Training service dogs for survivors of sexual assault
Valiant Heart Companions provides specially trained service dogs to survivors of sexual assault, helping them regain independence, confidence, and peace of mind.
Valiant Heart Companions was founded with a simple yet powerful mission: to help survivors of sexual assault reclaim their lives through the healing bond of a trained service dog.
Our organization specializes in training dogs to perform specific tasks that mitigate the symptoms of trauma, including creating space in crowded environments, providing deep pressure therapy during anxiety attacks, and offering a comforting presence during nightmares and flashbacks.
We believe that every survivor deserves access to the unique support that service dogs can provide, regardless of their financial situation. That's why we provide our dogs at little to no cost to qualified applicants.
Learn More About UsSince our founding, Valiant Heart Companions has made a significant difference in the lives of survivors across the country.
Service dogs placed with survivors
Recipients report improved quality of life
States reached with our program
Hours of specialized training per dog
Hear from survivors whose lives have been transformed through their partnership with a Valiant Heart service dog.
After my assault, I couldn't leave my apartment alone. The anxiety and hypervigilance were overwhelming. Since receiving Bella, everything has changed. She gives me the confidence to go grocery shopping, attend classes, and even enjoy social events again. She's not just a service dog--she's my lifeline to independence.
The nightmares were the worst part for me. I was afraid to sleep, which affected every aspect of my life. My service dog, Max, is trained to wake me during nightmares and provide deep pressure therapy. For the first time in years, I'm getting restful sleep. The difference in my mental health and daily functioning is remarkable.
Having Luna alert me when someone approaches from behind has eliminated countless panic attacks. It's hard to explain to someone who hasn't experienced trauma how valuable this simple task is. The Valiant Heart team took the time to understand my specific needs and trained Luna accordingly. I finally feel safe again.
Every survivor's journey is unique. Here are some of their stories and how service dogs have been instrumental in their healing process.
After experiencing sexual assault in college, Sarah struggled with PTSD, panic attacks, and severe social anxiety that made it impossible to continue her education.
Three years after being paired with her service dog, Cooper, Sarah has completed her degree and is now working as an advocate for other survivors.
Read Sarah's Full StoryAs a male survivor, Michael faced unique challenges in finding support and resources. His hypervigilance and trust issues had isolated him from friends and family.
His service dog, Riley, has helped him navigate public spaces safely and reconnect with his community through a newfound sense of security.
Read Michael's Full StoryAfter her assault, Elena developed agoraphobia so severe that she couldn't step outside her home alone. Simple tasks like checking the mail became overwhelming challenges.
With her service dog, Daisy, Elena has gradually reclaimed her independence, recently celebrating the milestone of traveling alone for the first time in five years.
Read Elena's Full StoryOur service dogs undergo rigorous selection and nearly two years of specialized training before they're matched with survivors. Get to know some of our amazing canine heroes.
Breed: Labrador Retriever
Special Skills: Deep pressure therapy, nightmare interruption, creating personal space in crowds
Ranger excels at sensing anxiety triggers before his handler even notices them, allowing for early intervention during potential panic attacks.
Learn More About RangerBreed: Golden Retriever
Special Skills: Room clearing, perimeter checks, grounding during flashbacks
Lily's calm demeanor makes her particularly suited for survivors who struggle with hypervigilance in new environments.
Learn More About LilyBreed: Standard Poodle
Special Skills: Alerting to approaching people, boundary enforcement, medication reminders
Orion's intelligence allows him to adapt quickly to new tasks as his handler's needs evolve throughout their recovery journey.
Learn More About OrionStay informed about service dog training, trauma recovery, and our latest news through these highlighted articles.
Recent research is shedding light on why service dogs are so effective for trauma survivors. Beyond the emotional support they provide, these dogs offer physiological benefits that can help regulate stress responses in the body.
Read ArticleNavigating public spaces with a service dog means understanding both your rights and responsibilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This comprehensive guide breaks down key information.
Read ArticleWhat does it take to transform a puppy into a specialized service dog for trauma survivors? Our head trainer explains our 18-month progressive training program and selection process.
Read ArticleWe collaborate with trauma specialists, veterinary professionals, and community organizations to provide comprehensive support for survivors.
It costs approximately $25,000 to select, raise, train, and place each service dog with a survivor. Your donation helps us provide these life-changing companions at little to no cost to survivors who need them.
Have questions about our programs, application process, or how you can get involved? We're here to help.
For information about our organization, programs, or services.
Email: info@vhcompanions.org
Phone: (555) 123-4567
For assistance with the service dog application process.
Email: applications@vhcompanions.org
Phone: (555) 123-4568
For information about supporting our work or collaboration opportunities.
Email: development@vhcompanions.org
Phone: (555) 123-4569
Your Privacy Matters: We respect your privacy and are committed to protecting your personal information. By contacting us, you consent to our collection and processing of your data as outlined in our Privacy Policy. We never sell or share your information with third parties for marketing purposes.