Welcome to
American Trained Service Dogs
Help Veterans, Healthcare workers, Students regain hope and security after visible or invisible trauma.
About American Trained Service Dogs
Our Mission: A Path to Healing and Hope
At American Trained Service Dogs, we are dedicated to serving those who have selflessly served our country. We know that the scars of military service aren't always visible. For many of our brave veterans, the daily struggle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can be an isolating and overwhelming battle.
Our mission is to provide a powerful and proven path to healing by pairing veterans with specially trained PTSD service dogs. These incredible canines are more than just companions; they are life-saving partners, custom-trained to perform specific tasks that mitigate the symptoms of PTSD.
A Partnership Built on Trust and Transformation
We understand that true healing comes from a foundation of trust. That's why we don't just place dogs—we create teams. Our comprehensive program is designed to build an unwavering bond between a veteran and their service dog.
Each of our dogs undergoes rigorous training to perform tasks such as:
- Nightmare Interruption: Waking a veteran from a terrifying nightmare.
- Anxiety and Panic Interruption: Nudging or pawing their handler to break the cycle of a panic attack.
- Deep Pressure Therapy (DPT): Applying calming weight to their handler to provide a sense of grounding and security.
- "Cover My Six" (Creating Space): Positioning themselves to provide a physical barrier in public, reducing hypervigilance and anxiety in crowded spaces.
- Alerting to Triggers: Notifying their handler of rising stress or anxiety before an episode escalates.
More Than a Dog: A New Beginning
The impact of a PTSD service dog goes far beyond these tasks. For our veterans, this partnership represents a new beginning. They rediscover a sense of purpose, reclaim their independence, and find the confidence to re-engage with their families and communities. The unconditional love and steadfast support of a service dog can reduce reliance on medication, improve sleep, and most importantly, restore a sense of hope that may have been lost.
Join Our Journey
We are proud to be a part of the solution to the veteran suicide crisis and the struggle with invisible wounds. By providing these life-changing service dogs at no cost to our veterans, we honor their sacrifice and empower them to live the full and independent lives they deserve.
Together, we are changing lives, one team at a time.
Our 2024-25 Teams
Lives Transformed: Celebrating Our 2024 & 2025 Service Dog Teams
At American Trained Service Dogs, we believe in the profound power of the human-animal bond, especially when it comes to the life-changing partnership of a service dog team. The years 2024 and 2025 have been exceptionally rewarding, witnessing the successful placement of incredible service dogs with both men and women handlers, creating pairs that truly redefine independence and possibility.
A Testament to Our Mission:
Every wagging tail, every focused gaze, and every perfectly executed task from our 2024 and 2025 service dog teams is a testament to our unwavering dedication. We take immense pride in our meticulous matching process, ensuring that each dog's unique skills and temperament perfectly align with the specific needs and lifestyle of their handler. This thoughtful pairing is the cornerstone of the profound success we've witnessed.
Changing Lives, One Paw at a Time:
The impact of these partnerships extends far beyond assistance with daily tasks. We've seen firsthand how our service dogs empower their handlers to:
- Regain independence: From navigating public spaces with newfound confidence to performing crucial daily routines, our teams are living proof of enhanced autonomy.
- Improve emotional well-being: The unconditional companionship and unwavering support of a service dog provide comfort, reduce anxiety, and foster a sense of security.
- Reconnect with their communities: Our handlers are more engaged and active, participating in activities and building relationships they once thought impossible.
- Experience a renewed sense of purpose: The bond with a service dog often ignites a powerful drive, leading to personal growth and the pursuit of long-held dreams.
Hear from Our Thriving Teams:
While we protect the privacy of our handlers, their stories resonate deeply within our organization. We've celebrated countless milestones, from a veteran finding peace from PTSD symptoms, to an individual with a mobility impairment gaining the freedom to explore the outdoors. These partnerships are a source of immense joy and inspiration, showcasing the incredible resilience of the human spirit when paired with a dedicated canine partner.
Join Us in Celebrating Success:
The success of our 2024 and 2025 placements underscores the vital importance of our work. We are committed to continuing our mission, pairing more individuals with the service dogs who will not only assist them but truly transform their lives.
Learn more about our incredible service dog teams and how you can support our mission to change lives.
Board of Directors 2024
April Wicinske- With a powerful blend of 20 years in marketing and advertising and a decade dedicated to non-profit management, April brings a unique skillset and unwavering passion to the founding of American Trained Service Dogs. As a mother of three, including a son who has partnered with a service dog, and two teens actively involved in raising agricultural animals, April's life is deeply intertwined with the profound bond between humans and animals. This personal connection, coupled with a desire to alleviate the suffering of those experiencing PTSD and medical trauma, fuels her commitment to ATSD's mission.
Jaclyn Tacoronte- is an award-winning publicist and marketing strategist, renowned for crafting compelling narratives and executing successful campaigns for both Fortune 500 giants and the dynamic artistic landscape. At jmtmedia.nyc, Jaclyn leverages a deep understanding of market trends and a global perspective, honed through a Masters in International Business, to achieve exceptional results.
Christine Hernandez- is a dedicated animal welfare advocate with over 24 years of experience working with animals. She holds a Master of Science in Psychology with advanced studies in Human Behavior, and is also a certified Vet Assistant through Ashworth College. Her passion for animals has led her to train animals at renowned institutions such as the San Antonio Zoo, San Antonio Aquarium, and Sea World of Texas!
Amanda Valdez- is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with a passion for helping individuals reach their full potential. Holding a Master's in Special Education from St. Mary's University, an undergraduate degree from UTSA, and BCBA certification from the University of North Texas, Amanda brings a comprehensive understanding of behavior analysis and special education to our board.
Angelique Gonzalez, is a dedicated educator within the San Antonio School District, committed to supporting English Language Learners and newcomers to the United States. Holding both a Bachelor's and Master's degree from UTSA - The University of Texas at San Antonio, Angelique brings extensive experience in English as a Second Language instruction and cultural integration to our board.
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Help Us Change Lives: Volunteer or Donate Today!
At American Trained Service Dogs, we believe in the healing power of a paw. We provide highly trained service dogs to veterans, first responders, healthcare workers, and full-time college students navigating the challenges of PTSD and other trauma diagnoses. These incredible dogs offer comfort, support, and a pathway to renewed independence. To continue our vital work, we rely on the generosity of our community.
You can make a profound difference by becoming a volunteer puppy raiser, providing a loving home and foundational training for a future service dog, or by making a donation to support our training programs and operational costs. Every contribution, big or small, helps us pair deserving individuals with their life-changing canine companions.
Join us in making a difference – together, we can bring hope and healing.
Shop for our pups or donate
Monthly Donations
Teams are created by your support. There is a proven psychological benefit to humans paired with a dog. Want to become a sponsor or monthly giver?
Moments of Hope are made possible by Community Partners.
We also have a WISH LIST on Amazon (CLICK HERE TO SHOP)