Train a Dog, Save a Warrior

The ‘Train a Dog – Save a Warrior’ (TADSAW) program makes it the responsibility of the Dog Trainer to use positive reinforced training methods during the training period with the Veteran and dog. TADSAW wants to assure that the human-canine bond will build and strengthen over the training period of 15 to 25 weeks, and continue after the last lesson, the TADSAW Public Access Temperament Test (PATT). However, many people do not realize that a Service Dog is in-training every day that the Team goes out into the public, long after the final lesson. From obedience training, to specialized tasks being taught, to learning how to interpret and proactively respond to the dog’s body language, are all parts of the TADSAW program, and is the responsibility of the Trainer. The TADSAW philosophy is “Together you train to hone your skills and Bond as a Team.” Another unique TADSAW concept, based upon Military training methods, is ‘Plan – Prepare - Engage’, prior to attempting the objective, in order to increase the probability of successfully completing the mission.

The program is a one-time training, for the majority of applicants. When the need to replace the older Service Dog with a new and younger version is necessary; the warrior has the skills to train the second, third and future Service Dogs, without waiting for an organization to replace the previous dog. The only lesson required is the scheduling of the TADSAW PATT for the final accreditation of the Service

TADSAW Dog Team. This is the “Lifetime Investment Lesson” you have provided for the warrior.

There is no actual follow-up or re-certifying of the Team, because the Team has trained well enough to pass the PATT and is going out daily. If there is a problem, the veteran will contact TADSAW or the Trainer directly, to address the problem and determine the solution and correct the problem.

From July 2010 thru September 2nd 2016, TADSAW, INC. has provided over 8100 applications to individuals, accredited 593 TADSAW Service Dog Teams, including 73 Vietnam War Veteran Service Dog Teams, and has over 750 Teams currently in-training, or ready to begin, through-out the United States and Puerto Rico. This means the Quality of Life for over 1200 veterans and shelter dogs, their families, their neighborhoods and their communities has changed for the better.

Currently in 2016, over 1330 applications have been mailed out, over 610 completed ready to start training, 105 Service Dog Teams accredited, including 12 Vietnam Veteran Service Dog Teams and TADSAW’s first Korean War Veteran Service Dog Team in the program!!!! NOW is the time to react and get involved. Please visit our website: www.tadsaw.org to read and learn more about the Veterans and their Battle Buddies. TADSAW INC, EIN:45-4556055 is a participating member in the GuideStar Exchange.

Thank You for your time and the opportunity to provide you information about the TADSAW program.