Freedom Service Dogs

In 2022, FSD graduated 26 client-dog teams from the following programs: Operation Freedom (12 teams) : FSD matches veterans and active duty military withhighly specialized service dogs that help them find a new level of independence andconfidence. Traditional placement (6 teams): FSD matches individuals with disabilities,including spinal-cord injuries, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, cerebralpalsy, and others, with dogs that are custom trained to meet their unique needs. Discos Dogs (7 teams): This program provides service dogs and skilled-companion dogs for individuals age 5 and up with autism-related differences or developmentaldisabilities. Therapy dogs (1 teams): This program matches mental health and crisis professionals with professional therapy dogs that work alongside them in group or individual sessions with their clients. In 2022, FSD welcomed 128 purpose-bred puppies born at FSD into the training program. Carefully managing the genetics, temperament, health care, and early training and socialization of the service dog candidates enables FSD to graduate more successful service dogs in a timelier manner. In addition to graduating 26 client-dog teams in 2022, FSD also offered lifetime support, including follow-up training and recertification, to 165 existing client dog teams to ensure that clients and their assistance dogs continue to have a positive partnership by teaching dogs new tasks to meet the clients changing needs. During 2022, FSD volunteers logged 490,786 hours from 372 volunteers who fostered puppies and assisted with dog care, dog training, dog socialization, public education, administration, event support, and outreach.

Public education and outreach: FSD provides a variety of educational programs, including working with youths with developmental disabilities or neurodiversity in schools, community programs, and other settings, and educating corporate and community-based groups on the FSD mission and impact.