About Semper k9 assistance dogs
Semper K9 Assistance Dogs: Providing Custom-Trained Service Dogs to Wounded Veterans
Semper K9 is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit veterans charity that provides custom-trained service dogs to wounded veterans at no cost. The organization was founded in 2014 by Christopher Baity, a retired USMC combat veteran, and his wife Amanda Baity. Semper K9's mission is to enhance the quality of life for wounded veterans by providing them with highly trained service dogs that can assist them with daily tasks and provide emotional support.
The organization's name "Semper" comes from the Marine Corps motto "Semper Fidelis," which means "always faithful." This motto reflects the organization's commitment to serving those who have served our country. Semper K9 believes that every veteran deserves a chance to live their life to the fullest, and their service dogs play an essential role in making this possible.
Semper K9's service dogs are trained specifically for each individual veteran based on their needs and disabilities. The training process takes approximately six months and includes obedience training, task-specific training, public access training, and socialization. The dogs are trained using positive reinforcement techniques, which ensure that they are happy and well-adjusted animals.
Once a dog has completed its training program, it is matched with a veteran who has applied for one of Semper K9's service dogs. The matching process takes into account the veteran's specific needs as well as the dog's temperament and personality. Once matched, the veteran undergoes additional training with their new service dog so that they can work together effectively as a team.
The benefits of having a Semper K9 assistance dog are numerous. These highly trained animals can help veterans with physical disabilities by retrieving items or opening doors for them. They can also provide emotional support by alerting their owners when they sense anxiety or depression symptoms arising or simply being there when needed most. Additionally, service dogs can help veterans with PTSD by providing a calming presence and interrupting flashbacks or nightmares.
Semper K9's service dogs are not only beneficial to the veterans they serve but also to their families. The dogs provide a sense of security and comfort to family members who may be worried about their loved one's well-being. They also help to reduce stress levels in the household by taking on some of the daily tasks that may have been challenging for the veteran before.
Semper K9 relies on donations from individuals, corporations, and foundations to fund its programs. The organization is committed to transparency and accountability, and all donations go directly towards training and providing service dogs for wounded veterans. Semper K9 has received numerous awards for its work, including being named one of CNN's Heroes in 2018.
In conclusion, Semper K9 is an incredible organization that provides custom-trained service dogs at no cost to wounded veterans. Their commitment to enhancing the quality of life for these brave men and women is truly inspiring. If you are interested in supporting Semper K9's mission or know a veteran who could benefit from their services, please visit their website at semperk9.org.