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# Puppy Jake Foundation

Service Dogs for Veterans

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Finding Her Calm](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/finding-her-calm/) - Medically retired from the military, Megan found relief with her service dog Jessie, matched through Puppy Jake Foundation's veteran program.
- [Finding Faith Again](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/finding-faith-again/) - Meet FoxyFaith, the service dog who helped Tina find her way back to herself after a CRPS diagnosis.
- [Hear the Birds Sing Again](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/hear-the-birds-sing-again/) - PTSD cost Sean nearly every relationship in his life. Meet Chips, his Puppy Jake service dog, and see how veteran service dogs change lives.
- [Comfortable in His Own Skin](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/comfortable-in-his-own-skin/) - Living with PTSD, Chris found stability with his service dog. See how Puppy Jake Foundation pairs veterans with service dogs for lasting support.
- [Betty: Re-careered But Still Serving](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/the-dog-who-kept-teaching-us/) - When Betty was re-careered from Puppy Jake Foundation's service dog program, we thought we knew how her story would end. We were wrong. At Puppy Jake Foundation, we believe every dog has something to teach us. Most of the time, those lessons happen during a dog's journey to becoming a service dog. Occasionally, they continue
- [A Bond Beyond Words](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/a-bond-beyond-words/) - Everything changed for Dustin when his dog, TJ came into his life. Since the day they were paired together, TJ’s presence brought Dustin a source of comfort, companionship, and unwavering support. But when Dustin discovered a newfound independence in navigating daily life with TJ, from helping Dustin get up from the ground, a task others
- [From Foster to Forever](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/from-foster-to-forever/) - Zac joined the Puppy Jake Family with his wife as a foster family, but throughout their journey, they became so much more than volunteers. At the time, Zac and his wife had been locked in an 8-year battle with the VA to get disability benefits and had experienced firsthand the shortfall in assistance for veterans,
- [Heel for Healing](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/heel-for-healing/) - As a Medic and Medic Instructor in the Army and Army National Guard, Adam spent 13 years caring for his fellow servicemen. When he medically retired with leg and back injuries, he realized that his post-traumatic stress would become an even bigger problem than his physical limitations. It became so isolating over the years that
- [A Guardian Angel for a Guardian Angel](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/a-guardian-angel-for-a-guardian-angel/) - September 11, 2001 was a day that changed the lives of every American, and Mike was no different. After graduating from the University of Iowa, he found himself compelled to help fight America’s enemies. When deciding what to do in the Air Force, he asked his recruiter what was needed most–to which the recruiter replied,
- [Taking the First Step on a New Road](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/taking-the-first-step-on-a-new-road/) - Marc’s path through his military career brought him on many journeys; From being pinned down in the Arghandab riverbed with the threat of a sniper looming over him to building roads in dusty sand and gravel surrounded by landmines, Marc's military career took him to places he never thought he'd be. After navigating a road
- [A New Path Forward ](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/a-new-path-forward/) - Tori See Full Bio
- [Out of the Fire](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/out-of-the-fire/) - With dreams of becoming a firefighter, Matt joined the Iowa National Guard in 1998, where he could get some of the best training possible. After times of peace turned to times of terror, he was deployed to Iraq in 2003. Every day posed new dangers, and the threat of injury or death became more and
- [July Pupdates: See What's Happening at Puppy Jake Foundation](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/july-pupdates-see-whats-happening-at-puppy-jake-foundation/) - here's always something happening at Puppy Jake Foundation, and our July Pupdates is packed with the latest news from our program. This month's newsletter includes updates on our service dogs in training, volunteer opportunities, upcoming events and the people who make our mission possible. Whether you're a volunteer, donor, veteran or simply someone who believes in the
- [Registration is Now Open for the 6th Annual Puppy Jake Classic](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/registration-is-now-open-for-the-6th-annual-puppy-jake-classic/) - One Day on the Golf Course. A Lifetime of Independence. For most golfers, a day on the course is about enjoying time with friends and a little friendly competition. At the Puppy Jake Classic, it's also about changing the life of a military veteran. Every golfer, sponsor, volunteer, and donor helps Puppy Jake Foundation provide
- [We have a breeder!](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/we-have-a-breeder/) - Allye has gotten the green light to be a breeder! Yay! Oh, heck, what have we done? Finding quality, well-bred puppies is tough. Every five months our assistant lead trainer scours the country to find the best dog breeders who understand what takes for a puppy to grow into a service dog. Sometimes it works
- [More Than $150,000 Raised, Key Supporters Honored at Annual Gala](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/more-than-150000-raised-key-supporters-honored-at-annual-gala/) - Puppy Jake Foundation raised more than $150,000 to support its mission of providing service dogs to military veterans during its sold-out annual Gala in May. The organization also recognized several outstanding individuals and organizations whose dedication, leadership, and support have helped advance Puppy Jake Foundation’s mission of providing professionally trained service dogs to veterans at no cost.
- [2025 Impact Report: A Year of Growth, Impact, and New Opportunities](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/2025-impact-report-a-year-of-growth-impact-and-new-opportunities/) - At Puppy Jake Foundation, every service dog represents hundreds of hours of training, countless volunteer efforts, and a shared commitment to helping veterans gain greater independence. In 2025, that commitment led to some exciting milestones. We successfully earned reaccreditation through Assistance Dogs International (ADI), reaffirming our dedication to the highest standards in service dog training.
- [Gala Silent Auction Now Live](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/gala-silent-auction-now-live/) - The Puppy Jake Foundation Gala returns May 20 with an exciting evening of community, fundraising, and incredible auction items — and you do not need to attend in person to take part in the fun. The online silent auction is officially open to the public, giving supporters across Iowa the opportunity to bid on one-of-a-kind
- [April Newsletter: When Every Dog’s Path Matters](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/april-newsletter-when-every-dogs-path-matters/) - At Puppy Jake Foundation, training a service dog is never a one-size-fits-all journey. In this month’s Pupdates, we share a closer look at the thoughtful decisions that guide each dog through our program. Not every dog is meant for service work, and recognizing early “red flags” allows our trainers to make the best possible decision for
- [It's a time of transition for our service dogs in training](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/its-a-time-of-transition-for-our-service-dogs-in-training/) - At Puppy Jake Foundation, we do things a little differently, and that is by design. Transition is one of those moments that invites reflection. It is a chance to look at how far we have come and where we are headed next. In our program, transition is when everything moves forward at once. Dogs advance
- [Choosing dogs to go to Newton Correctional Facility](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/choosing-dogs-to-go-to-newton-correctional-facility/) - One of the questions we hear often is: How do you decide which dogs go to the Newton Correctional Facility? Before we get into that, it’s helpful to understand that the dogs in our prison program are typically in Phase 2 of training, generally between 7 and 10 months old. This is a key stage in
- [March Issue of Pupdates Available](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/march-issue-of-pupdates-available/) - At Puppy Jake, we believe in the power of a wagging tail and the unbreakable bond between a veteran and their service dog. Since 2014, we have been committed to raising, training, and placing service dogs with veterans in need to help them unleash their independence. With each edition of this newsletter, you’ll find heartwarming
- [Working Through Red Flags: How We Make Thoughtful Training Decisions](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/working-through-red-flags-how-we-make-thoughtful-training-decisions/) - In every service dog in training’s journey, there are moments that ask us to pause, evaluate and make thoughtful decisions. These moments, what we often call “red flags,” are not failures. They are opportunities to better understand a dog and determine the best path forward. Recently, two of our dogs in training, Allye and Cubby,
- [When a Dog Finds a Different Path: Our “Fabulous Flunkies”](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/when-a-dog-finds-a-different-path-our-fabulous-flunkies/) - At Puppy Jake Foundation, every dog who enters training does so with the goal of becoming a service dog for a veteran. These dogs are carefully bred, thoughtfully raised, and supported through a structured training program designed to prepare them for a very important job. Sometimes, despite everyone’s best efforts, a dog’s journey takes a
- [February Pupdates: Growth, Standards, and Strengthening Service Dog Teams](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/february-pupdates-growth-standards-and-strengthening-service-dog-teams/) - As we move through the early months of the year, we’re grateful for the community that makes Puppy Jake Foundation’s mission possible. Because of you, we continue training high-quality service dogs for veterans and expanding programs that strengthen the relationship between a veteran and his or her dog. Reaccredited by Assistance Dogs International We are
- [Golden Rule: A Partnership That Gives Back](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/golden-rule-a-partnership-that-gives-back/) - Golden Rule Plumbing, Heating and Cooling understands the value of service—both in homes across Central Iowa and in the lives of those who have served our country. We’re grateful for their commitment to strengthening our mission and helping us continue training exceptional service dogs for veterans.From February 12 through March 1, Golden Rule is offering something
- [Puppy Jake Receives ADI Reaccreditation](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/puppy-jake-receives-adi-reaccreditation/) - Puppy Jake Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to training service dogs for veterans, is pleased to announce that it achieved reaccreditation by Assistance Dogs International (ADI), the leading authority in the assistance dog industry. ADI establishes and promotes standards of excellence in all areas of assistance dog acquisition, training, and partnership. Puppy Jake is the only
- [Rotary Club of Des Moines Awards Puppy Jake $50,000 Community Service Grant](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/rotary-club-of-des-moines-awards-puppy-jake-50000-community-service-grant/) - We are thrilled to share exciting news that directly strengthens our mission to provide highly trained service dogs to military veterans: the Rotary Club of Des Moines has awarded Puppy Jake Foundation a $50,000 Community Service Grant to purchase a new transport van for our dogs and trainers. This annual grant from the Rotary Club supports organizations
- [Allen Lazard Chooses Puppy Jake Foundation for His 2025 My Cause My Cleats ](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/allen-lazard-chooses-puppy-jake-foundation-for-his-2025-my-cause-my-cleats/) - Each December, NFL fans look forward to My Cause My Cleats, the league’s annual moment when players step onto the field wearing custom-designed cleats that showcase the causes closest to their hearts. This year, New York Jets wide receiver Allen Lazard is once again using his platform to bring national attention to a mission that means a great deal
- [Puppy Jake Foundation Acquires Canine Craze](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/puppy-jake-foundation-acquires-canine-craze/) - New partnership strengthens capacity for growth of the service dog program, as well as expands program for the pet dog and veteran communities Puppy Jake Foundation, the nonprofit dedicated to providing professionally trained service dogs to veterans, is excited to announce the purchase of Canine Craze, a long-time, well-respected training center for pet dogs in the Des
- [First e-newsletter published](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/first-e-newsletter-published/) - In case you didn't see it. Our first newsletter is out! This update includes: recognizing the winners from the 5th Annual Puppy Jake Classic, why we re-career dogs, a list of events and more! Click here to read Sit.Stay.Serve. Pupdates from Puppy Jake.
- [5th Annual Puppy Jake Classic raises almost $50,000](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/5th-annual-puppy-jake-classic-raises-almost-50000/) - Through the support of more than 80 golfers, 50 volunteers and our generous hole sponsors, the 5th Annual Puppy Jake Classic raised almost $50,000 for raising and training service dogs for veterans. It might have been a little warm, but that did not deter from a good time! We appreciate the staff at Toad Valley Golf
- [Last stop: The Training Trip](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/last-stop-the-training-trip/) - Service dog in training, Winston, just completed a weekend training trip to Boston with our Lead Trainer Renee Moore and Assistant Lead Trainer Rhonda Stuhrenberg. It was a classic planes, trains and automobile trip to test whether he had the patience and skills to work in an unfamiliar, chaotic public place. He passed with flying colors.
- [The hardest part of the ADA Service Dog Law: Asking a service dog to leave a public place](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/the-hardest-part-of-the-ada-service-dog-law-asking-a-service-dog-to-leave-a-public-place/) - We are frustrated. In the past 10 years, we have had to retire two service dogs because they were attacked by other “service dogs” in public. We use “service dogs” in quotes because the dogs had vests and the owners yelled it’s a service dog. We doubt it. Ever gone to the grocery store and watched
- [Three Dogs Graduate, Three Retire](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/three-dogs-graduate-three-retire/) - On Saturday, January 11, Puppy Jake celebrated the graduation of three service dog teams, plus the unvesting, or the retirement, of three teams. For more than 10 years, Puppy Jake has been training service dogs for veterans at no cost. With more than 50 teams placed in that time, some of the first dogs are
- [It's not a muzzle (but it is important)](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/its-not-a-muzzle-but-it-is-important/) - If you’ve seen a service dog out in public, you may have noticed some of them wearing something that looks a little like a muzzle. It’s called a Gentle Leader (sometimes called a head halter or head halti), and it’s actually a very important training and safety tool. We often hear questions like: “Why is that dog wearing
- [Celebrating New Service Dog Teams](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/celebrating-new-service-dog-teams/) - At Puppy Jake Foundation, every graduation is the start of a new chapter filled with hope, healing and partnership. Each of these matches represents countless hours of training, the dedication of our fosters and volunteers, and the courage of our veterans who open their hearts to a new companion. Today, we’re thrilled to introduce you
- [Why we re-career dogs](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/why-we-re-career-dogs/) - We recently re-careered two dogs. One was a puppy, and the other was a Phase 3 service dog in training. Let’s start with the Phase 3 dog. The decision to re-career a dog completely out of the program at this point in training is not taken lightly. There is a lot of time and money
- [Prairie Meadows Donates $15,000 to Puppy Jake](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/prairie-meadows-donates-15000-to-puppy-jake/) - Prairie Meadows recently awarded Puppy Jake Foundation a Betterment Grant totaling $15,000. The grant will help fund their service dogs for veterans program. Prairie Meadows is a nonprofit organization dedicated to lessening the burden of government by promoting economic development, jobs, agriculture, and tourism in the state of Iowa. “We are honored to be selected as

## Pages

- [Home](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/) - Discover Puppy Jake Foundation: help us connect veterans with the best-trained service dogs in Iowa with donation and volunteer opportunities
- [Service Dogs](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/service-dogs/) - Is a service dog right for you? Apply for a trained service dog or Dog Perfect training for pet dogs taught by a veteran.
- [About Us](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/about-us/) - Discover our story, our mission, our team, and our commitment to serving veterans with highly trained service dogs. Support our mission by spreading the word.
- [Financial Information](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/financial-information/) - Financial Information Puppy Jake Foundation is pleased to provide on the website, for easy access, the following financial information: In the spirit of transparency, Puppy Jake Foundation lists relevant financial reports for public access. 2024 990 2023 990 2022 990 2021 990 2025 Annual Report 2024 Annual Report 2023 Annual Report 2021 Annual Report 2020
- [Other Ways to Give](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/other-ways-to-give/) - Organize Fundraising The first $300 raised for Puppy Jake was by an enterprising 6th grader who ran hot chocolate stands at elementary school concerts and at the foot of his parent’s driveway. Since thousands of dollars have been raised by individuals and businesses who host an event on our behalf. Host an online event. The most
- [Give](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/give/) - Donate today to make a difference for veterans by supporting them with a highly skilled service dog, trained to match their Individual needs.
- [Board & Staff](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/the-pack/) - The Pack Meet the Board Mathew Mitchell Board President Baton Global Matthew Mitchell, PhD, is an associate professor of international business and strategy at Drake University, as well as CEO of Baton Global, which offers a range of services to help organizations develop and implement strategies to increase the value they provide their clients. He
- [Partners](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/partners/) - Partners Thank you forpartnering with PJF Donors and volunteers are the backbone of Puppy Jake, which allows us to provide service dogs to veterans without charge. Every gift, large or small, helps us train and place service dogs with veterans who need them most. To our donors, sponsors, and community partners: thank you. Your support provides not
- [Veteran Application](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/veteran-application/) - Are you a veteran that has physical and/or mental disabilities from your service? Apply for a service dog today by filling out the Veteran Application of Interest form.
- [Host a Fundraiser](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/host-a-fundraiser/) - Fundraisers make a huge difference in our ability to help improve the lives of veterans, from bake sales to golf tournaments. We’re happy to have you!
- [2025 Donors](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/2025-donors/) - 2025 Donors Donations completed January 1st through December 31st, 2025 are reflected here. $50,000 Jared and Elaine Johnson Rotary Club of Des Moines $20,000 + Anonymous Gabus Family Foundation Hy-Vee Linda Hofreiter MidAmerican Energy Foundation Susan Burroughs Susan Moore $10,000 - $19,999 American Humane Neupert Family Foundation Prairie Meadows Susan Beasley Sharron Martin Van Meter,
- [Tributes](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/tributes/) - Tributes A Living Legacy Each tribute and memorial supports the training and placement of highly skilled service dogs for America’s heroes. Through your generosity, a legacy of love, strength, and service continues—bringing comfort and independence to veterans who need it most.Every tribute tells a story. Every story helps a veteran. 2025 Tributes & Memorials In
- [News](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/news/) - Keep up to date on the latest news and updates about our foundation, changes in the service dog industry and more! Looking for more information? Contact us.
- [2024 Donors](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/2024-donors/) - 2024 Donors Thank you to our donors, who help Puppy Jake Improve the lives of Veterans each year! $20,000 + Greater Des Moines Partnership JEJ Charitable Foundation MidAmerican Energy Foundation Susan B. Moore Foundation Hy-Vee $10,000 - $19,999 Cargill Jennifer Cornell Graphite Construction Delta Dental of Iowa Hot Spring Spas Sharron Martin Neupert Family Foundation
- [Volunteer](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/volunteer/) - We use volunteers to foster and train dogs, staff events, transport dogs to appointments, and so much more we haven’t even thought of yet. Volunteer today!
- [Get Involved](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/get-involved/) - Get involved with Puppy Jake Foundation. Donate, volunteer, fundraise. Help your way.
- [Tail Wagging Tales](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/tail-wagging-tales/) - Tail Wagging tales Real stories abouthow our dogs havemade a difference Finding Her Calm During her time in the transition battalion, Megan hit a point lower than she’d ever Read More » August 10, 2026 Hear the Birds Sing Again Before Chips, Sean describes life as a stretch of failing at nearly every relationship in
- [Dog Perfect](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/dog-perfect/) - Qualifications This class is open to veterans and their families. Dogs should be between the ages of four months and five years old. If you are considering the Owner Trained Service Dogs track, the dog cannot be older than three years old. If you are taking this class to begin your service dog in training
- [Upcoming Events](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/upcoming-events/) - Learn more about us, find out about fostering, or have just fun and show your support at a fundraiser. There's something for everyone, find an upcoming event!
- [Contact Us](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/contact-us/) - Have a question about the foundation, looking for more info on volunteering, fostering, donating, or receiving a service dog? Feel free to contact us!
- [Frequently Asked Questions](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/frequently-asked-questions/) - Frequently Asked Questions Is my donation to Puppy Jake Foundation tax deductible? YES, PJF is a 501(c)(3) non profit organization dedicated to providing professionally trained service dogs to wounded military veterans. The Tax ID is: #46-1187854. When was Puppy Jake Foundation started? PJF was founded in February 2013. What specifically are some of the skills
- [Policies & Disclosures](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/policies-and-disclosures/) - Policies & Disclosures Puppy Jake Foundation is pleased to provide on the website, for easy access, the following policies: Puppy Jake Foundation has listed these policies & disclosures for public access to inform visitors on our standards and practices. Equal Opportunity Policy Non-Active Service Policy Anti-Discrimination Policy Anti-Harassment Policy Complaint Notification Policy Confidentiality Policy Conflict
- [At-Home Policies](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/at-home-policies/) - At-Home Policies Puppy Jake Foundation is pleased to provide on the website, for easy access, the following policies: Puppy Jake Foundation has put the listed policies in place in order to protect the safety and well being of service dogs in foster, sitter, and veteran homes. They also serve to educate veterans and individuals of
- [Owner Trained Service Dogs](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/owner-trained-service-dogs/) - HANDLER/OWNER TRAINED SERVICE DOG Does your dog havewhat is takesto serve you? Time and again, we have found the connection between canine and human to be strong – strong enough to be trained to assist in a meaningful way. In Handler/Owner Trained, the veteran comes to us with a pet dog between four months and
- [Event Calendar](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/event-calendar/)

## Events

- [New Session of Training Fundamentals 101 Starts Sept. 12](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/event/training-fundamentals-101-start-sept-12/) - Training Fundamentals 101, a three-week educational series designed to introduce volunteers and supporters to the core principles of Puppy Jake’s service dog program.
- [Training Fundamentals 201 Begins Saturday, October 3 at 11:30 a.m.](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/event/training-fundamentals-begins-saturday-oct-3/) - This is the second training session for volunteers who want to learn more about fostering and puppy sitting.
- [6th Annual Puppy Classic](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/event/6th-annual-puppy-classic/) - Join Puppy Jake Foundation for a four-person scramble benefiting our mission of providing professionally trained service dogs to military veterans at no cost. Enjoy golf, contests, lunch, prizes, and our new K-9 Challenge Holes featuring Puppy Jake service dogs in training. Toad Valley Golf Course | Pleasant Hill, Iowa Shotgun Start: 9 a.m. Registration Deadline:

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/category/uncategorized/)
- [Tail Wagging Tales](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/category/tail-wagging-tales/)
- [News and Updates](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/category/news-and-updates/)

## Tags

- [veteran's stories](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/tag/veterans-stories/)
- [Funding](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/tag/funding/)
- [General Info](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/tag/general-info/)
- [Graduation](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/tag/graduation/)
- [Veterans](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/tag/veterans/)
- [ADA](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/tag/ada/)
- [Service Dogs](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/tag/service-dogs/)
- [PJF Training](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/tag/pjf-training/)
- [Fundraising](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/tag/fundraising/)
- [Classes](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/tag/classes/)
- [Volunteers](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/tag/volunteers/)
- [Mental Health Journey](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/tag/mental-health-journey/)
- [Mental Health Awareness](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/tag/mental-health-awareness/)
- [Fabulous Flunkies](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/tag/fabulous-flunkies/)
- [Medical Alert](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/tag/medical-alert/)

## Event Categories

- [Fundraiser](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/events/category/fundraiser/)
- [Volunteer Training](https://puppyjakefoundation.org/events/category/volunteer-training/)