do the amazing work that they're doing, helping one veteran at a time, because this veteran owes them my life."
- Sean W.
"With growing physical limitations and overwhelming mental complications left over from my combat tours, I was depressed and going down that proverbial "evil road of no return." The professional staff at PAWSS gave me new hope and purpose with a uniquely trained service dog that became my savior and best friend all at once. Ryan and his hand-selected training peers are the best I've ever seen. They are truly a joy to watch at work and they also speak the language of veterans to better understand specific needs. They can delicately guide you, as the handler, and your K9 towards recovery during the training process by enabling you and your service dog to cope with the stressful demands of daily disabled life, all at no cost. The PAWSS team gave me the instructions necessary to conform my service dog into the certified medical assistant that now stands by my side no matter what. My service dog that was created by these dedicated experts gives me the confidence necessary to function and begin the healing process. Thank you to the beautiful souls that make up the PAWSS family for accepting me into your loving arms and transforming me and my best friend back into all that I can be."
- T S, SFC US Army Ret
"PAWSS became my second family, and my safe haven. They stood by me when I was at my worst. No judgement, and they go at your pace. They are the true meaning of brotherhood. I recommend them to all who are looking to train their own Service Dog."
- Megan K.
When I was told by my Psychologist that a service dog would benefit me in everyday life, I searched for the dog that would be a good fit for me. I was told about P.A.W.S.S. and what they did for Veterans and First Responders. I found their contact information, called them, and spoke with Ryan where he explained everything to me. From that day forward, everything just fell into place. I went to my first training meeting and felt like part of the family from day one. With Ryan and Janna; also all team members, I will never be able to thank them enough for what they have done for me in my life. We will be family forever.
- Thomas E.
Being a Veteran with PTSD, it's easy to feel misunderstood and isolated. But from the moment Grizzly, my Rottweiler, and I connected with P.A.W.S.S., I knew I had found more than just an organization to train my dog to become a service dog - I found a family. They embraced me and my wife with genuine compassion and treated us as one of their own. Every interaction made us feel valued, seen, and supported. The warmth and acceptance we experienced helped us in ways I can't fully express. P.A.W.S.S. isn't just about providing assistance; it's about creating a sense of belonging and reminding us that we're never alone. They gave me back a sense of hope and connection that I thought I had lost. Thank you to the Newmans and their team!
- Allison W. (and Grizz)
We are immensely grateful to P.A.W.S.S for the incredible support they provided to our family in training our beloved service dog, Honey. From the moment we reached out to them, their compassion and dedication were evident. Not only did P.A.W.S.S train Honey to be an invaluable support for our daughter, but they also went above and beyond in ensuring that both Honey and our family were equipped for success. They have expertise in training service dogs and genuine care for the handlers and their furry friends. Throughout the training process, P.A.W.S.S. provided us with personalized guidance and support, tailoring Honey's training to meet our daughter's specific needs. They were patient, understanding, and always available to answer any questions or concerns we had along the way. And trust us we had a lot of questions and no questions went unanswered. Thanks to P.A.W.S.S., Honey has become an indispensable part of our family, bringing joy, comfort, and assistance to our daughter everyday. We cannot recommend P.A.W.S.S. highly enough to anyone in need of service dog training. Their commitment to both the dogs and their handlers is truly remarkable, and we are forever grateful for the positive impact they have had on our lives. A huge thank you to Ryan and Janna for spending time in and out of class to support our needs. We are truly thankful for you!
-Gina, Rowan, Brian, and Honey
Today, I write to you with filled with gratitude, optimism and an unstoppable resilience, desiring to share with you my life-altering journey with PAWSS. Herein unfolds a heartfelt chronicle of struggle and triumph.
PAWSS, a remarkable organization that came into my life, opened my world to newfound hope and strength. From the sweet serenity of the first day, they welcomed not just me, but my entire family into their compassionate fold with open arms and hearts. As if by chance or maybe destiny, I swiftly became a cherished part of their family, a feeling that has ever since brought unparalleled comfort to my heart
Fast forward to the past year, a crucible of sorrows that I bore, which truly tested my will and convoluted my life beyond bounds. Yet, amidst the overarching gloom, PAWSS emerged as the beacon of my life, illuminating my path with an arsenal of valuable tools and resources. With an inexplicable combination of toughness and tenderness, they led me through my darkest hour.
At the pinnacle of my despair, they brought into my world the greatest blessing - my beloved service dog, who seemed to choose me, rather than the other way around. My newfound companion, Ariel, blossomed under the guidance of PAWSS's expertise and now serves not just as a friend, but my protector, confidante, and unrelenting source of strength.
PAWSS amicably guided me through every aspect of becoming a skilled service dog handler. Today, they stand as a testament to their dedication, proficiency, and remarkable attention to detail. It is they who equipped Ariel with the skills to support me through my personal health trials, empathizing with me as a caretaker for a seriously ill family member, and ultimately, helping me navigate the tumultuous journey of bereavement.
A recurring theme throughout my struggle and victory has been the unyielding support of PAWSS. Its omnipresent aid, regardless of the gravity of the situation, has been merely a phone call away. This effortless accessibility has created a safety net around me, knowing I am never alone in my fight, thus fortifying my faith in this beautiful life journey.
Ariel and PAWSS's support have molded me into a more confident individual with the unseen armor to confront the world. With a lethal combination of emotional fortitude, optimism, and an unwavering spirit, I'm eager to face the trials and tribulations life inevitably throws our way, armored with the love and support of Ariel and the PAWSS family.
Don't we find that true strength is born out of struggle? For every challenge we face, every hardship we endure, and in every dark night that we fear, there’s an opportunity to emerge stronger and more victorious. PAWSS has taught me this valuable lesson, and Ariel embodies this noble principle. Today, I'm not just a different person, but a better one because of them.
The winding road of life is laden with unexpected junctures and speed bumps! Yet, with unity, support, and love, every struggle can transform into a stepping stone towards victory. PAWSS personifies this spirit of passionate resilience, while Ariel highlights the strength of unyielding companionship.
In closing, I'd like to express my heartfelt appreciation to PAWSS. You have imprinted an indelible mark on my heart, my soul, and my journey that words cannot adequately capture. So, here's my humble attempt to externalize my internal gratefulness. Thank you, PAWSS, for your unwavering support, invaluable guidance, and ceaseless belief in me. Keep making a difference and shining that iridescent light onto desperate souls, one day at a time!
Thank you for all that you do!!!!
-Carey Odell and Aerial