Role in the Funding Ecosystem
Partners With Paws operates as a discretionary grant provider in the form of in-kind donations, distributing highly trained psychiatric service dogs valued at $25,000 each to eligible recipients at zero cost. Unlike traditional monetary grant programs, this organization provides a transformative therapeutic intervention that enables recipients to manage conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
Target Audiences and Impact
The organization serves individuals who cannot access service dogs through other charities, specifically non-veterans and non-first responders who typically face limited options. Since 2019, Partners With Paws has placed 19 graduate dogs with recipients, with 6 additional dogs currently in training. The program achieves an 80% success rate, demonstrating effective outcomes in matching dogs with appropriate handlers.
Types of Dogs Provided
- Psychiatric Service Dogs - for individuals with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions
- Facility Dogs - placed in professional settings such as therapy offices, schools, and healthcare facilities
- Skilled Companion Dogs - providing emotional support and assistance to individuals in need
Program Timeline and Costs
Each dog requires approximately 2 years of training at a cost of $25,000. Despite these substantial costs, recipients pay $0 for their service dog. The organization maintains low operational expenses, with 87 cents of every donated dollar going directly to dog care and training.