Next generation of service dogs visit VA’s central office

Four puppies visited the lobby of VA’s Central Office today to introduce themselves as soon-to-be service dogs. Warrior Canine Connection, an organization that helps raise these dogs and connect them with Veterans, visited VA with two golden and two black Labradors.

Warrior Canine Connection enlists service members and Veterans with combat stress in the critical mission of training service dogs for fellow Wounded Warriors.When the puppies are born, they spend the first few months of their lives at Boyds, MD “Healing Quarters,” where they live and train in the Puppy Enrichment Center.

Beginning with the Honor Litter in 2013, WCC puppies are named for Service Members and Veterans who have made significant contributions to our nation — and in many cases, made the ultimate sacrifice. Warrior Canine Connection welcomes public input on names for future litters. If you are interested in nominating a former or current Service Member, a form is available here.

When puppies reach approximately 10 weeks of age, they are placed with individuals and families who care for them for the next 18 – 24 months. These “puppy parents” provide loving homes, training and exposure to a wide variety of public settings and situations that prepare the canine for advanced training and placement with a disabled Veteran.

To learn more about Warrior Canine Connection and their process of developing service dogs for Veterans, visit their website.