Help that finds you back.
Answer one or two plain questions and this app points you to the right door — a real phone number, a real program, in the right order. No maze, no jargon, no account to make.
I need help with…
Tap what is closest. Two quick questions, then your doors.
Every door, in one list
national programs and organizations for veterans. Search by name or need — try “GI Bill,” “housing,” or “dog.”
Nothing matches that search
No doors found for “.” Check the spelling, or try a shorter word like “housing,” “claim,” or “job.”
Service dogs for veterans
What they do, what the law protects, how to get one — and how to spot a scam.
Is a service dog right for me?
What a service dog actually does
A service dog is trained for specific tasks tied to a disability. For veterans, common tasks include:
For PTSD and anxiety: creating space in crowds, interrupting nightmares and panic, grounding during episodes, checking a room before you enter, and leading you to an exit.
For mobility: balance support, retrieving dropped items, opening doors, and helping with transfers.
For medical needs: alerting to seizures, blood-sugar changes, or oncoming episodes, and bringing medication.
The dog works in public because the tasks go where you go. That is the whole point — and it is what the law protects.
Service dog vs. emotional support animal vs. therapy dog
| Service dog | Emotional support animal | Therapy dog | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trained tasks | Yes — tasks tied to a disability | No task training; comfort by presence | Trained to comfort other people in facilities |
| Public access | Protected under the ADA — allowed where the public goes | No public access right under the ADA | Only where invited (hospitals, schools, visits) |
| Housing | Protected | Reasonable accommodation may apply under housing law | No special housing right |
| Who it serves | One handler with a disability | Its owner | Many people, with a volunteer handler |
Businesses may ask only two questions: is this a service animal required because of a disability, and what task is it trained to do? They may not demand papers, a vest, or a demonstration.
How to get one — the honest path
1. Start with the VA. The VA does not provide service dogs, but your VA clinician can evaluate whether a dog fits your treatment plan and can document your need — the letter most programs ask for. The VA may cover veterinary care and equipment for dogs obtained through accredited programs for certain disabilities.
2. Apply to an accredited nonprofit. Organizations like K9s For Warriors and America’s VetDogs place trained dogs with veterans at no cost to the veteran. Look for ADI (Assistance Dogs International) accreditation.
3. Expect a wait. Demand is high and good training takes time — waits of many months to over a year are common. Apply early, apply to more than one program, and keep your paperwork ready. Use the 7-step checklist in “My checklist” to stay on track.
4. Owner-training is legal but hard. The ADA allows training your own dog, but most veterans find an accredited program’s dog, training, and follow-up support the steadier road.
Programs that place dogs with veterans
My checklist
Work the steps at your pace. Tap a step to mark it done — tap again to undo it. Your marks stay saved on this device.
Benefits — the core claims and programs
0 of 8 done
Service dog — application path
0 of 7 done
Saved doors
The doors you bookmarked, kept on this device for your next visit.
Nothing saved yet
When you find a door you want to keep, tap “Save” on it — it will wait for you here.