About Wolfhounds Legacy

Service dogs for veterans and first responders

Wolfhounds Legacy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Punta Gorda with a Southwest Florida chapter, whose mission is "to save two lives at a time, so no hero walks alone." The organization is 100% volunteer based and rescues dogs from high-risk shelters, places them in foster homes, and then pairs and trains them with veterans and first responders, with the aim of certifying the dogs as service animals for veterans with PTSD.

How the program works

Rescue dogs begin training in a home environment, meeting children, pets and the everyday settings of a veteran's life. Each team starts with a meet-and-greet, and once a match is made the handler and dog train for about nine months, split into three terms, with multiple tests along the way. Teams stay in touch after graduation, and many return to help train the next class. Course offerings in Southwest Florida include Canine Good Citizen, Advanced and Veteran Service Dog Training.

What owners say

One graduate, Kelly, wrote: "Thanks to Wolfhounds Legacy for training a service dog properly and professionally."

What to ask

Ask about service dog application steps, class locations and schedules for the Florida chapter, and volunteer or foster opportunities.