Liberty Service Dogs™ Training & Placement Program
One Bond Becomes a New Beginning
Building a meaningful partnership between a Veteran living with PTSD and a Service Dog takes time and a supportive environment. This two-week, immersive program on our Reno campus makes that possible.
Our dogs have already been through months of training. Now it’s the Veterans’ turn. Through the Liberty Service Dogs™ Training & Placement Program, both Veteran and dog will gain a companion, a personalized plan for continuing at home, and a support system that doesn’t expire. Provided at no cost.
Live on Campus, Focus on Your Dog
What to Expect
Every day on campus follows a clear path, building toward the moment you and your Service Dog walk across the graduation stage together.
All participating Veterans stay on campus for the full two weeks. Housing, meals prepared by our chefs, and around-the-clock support are included.
Week 1 of Training & Placement
Laying the Groundwork & Matching
Your first days on campus are spent working with several dogs through guided rotations while our instructors observe. By midweek, you’ll be matched and start working with your Service Dog.
The rest of the week focuses on learning how your dog communicates, practicing obedience, and getting comfortable with daily care. By the weekend, you'll embark on your first real-world outing together with expert coaching.
Week 2 of Training & Placement
Building Confidence & Independence
You and your dog will train in increasingly challenging environments and practice PTSD-specific tasks like deep-pressure therapy and nightmare interruption. You'll also connect with other Liberty Dogs departments to learn about the resources available to you after graduation.
The week ends with evaluations, a public access test, and a graduation ceremony, where you’ll celebrate with loved ones, volunteers, and staff.
