Honoring Our Heroes: How Happy With Dogs Supports Veterans Every Day

Happy With Dogs was founded by Rebecca Pasko, a disabled Marine Corps Veteran. Rebecca’s personal experience with PTSD led her to discover the profound healing power of the human-canine bond. This discovery became the cornerstone of our mission: to empower veterans through dog training.

“As a veteran with PTSD, I understand firsthand the challenges that come with transitioning back to civilian life,” says Rebecca. “My own journey of healing through my relationship with my dog inspired me to create a program that could help other veterans experience the same transformation.”

Training That Transforms Lives

At Happy With Dogs, we specialize in helping veterans with PTSD train their own dogs. This unique approach serves a dual purpose:

1. It provides veterans with a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
2. It strengthens the bond between the veteran and their dog, creating a support system that extends far beyond traditional therapy.

Our training methods are rooted in compassion and understanding. We use reinforcement techniques that not only train the dog but also help the veteran develop patience, confidence, and emotional regulation skills.

Partnering for Progress: Our Collaboration with C-P.A.W.W.

We’re proud to announce our partnership with Florida Atlantic University’s C-P.A.W.W. (Canine-Providing Assistance to Wounded Warriors) program. Through this collaboration, we train service dogs specifically for veterans, further expanding our ability to support those who have served our country.

The Happy With Dogs Difference

What sets us apart is our deep understanding of both canine behavior and the unique needs of veterans. Our founder, Rebecca, holds the prestigious Training Without Conflict Certification, reflecting our commitment to ethical training practices.

“We believe in training methods that build trust and strengthen relationships,” Rebecca explains. “This is especially important when working with veterans who may be dealing with trauma. Our approach creates a safe, positive environment for both the veteran and the dog to grow and heal together.”

A Team Dedicated to Service

Our commitment to veterans is reflected in our entire team. Collectively, we bring over two decades of experience in animal behavior to our work. This wealth of knowledge allows us to tailor our training programs to meet the specific needs of each veteran-dog pair we work with.

Looking to the Future

As we celebrate Veterans Day, we’re reminded of the ongoing need for support in our veteran community. At Happy With Dogs, we’re committed to expanding our services and reaching more veterans who could benefit from the healing power of the human-canine bond.

We invite you to join us in our mission. Whether you’re a veteran looking for support, a dog owner interested in our training methods, or someone who wants to contribute to our cause, there’s a place for you in the Happy With Dogs family.

This Veterans Day, let’s not just thank our veterans for their service – let’s actively support them in their ongoing journey. Because at Happy With Dogs, every day is an opportunity to serve those who have served us.