Program areas at Blue Star Service Dogs
In 2023, Blue Star Service Dogs welcomed 36 Veterans and 6 First Responders (all firefighters) into our service dog training program, successfully enrolling 38% of applicants. We introduced 12 students to our STAR Program and included 6 participants in our "Bring Your Own Dog" (BYOD) program. 5 of the 6 BYOD dogs participated in intensive training, spending approximately 6 to 9 weeks in our prison program.Through our STAR Program, we rescued 12 dogs from shelters across Michigan, placing most in the Saginaw Correctional Facility in Freeland and Thumb Correctional Facility in Lapeer, with two dogs housed at Woodland Correctional Facility in Whitmore Lake. Additionally, two service dogs, donated by a breeder, were enrolled in the prison program for extended training and paired with w Veteran and First Responder. Our prison program involved 46 inmate handlers who provided foundational obedience and pre-task training. Blue Star Service Dogs trainers visited the prisons weekly to guide handlers, assess each dog's progress, and support effective training.In 2023, we proudly celebrated the graduation of 11 service dog teams.
Our education program engages organizations, schools, corporations, and public events to raise awareness about service dog laws and proper etiquette. We also collaborate with businesses to clarify their rights concerning unqualified or "fake" service dogs, helping protect their spaces and programs while ensuring non-discriminatory practices toward individuals with disabilities. In 2023, we completed 43 presentations, supporting our veterans and first responders in navigating civilian life and reconnecting with family, employers, and their communities.
At Blue Star Service Dogs, we are proud to have rescued 29 dogs, with an impressive 82% success rate in our selection process. Only 5 dogs returned to the shelter for adoption, while some found homes even before returning, as Correctional Staff chose to adopt them directly.