In this episode, we sit down with Arliss, a service dog in training, and learn about his incredible journey. Arliss shares his story, his training experiences, and the impact he hopes to have as a service dog for his future veteran. Key Takeaways:1️⃣ The Importance of Structure and Consistency: Arliss highlights the critical role that structure and consistency play in the training and development of service dogs. These key factors not only help them become reliable and effective companions but also ensure they can provide the necessary support to their forever veterans.2️⃣ Overcoming Challenges: Arliss opens up about his early struggles and how he overcame them with the support of his trainers and puppy raisers. Through determination and belief in himself, Arliss transformed from a wild teenage pup into a confident service dog, ready to make a difference.3️⃣ Dual Service Capabilities: Arliss reveals that he is being trained for both mobility and psychiatric service work. His mobility training includes tasks like picking up items for his veteran, while his psychiatric service work focuses on responding to nonverbal cues. This versatility allows Arliss to provide comprehensive support and assistance to his future veteran. Don't miss out on this insightful and inspiring episode! 

🎉🐶

 Tune in now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any other podcast platform. And remember to leave us a review or send us an email at podcasts@va.gov to let us know what topics you'd like us to cover in future episodes.#BeyondTheVest #ServiceDogs #PodcastEpisode #VeteransAffairs #Inspiration

I'm thrilled to announce that the latest episode of Beyond The Vest Podcast is now live! In episode 12, we had an incredible conversation with the Southeastern Guide Dog Foundation, featuring guests Sean and his service dog Nick, along with Emily Dombrowski, the Director of the Service Dog Program.

🐾

 This episode is jam-packed with insightful discussions about the life-changing impact of service dogs and the resources available for veterans dealing with disabilities. Here are 3 key takeaways:1️⃣ Service Dogs: Not just for physical disabilities! Service dogs can provide profound assistance to individuals with invisible disabilities such as PTSD and mobility issues. They play a crucial role in reducing and mitigating symptoms, helping veterans rejoin their communities in ways they previously couldn't.2️⃣ Realistic Expectations: Service dogs are part of a treatment plan. Integrating a service dog into a veteran's life is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It's important for healthcare professionals to understand the nuances and limitations of service dogs, recommending them as part of a comprehensive treatment strategy, alongside other therapies.3️⃣ Ambassador Dogs: Unsung heroes of service dog organizations! Ambassador dogs may not be cut out for service work initially, but they excel in being a voice for their organizations. They help spread awareness, educate the public, and support the mission of service dog foundations. Let's give these exceptional dogs the recognition they deserve! Don't miss out on this enlightening episode where we delve into the incredible work of the Southeastern Guide Dog Foundation and the impact service dogs have on veterans' lives. Check it out now on Beyond The Vest Podcast!#BeyondTheVestPodcast #ServiceDogs #VeteransSupport #InvisibleDisabilities #AmbassadorDogs #DogLovers

I'm thrilled to share that the latest episode of Beyond The Vest Podcast is now live! In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Geoffery Beatty and his service dog McKee from Warrior Canine Connection (WCC). They shared their inspiring journey and shed light on the importance of service dogs in helping veterans.

🐾

 Key Takeaways From This Episode 

🐾

1️⃣ Start the Process: If you believe you could benefit from a service dog, don't hesitate to start applying to different organizations. The wait time can be anywhere from one to two years, so getting started sooner rather than later is crucial.2️⃣ Trust the Process: Trust the filtering process that organizations like WCC have in place. They have experienced individuals who understand the dynamics of the relationship between a veteran and a service dog. Remember, the pairing process is like speed dating, and sometimes the unexpected can lead you to exactly what you need.3️⃣ Beyond Expectations: WCC not only provides what veterans need in a service dog but also looks ahead and anticipates what they may not even realize they need. The organization considers future needs and ensures the best match for both the veteran and the dog, creating a strong and lasting bond.I encourage you to listen to this episode to gain deeper insights into the incredible work that WCC and other organizations do. Let's work together to connect more veterans with the life-changing companionship of service dogs.Listen to Beyond The Vest Podcast Episode 11:[Link to the episode]#BeyondTheVest #ServiceDogs #Veterans #Podcast

I am thrilled to announce that our latest episode of Beyond The Vest Podcast is now live! 

🐾🎧

 In this episode, we had the privilege of interviewing Joe and Galexie from America's Vet Dogs. 

🇺🇸

 They shared their incredible experiences and insights on the deep bond between working dogs and their handlers.

🐕🎗

️ From the intense love that these dogs have for their jobs to the ways in which they emotionally connect with their tasks, you won't want to miss this episode. Here are our top 3 key takeaways:1️⃣ Working dogs are more than just "different people" when they are on the job. They have a profound emotional connection to their work and take immense pride in what they do.2️⃣ Losing their first dog taught our guests valuable lessons about the impact and importance of these incredible animals. The loss sparked a deep appreciation for the value and purpose that dogs bring to our lives, especially in the realm of assistance and support.3️⃣ Organizations like America's Vet Dogs play a vital role in providing specifically trained dogs for veterans with various physical disabilities and mental health conditions. From PTSD treatment to seizure and visual impairment support, these dogs are custom-trained to meet the unique needs of their individual handlers.Listen to the full episode now on your favorite podcast platform or visit our website at [insert podcast website link]. 

🌟🎙

️#BeyondTheVestPodcast #AmericaVetDogs #WorkingDogs #SupportAnimals #PodcastEpisode #Veterans #AssistanceDogs

🔹

 Exciting News! 

🎉

 I had the honor of being a guest on episode 9 of the Beyond the Vest podcast, titled "Meeting with Shannon Knapp, Founder of Horse Sense of the Carolinas." It was an amazing opportunity to discuss the importance of the human-animal bond and the role of service dogs in assisting veterans with PTSD. 

🐶🇺🇸🔹

 Key Takeaway 1: The power of the human-animal bond: Regardless of the species, there is a profound connection that can be established between humans and animals. This bond can provide immense comfort and support, especially for those who have experienced trauma. 

🐴

❤

️

🔹

 Key Takeaway 2: Horse-assisted therapy: Horse Sense of the Carolinas, founded by Shannon Knapp, offers psychotherapy and learning opportunities through interactions with horses. Horses, being incredibly intuitive and non-judgmental, assist individuals in processing trauma without relying solely on verbal communication. 

🐎🌱🔹

 Key Takeaway 3: Mission-based trauma recovery: The focus of working with veterans and first responders is to provide a safe and therapeutic environment where they can engage with horses and address their symptoms of trauma and PTSD. The sessions are experiential, allowing for individualized approaches that cater to each person's unique needs. 

✨💪

I invite you to listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Iheartradio, and don't forget to write a review or send an email to podcasts@va.gov to support the growth of this incredible podcast. Let's continue spreading awareness and support for service dogs and the well-being of our veterans and first responders. 

🎙

️

📻📮

#BeyondtheVest #ServiceDogs #Veterans #PTSD #HumanAnimalBond #HorseSenseoftheCarolinas #TraumaRecovery #PodcastGuest

I had the honor of being a guest on the latest episode of the Beyond the Vest podcast, hosted by Stacie Litsenberger. We delved into the fascinating world of service dogs, specifically discussing the introduction to the life of a service dog in training, with a special focus on a dog named Arliss. Here are three key takeaways from our enlightening conversation:1️⃣ Impulse control is crucial: Arliss initially struggled with impulse control issues, making his training journey a challenging one. However, with consistent structure and guidance, he showed remarkable resilience and growth. It serves as a reminder that impulse control training is an essential aspect of service dog training.2️⃣ Change of venue can facilitate progress: Sometimes, a change of environment can work wonders for a dog in training. Arliss's transition from the training center to my care resulted in positive behavioral changes. It reinforces the importance of providing service dogs with exposure to various settings, helping them adapt more effectively in real-world scenarios.3️⃣ Consistency and structure are key: Service dogs, like people, thrive on consistency and structure. By establishing clear routines and boundaries, we can help service dogs develop the skills necessary to assist veterans effectively. Arliss's transformation demonstrates the transformative power of consistency and structure.hank you to Stacie Litsenberger and the Beyond the Vest team for having me on the podcast. If you're interested in learning more about the fascinating world of service dogs, be sure to tune in to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe, write a review, or reach out to podcasts@va.gov with any questions or feedback.#BeyondTheVestPodcast #ServiceDogs #TrainingJourney #ImpulseControl #ChangeOfVenue #ConsistencyAndStructure

I had the honor of being a guest on the latest episode of the Beyond the Vest podcast, hosted by Stacie Litsenberger and Michele Tate. We delved into the fascinating world of service dogs, specifically discussing the introduction to the life of a service dog in training, with a special focus on a dog named Arliss. Here are three key takeaways from our enlightening conversation:1️⃣ Impulse control is crucial: Arliss initially struggled with impulse control issues, making his training journey a challenging one. However, with consistent structure and guidance, he showed remarkable resilience and growth. It serves as a reminder that impulse control training is an essential aspect of service dog training.2️⃣ Change of venue can facilitate progress: Sometimes, a change of environment can work wonders for a dog in training. Arliss's transition from the training center to my care resulted in positive behavioral changes. It reinforces the importance of providing service dogs with exposure to various settings, helping them adapt more effectively in real-world scenarios.3️⃣ Consistency and structure are key: Service dogs, like people, thrive on consistency and structure. By establishing clear routines and boundaries, we can help service dogs develop the skills necessary to assist veterans effectively. Arliss's transformation demonstrates the transformative power of consistency and structure.Thank you to Stacie Litsenberger and the Beyond the Vest team for having me on the podcast. If you're interested in learning more about the fascinating world of service dogs, be sure to tune in to this episode. Don't forget to subscribe, write a review, or reach out to podcasts@va.gov with any questions or feedback.#BeyondTheVestPodcast #ServiceDogs #TrainingJourney #ImpulseControl #ChangeOfVenue #ConsistencyAndStructure

I am thrilled to share that our latest episode of Beyond The Vest Podcast is now live! In this episode, we had the honor of interviewing Lexi, the Director of Client Services at Canines for Service. We delved into the fascinating world of service dogs and their profound impact on veterans' lives. Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:1️⃣ Puppy Power: While there are pros and cons to both puppies and rescue dogs, the benefits of puppies, especially purpose-bred ones, seem to outweigh the rest. Puppies receive specialized training from a young age, allowing for better desensitization and saving time in the long run.2️⃣ Individualized Training: Canines for Service takes a unique approach to training service dogs. They involve the client in the training process and gather information from the client and their spouse to understand their specific needs, triggers, and preferences. This personalized training ensures that the service dog is the perfect match for the client's requirements.3️⃣ Service Dog Appreciation: The significance of service dogs cannot be overstated. They enable disabled veterans to lead more independent lives, provide invaluable assistance, and offer much-needed companionship and support. In recognition of their contributions, the bipartisan resolution to designate September 20th as National Service Dog Day is a step forward in honoring these incredible animals.

🎧

 Tune in to Beyond The Vest Podcast Episode 5 to learn more about Canines for Service, their training methods, and the remarkable impact service dogs have on our veterans' lives. Don't miss out on this powerful conversation!#BeyondTheVestPodcast #serviceanimals #veteransupport #NationalServiceDogDay #puppiesvsrescues #individualizedtraining #caninesforservice