Why We Use Labs
While many breeds are excellent candidates for assistance dog work, Labrador retrievers are the most widely utilized breed around the world… and for good reason! Learn more about why FSD primarily utilizes Labs (as well as golden retrievers and Lab/golden crosses) in our program.
Sean & Cooper
In the spring of 2024, FSD Professional Therapy Dog Cooper began his new role as an official deputy with the Isanti County Sheriff’s Office with his partner, Investigator Sean. Together, Sean and Cooper are making a significant impact by providing comfort and stress relief to victims amidst mental health crisis, domestic and sexual violence, tragedies, critical incidents, death notifications, and during jury trials.
Freedom Service Dog in training survives rattlesnake bite
Nana, a 1-year-old golden retriever puppy in training to become a Freedom Service Dog, recently faced a harrowing ordeal.
Freedom on the Slopes
In the spirit of the 2024 Paris Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games, we are proud to share the inspiring story of FSD graduate and U.S. Marine Corps veteran James, who competed in Men’s Snowboarding in the Pyeongchang 2018 Paralympic Winter Games. Now, Freedom Service Dog Zena is an everyday game changer in James’s life.
FSD Skilled Companion Dogs
At Freedom Service Dogs, we believe dogs can make a profound difference in people’s daily lives. We purposefully place each dog where they can have the greatest impact, where both human and dog benefit from a lasting partnership.
Kyle & Merengue
After dedicating 18 years to the Army as a lieutenant colonel, Kyle found civilian life to be another uncharted battle. Struggling with the effects of PTSD and a brain tumor, Kyle and his family were in need of a lifeline. When they discovered Freedom Service Dogs, a spark of hope reignited for the first time in a long time.
Fostering Kindness
Our FSD volunteers are all heart! Valuing kindness and generosity, Leslie Berry and her family are just one shining example of the incredible compassion of our community. Read about the Berry family and the profound impact they are making through their involvement with FSD and fostering children.
Volunteer of the Year: Jon Cavanaugh
For Jon, being an FSD foster is much more than volunteering—it’s a profound joy. Since joining the FSD community, Jon has impressively fostered more than 80 service dog hopefuls, proving that heartfelt commitment and dedication can truly make a lasting difference.
Kristin & Boogie
“We’re giving back to FSD, but we’re also getting so much in return. We love raising puppies, and we don’t plan on stopping,” says FSD client and puppy raiser, Kristin.
