About K-9 Caring Angels Therapy & Service Dogs 501c3

What it is

K-9 Caring Angels Therapy & Service Dogs is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Bealeton, not a commercial trainer. Its stated purpose is supporting "veterans, first responders, and communities across Virginia, Maryland, and DC through the training and placement of highly skilled therapy and service dogs", and it works nationally. It has been operating since 2012 and publishes totals of more than 200 certified dogs across 14 states.

How the two halves fit together

This is the part worth understanding before you contact either organization. The nonprofit and America's K-9 Caring Angels Dog Training LLC are explicitly described as separate entities. Donor generosity funds training for veterans in need, fully or partially, while "community organizations, first responders, and individuals partner with our professional trainers through our for-profit arm, America's K-9 Caring Angels." So a veteran applies here, and a fire department or a private handler generally goes to the LLC.

Programs

Two lines are named. Veteran Service Dogs covers psychiatric service dogs for veterans and first responders. Community Dogs covers therapy and facility dog teams placed in firehouses, hospitals and schools, and the organization certifies those teams nationwide rather than only placing dogs.

The founders' account of why it exists is on the site: a daughter's deployment to Afghanistan with the U.S. Air Force, and the difference a well-trained service dog made to her recovery.

What to ask

Ask about application criteria, waiting times, and the task training and public-access standards a dog goes through; the trainers and staff sit with the for-profit arm. Veteran placements are donor-funded. Contact is by phone or email.