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Operation: Battle Buddy K9 - Your Path to Partnership

  • 6 Steps

About

Operation: Battle Buddy K9 - Your Path to Partnership is a transformative online course designed for military veterans seeking to train service dogs in a healing journey. This course provides a holistic approach to combat social isolation and enhance mental well-being through a unique mutual rescue model. Participants will gain valuable insights into dog training techniques, the emotional benefits of canine companionship, and the importance of community support. By engaging in hands-on activities and learning from experienced facilitators, veterans will leave equipped with the skills and knowledge to effectively train their service dogs while building a lasting bond. Join us to embark on a six-month journey that fosters healing, connection, and empowerment, ultimately leading to a successful partnership with your service dog.

You can also join this program via the mobile app. Go to the app

Overview

Instructors

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Handler Training Goals

  • Clinical Literacy: Handlers must learn the science behind human-animal interaction and understand how service dogs specifically mitigate PTSD symptoms, such as nightmare interruption.

  • Program Commitment: Handlers are expected to navigate a six-month, three-phase curriculum requiring significant time investment and completion of weekly class requirements.

  • Administrative Management: Handlers must demonstrate the ability to use the digital portal to submit training manuals, certification paperwork, and weekly homework assignments.

  • Community Re-engagement: A primary goal is for handlers to transition from solitary isolation to active engagement within a group setting and the permanent alumni network.

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  • PTSD Symptom Mitigation: Canines must be trained in specific therapeutic components, such as nightmare interruption, to address the "invisible wounds of war".

  • Certification Readiness: Canines must successfully progress through all three phases of the curriculum to meet the requirements for official certification.

  • Public Integration: As part of a "veteran/dog team," the canine must be prepared to support the handler in community settings, facilitating the handler's transition back into social environments.

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  • The Battle Buddy Bond: The core objective is to restore the "Battle Buddy" support system, creating a reliable partnership that drives positive mental health outcomes.

  • Sustainability: Successful teams are encouraged to remain active in the alumni social hub to support new cohorts, creating a "virtuous cycle" of local veteran support in the Ozarks.

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Canine Training Goals

Joint Team Goals

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