The program will feed 85-95 dogs in training plus provide support for 250 puppy-raisers, 100 active volunteers and over 30 veterinary practices affiliated with NEADS.
History of NEADS service dogs
Established in 1976, NEADS trains Service Dogs to bring greater freedom, physical autonomy and relief to clients who are deaf or have a physical disability. Over the past 40 years, NEADS has trained and successfully matched over 1,700 Service Dogs nationwide to assist clients in working roles.
Service dogs in training in New England are placed with veterans and clients across the country. NEADS graduation events in the fall and spring attract more than 900 attendees.
“Blue Buffalo is honored to help veterans and clients at NEADS with the care and feeding of these highly trained service dogs,” said David Petrie, president of the Blue Buffalo Foundation, in a press release. “It is a privilege to support a community of professionals with world class service dogs that empower clients on their quest for independence.”
NEADS is accredited by Assistance Dogs International and offers services for veterans, clients with hearing and physical disabilities, children with special needs, and partnerships for teachers, therapists and ministries that aid those with physical disabilities.
While dogs and cats continue to reign supreme, the growth of the “other” pet space can’t be denied: 9.9 million homes own a bird, 6.2 million homes have a small pet (usually small mammals) and 5.7 million homes own a reptile.
