Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a non-profit organization that trains and places service dogs with individuals who have physical disabilities or medical conditions. And the impact they have on these individuals’ lives is nothing short of incredible.
But here’s the thing, the story of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs isn’t just about the service dogs themselves. It’s about the people they help, the trainers who dedicate their lives to the cause, and the community that comes together to support them.
And trust me, you’re going to want to hear all about it.
You might think that training a service dog is a simple process, but you won’t believe the amount of dedication and hard work that goes into making sure each dog is ready to change someone’s life.
Are you ready to find out more?
Keep reading to discover the incredible work that Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is doing and how they are transforming lives every day.
Who is Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs?
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs (GAMSD) is a 501(c)3 organization based in Williston, Florida. It’s founded and led by Carol Borden with her dedicated Board of Directors, employees, and volunteers.
The organization rescues the highest-caliber dogs and provides them with the best medical care before undergoing training.
The dogs undergo positive reinforcement training until they are fit to become medical service or assistance dogs to military veterans and persons with disabilities.
This charity ensures each dog is a perfect match for the needs and lifestyle of the individual.
How Did Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Start?
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs started in 2010 when the founder and executive, Carol Borden, decided to make a change in society.
She knew that dogs deserve a purpose in life, and humans deserve to live in the most independent and comfortable way possible.
The organization was born for the charitable purpose of these five things.
- Service and Assistance. Rescuing, rehabilitating, and training the highest caliber assistance dogs.
- Highly Trained Service Dogs. Pairing dogs with individuals with disabilities and veterans with diverse struggles.
- Quality of Life. Building and restoring independence and improving the quality of life for both the recipient and the dog while reducing reliance on the government, communities, caregivers, and families.
- Training Practices. Advancing successful service dog training practices by promoting appropriate trainer education and scientific studies.
- Awareness & Education. Promoting public awareness about current laws on disabilities and pushing for more innovative ones.
This five-point mission shows a holistic way to provide service not only to persons with disabilities but also to dogs and the broader community.
It’s also the reason behind Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs’ success. Today, GAMSD continues to earn accolades and initiate projects for dogs and differently-abled people.
This year, the organization earned the HIRE Vets Medallion from the US Department of Labor. The CAO of the organization, Chris Ann Phillips, was also named Pittsburgh’s Veteran of the Year.
What Does Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Do?
Regardless of disability, Guardian Angels is determined to assist as many people as possible through their competent service dogs.
The organization trains medical service dogs to reduce the challenges of different disabilities.
Some disabilities include traumatic brain injury, seizures, post-traumatic stress disorder, diabetes, and mobility issues.
The entire process starts with care. From feeding, socializing, and providing medical care, Guardian Angels ensures each dog grows healthy, happy, and ready for rigorous training.
But don’t worry. GAMSD uses the best approaches when training these dogs. Everything is reward-based so that the furry friends continue enjoying their jobs.
Watch them in action.
If you’re interested in applying for a service dog, the organization has a comprehensive application process to qualify their recipients.
Answer their Service Dog Application Form and wait for a response.
How You Can Help Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs
Donations
Guardian Angels appreciates any gift to their company. You can join in their unleashing the power to heal by donating to the organization.
You have the option to pay one time or monthly to Guardian Angels. Head over to their donation page, and feel free to customize your gift.
Fundraisers
You can also consider fundraising. Check out their fundraising page for artistic ideas to get people to be involved in your efforts.
Volunteer
Guardian Angels also welcomes volunteers from all over the country. Fill out their volunteer application so you can join Puppy Hugger classes, and assist with fundraising or event planning.
Foster
One of the most important roles you can take part in is being a fosterparent. Raise future assistant dogs with the help of the organization.
Spread the Word
It costs nothing to follow Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. You can share their content, engage and spread the word.
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs has been changing the world little by little through their service dog program. Give them a helping hand.
Check out other like-minded organizations with the same mission for animals and humans.