The Maine Paws for Veterans Program
Most dogs are from shelters
and rescue organizations
Our Service Dog Program matches homeless dogs with veterans living with post-traumatic stress. Most of the dogs we work with are hand-selected from shelters and rescue organizations and paired with their veterans. In the event that the veteran has their own canine companion, we are happy to evaluate them as potential service dogs.
There is no cost to the veteran
There is no cost to the veteran, thanks to the generosity of our donors and partnerships within our community.
Classes are personalized
In this unique program, the pair train together enriching both lives, while building peer relationships with others in the training class.
Apply Online
How it works.
- Application:
MPfV Application Procedure |
The Right Fit |
Application 2026 |
Medical Mental Health Referral |
Veteran Medical Referral
- Background Check: Every Applicant must agree to a Background Check. If the Background Check is favorable, the Applicant will move forward in the process.
- Canine Evaluation: All dogs must pass a Canine Evaluation.
Unfavorable Breeds | Service Dog Prospect | The Right Fit | Canine Information | Veterinarian Report | Canine Support System - Mental Health Interview: Each Applicant will be interview by a member of our Mental Health Team. VA ROI | Authorization to Release Confidential Information
- Home Visit: Home visits are scheduled after the completion of the Interview process. Landlord Release
- Program Approval: At the successful completion of all the above steps, an Applicant will be approved to begin the Service Dog Training Program.
Approval Process | Canine Training Preparation - Orientation: Attendance at the Orientation is mandatory, as it explains in detail the Service Dog Training Program.
Our Graduates
In their own words
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