Author Archives: Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc.

2019 Hero Dog of the Year Awarded to Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Alice

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is both humbled and honored to announce that on Friday, October 5, 2019 after more than a million public votes, our Service Dog, Alice; specifically trained to assist Recipient Antonio was named the 2019 Hero Dog of the Year in the American Humane Hero Dog Awards.

Alice has been watching over Antonio since 2016, after he tragically suffered a gunshot wound to the head at the age of nine, while sitting in his parents' car in 2015.

Since that day, Antonio has struggled through 5 brain surgeries, leaving him with a permanent traumatic brain injury, and an artificial flap that covers a large portion of his skull. He suffers regularly from seizures, spells, migraines and balance issues. Alice is at Antonio's side constantly, including attending school together; and she is focused on Antonio at all times. She not only alerts to oncoming seizures and spells, but assists him with balance issues, as a fall could potentially be fatal.

Seven truly incredible dogs were finalists for each category including: Sgt. Yeager: Military; Piglet: Search & Rescue; Leader Dog Lady: Guide/Hearing; Jeanie: Therapy; Gus: Shelter; Dax: Law Enforcement/Arson and of course, Alice in the Service Dog Category. We congratulate each category winner and recognize their incredible unique skillsets.

Alice completed nearly 2 years of unparalleled custom training to prepare for a life partnering with and assisting Antonio. Giving her acceptance speech, Antonio's Mom Tara said: "It's so incredible, we are truly honored to receive this award - I thank everybody who voted and showed support for my boy and Alice. Through a shooting, and something so dark, you forget to believe in humanity; but when something like this happens you start to learn that there is good in this world."

You can view the Hero Dog Awards in its entirety on the Hallmark Channel airing October 21, 2019. Check local listings for times in your area.

Guardian Angels, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit org, was founded in 2010, and custom-trains medical service dogs for veterans, first-responders and individuals like Antonio. Although the cost of training each service dog can take up to 2 full years, and cost nearly $25,000, we donate each dog to the recipient at no cost. Everything we do is funded by donation. To date, we have paired over 320 service dogs in 23 states across the nation.

If you would like to learn more about our organization, or support this life-saving work, visit our website at http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1008s2p-herodog-300dpi.jpg
*Caption: Carol Borden, Guardian Angels Founder & CEO; Antonio & his Service Dog, Alice, and Antonio's Mom, Tara at the Hero Dog Awards.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is both humbled and honored to announce that on Friday, October 5, 2019 after more than a million public votes, our Service Dog, Alice; specifically trained to assist Recipient Antonio was named the 2019 Hero Dog of the Year in the American Humane Hero Dog Awards.

Related link: https://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. Partners with SCI Mercer to Train Service Dogs for Veterans

PITTSBURGH, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- It is with great pleasure that Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs announces its latest partnership, with the Pennsylvania State Correctional Institution at Mercer. As part of our new partnership, incarcerated veterans will train some of our future service dogs, beginning at approximately 5 months of age, all while earning college credit.

The program is already underway, with our Founder & Chief Operating Officer, Carol Borden recently completing a full seven days of classes for the 12 selected incarcerated veterans, teaching them our comprehensive training regimen. While required to pass the written portion of the class with an 80% or better, we are proud to say that of the 12 participants, they all scored above 95%.

Now that they are ready to begin training, 4 young future service dogs are on their way to Mercer from our Florida headquarters and are scheduled to arrive at Mercer later this week.

Once they arrive, the dogs will remain with the inmates 24 hours a day, for several months, and will be participating daily in classes and public access-style learning adventures due to Mercer's unique design featuring a cafeteria, classrooms, hospital, auditorium, gymnasium, commissary and library - the conditions are perfect for re-creating public access-type scenarios for the dogs to train in.

The teams training dogs inside Mercer will be visited weekly or more by our Pennsylvania Regional Trainer, to ensure program compliance and monitor each dogs' progress as they go through our positive-reinforcement curriculum.

An additional key benefit of this program is that the selected incarcerated veterans will be earning college credits. This program will not only help the disabled Pennsylvania veterans who ultimately receive the donated service dogs; but it is teaching a new, marketable skillset and industry to those currently incarcerated.

"I have always been so inspired by the service and sacrifice of our American heroes," said Sen. Brooks, who worked for two years to bring the program to SCI Mercer. "The brotherhood that unites our veterans, and the healing power of a dog, have always impressed me as well. This transformative new program unites these special elements into one heart-warming support network, and is destined to produce benefits that will allow veterans to help other veterans in a life-changing way."

Asked about the new program, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Founder & CEO, Carol Borden said: "I couldn't be more excited about the magnificent start of this ground-breaking program. We expect great things - not only in the training of the dogs that will be donated to veterans in Pennsylvania; but that we will be giving the incarcerated veterans hope for a new future once they have served their time. By participating in this program, they are already serving their community".

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization founded in Williston, Florida and has grown into a nation-wide Service Dog Organization. We rescue, raise, train and donate individually trained medical service dogs to veterans, first responders and others who suffer from disabilities including PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, seizure disorders, diabetic alert, mobility issues and more. Guardian Angels receives up to 40 inquiries each day for one of their medical Service Dogs.

If you'd like to learn more about our programs, get involved, make a contribution, or be part of supporting this life-saving project please call 800-398-6102 or visit our website at: https://www.medicalservicedogs.org.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/19-1004s2p-gamsg-mercer-300dpi.jpg

*Caption: (L to R): Mr. Diaz, Rocky Bleier, former Steelers Professional Football Player, Senator Michelle Brooks, Secretary John Wetzel, Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, Carol Borden, Founder & CEO of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Melinda Adams, Superintendent of SCI Mercer, Dustin Schneider, Recipient and Guardian Angels Spangle, Gen. Schindler, Deputy Adjutant General, Veterans Affairs.

It is with great pleasure that Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs announces its latest partnership, with the Pennsylvania State Correctional Institution (SCI) at Mercer. As part of our new partnership, incarcerated veterans will train some of our future service dogs, beginning at approximately 5 months of age, all while earning college credit.

Related link: https://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

GMAR and Michigan State Police Trooper School Come Together to Sponsor Medical Service Dog

LANSING, Mich. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs announced that in February 2019, Sgt. McRae of the Michigan State Police Trooper Recruit School set a goal: to honor Michigan State Trooper Craig A. Scott; a military veteran who was killed in the line of duty after 7 years on the force in 1982.

Each recruit class creates a Hero WOD (workout of the day) for a fellow trooper and performs the Hero WOD at the gym. This 135th trooper recruit school added a fundraiser with an ambitious goal. To raise $25,000 to sponsor the training of a medical service dog for a deserving recipient.

The members of the 135th Trooper Recruit School were well on their way to that goal, raising $9,200 during a Hero WOD. That's when GMAR (The Greater Metropolitan Association of REALTORS(R)), reached out to help them complete their goal. GMAR has already been involved in raising funds for service dogs for several years, with their "5 Years, 5 Dogs, 5 Lives Saved" campaign, and they have previously completed sponsorship of Service Dogs Cobalt REALTOR(R) Blue, and Thor, and have future Service Dog Independence, currently in-training.

On Monday, August 12, 2019 the two came together, and GMAR presented a check to The Michigan State Police for $15,725 - covering the balance of the Trooper Recruit School's sponsorship.

The funds raised and contributed will be sent to Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization, that has raised and trained more than 320 service dogs for deserving individuals in need nationwide, predominantly for veterans and first-responders.

To date, Guardian Angels has paired more than 20 dogs in the State of Michigan. But the waiting list continues to grow. The number of both veterans and first-responders facing issues such as PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, Seizure and Diabetic disorders and mobility issues is steadily increasing, and it is the hope of the Michigan State Police and GMAR that this individually-trained medical service dog, yet named will greatly improve life for its future recipient.

Learn more at: https://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs announced that in February 2019, Sgt. McRae of the Michigan State Police Trooper Recruit School set a goal: to honor Michigan State Trooper Craig A. Scott; a military veteran who was killed in the line of duty after 7 years on the force in 1982.

Related link: https://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

2019 Service Dog Hero of the Year Awarded to Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Alice

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is excited to announce that on Friday, July 26, 2019 our Service Dog, Alice; specifically trained to assist Recipient Antonio was named the 2019 Service Dog Hero of the Year by more than 900,000 nationwide voters and the American Humane Societies' panel of judges.

Alice has been watching over Antonio since 2016, after he tragically suffered a gun-shot wound to the head at the age of nine, while sitting in his parents' car in 2015.

Since that day, Antonio has struggled through 5 brain surgeries, leaving him with a permanent traumatic brain injury, and an artificial flap that covers a large portion of his skull. He suffers regularly from seizures, spells, migraines and balance issues. Alice is at Antonio's side constantly, including attending school together; and she is focused on Antonio at all times. She not only alerts to oncoming seizures and spells, but assists him with balance issues, as a fall could potentially be fatal.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dog Alice completed nearly 2 years of unparalleled custom training to prepare for a life partnering with and assisting Antonio.

Antonio's mom Tara says: "Alice is a hero in our eyes because without her, Antonio would not be able to do the simple things in life we take for granted, like going to school, the store, or even just walking outside. She has never once failed in alerting and has saved Antonio's life many times. Alice has given Antonio a chance at a new normal life he did not have without her. The life that was ripped away for no reason. She has NEVER let him down. If that is not a hero, I don't know what is."

Now that Guardian Angels, Alice has claimed the top spot in the Service Dog Category, in October, Antonio and Alice will head to California, to take part in the LIVE 2019 Hero Dog Awards, being broadcast on the Hallmark Channel, to compete with the 6 other category winners for the title of "Hero Dog of the Year."

Voting will be open until September 9, 2019, and you can visit http://herodogawards.org/dog/alice/ to read their full story, and show them support with your vote!

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:
Guardian Angels, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, was founded in 2010, and custom-trains medical service dogs for veterans, first-responders and individuals like Antonio. Although the cost of training each service dog can take up to 2 full years, and cost nearly $25,000, we donate each dog to the recipient at no cost. We receive no federal or state funding. Everything we do is funded completely by private and foundation donations. To date, we have paired over 320 service dogs in 23 states across the nation.

If you would like to learn more about our organization, or become a supporter, visit our website at https://www.medicalservicedogs.org/.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is excited to announce that on Friday, July 26, 2019 our Service Dog, Alice; specifically trained to assist Recipient Antonio was named the 2019 Service Dog Hero of the Year by more than 900,000 nationwide voters and the American Humane Societies' panel of judges.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Awarded Grant from The William H. Donner Foundation

WILLISTON, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is proud to announce that on June 4, 2019, the William H. Donner Foundation announced a grant award in the amount of $25,000 to our organization. We are humbled to report that this is the fourth year receiving a grant from the William H. Donner Foundation.

These valuable funds will be put straight to work, to help us train a medical service dog for a deserving veteran in need.

The William H. Donner Foundation currently has interests in areas as diverse as: Animal Welfare, Arts and Culture, Children at Risk, Development, Domestic Public Policy, Education, Environment, Foreign and Defense Policy, Human Rights, Science, Veterans, and Women's Issues among many others.

Guardian Angels Founder & CEO, Carol Borden stated: "On behalf of the disabled veterans we serve, I wish to extend my deepest appreciation for the continued support from the William H. Donner Foundation for recognizing the tremendous need to take care of our veterans. Because of your generosity, we are able to provide long term care to another deserving American hero."

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) with a mission to rescue, raise, train and then donate the finest medical service dogs to veterans and others who struggle with the effects of a disability such as PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, seizure & diabetic disorders and mobility issues. Since 2010, we have donated nearly 350 individually trained, federally protected medical service dogs to those in need.

With up to 1,500 hours of training per dog, it is a long process, but worth every moment when you see the results of Unleashing the Power to Heal, and the life-saving, life-changing difference it makes for our recipients.

For more information on our program, please visit our website at: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is proud to announce that on June 4, 2019, the William H. Donner Foundation announced a grant award in the amount of $25,000 to our organization. We are humbled to report that this is the fourth year receiving a grant from the William H. Donner Foundation.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Jim Rooney from Pittsburgh Steelers and Jon Kolb, 4x Super Bowl Champion to Keynote Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Passing of the Leash Community Awareness Event

PITTSBURGH, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs cordially invites the public to attend our 2019 Pittsburgh Passing of the Leash Ceremony. This heart-warming event showcases the incredible difference Service Dogs have made in the lives of their recipients in Pennsylvania communities. Meet some of these life-saving dogs and teams, and enjoy lunch with us.

The Passing of the Leash will be held at Duquesne Union Ballroom, on Tuesday, June 4 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Admission is $35 per person, and tickets can be purchased in advance online at: https://medicalservicedogs.networkforgood.com/events/12383-passing-of-the-leash.

Full tables and sponsorships are available. Seating is limited and will be offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.

You can find more information, and learn additional information about this uplifting event at: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/event/passing-leash-pittsburgh/

We would like to thank our Title Sponsor, Mosites Construction Company for their support of our event. Special thanks also to the Sons of the American Legion, Post 892 for their support. If you have questions regarding the event, or would like to become a sponsor, please call Christine at (779) 970-6430 or send an e-mail to: Christine@medicalservicedogs.org for more information.

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a 501(c)(3) Based in Williston, Florida that raises, trains and then donates individually trained medical service dogs to veterans and others who suffer from disabilities including PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, mobility issues and much more. We receive no state or federal funding available for this critical life-saving program. Over the past nine years, Guardian Angels has paired nearly 300 individually trained medical service dogs with those in need, and with your help, they can help even more. Reserve your tickets today.

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/qIrknXtV0ss

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs cordially invites the public to attend our 2019 Pittsburgh Passing of the Leash Ceremony. This heart-warming event showcases the incredible difference Service Dogs have made in the lives of their recipients in Pennsylvania communities. Meet some of these life-saving dogs and teams, and enjoy lunch with us.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Lansing Board of Water and Light Names Dog after Combat Veteran Mike Ronan

LANSING, Mich. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Lansing Board of Water and Light held a fundraising event, the BWL IBEW Golf 4 charity Tournament, and have raised the funds necessary to donate an individually trained service dog to a deserving recipient. As they held their event, they heard from Mike Ronan, a Marine Veteran who was paired with a Service Dog through Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. based in Williston, Florida.

Mike spoke at their event, and talked about his time in the military, and the PTSD that followed his service. He then spoke about how his Service Dog; Julie has forever changed his life for the better.

After hearing Mike's incredible story, the BWL IBEW Golf 4 Charity committee decided to donate the funds to Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, to help another veteran in need.

"As part of their sponsorship of a team, one of the 'perks' is that they are able to name the future service dog they are sponsoring," said Christine Patrick, Communications Manager for Guardian Angels.

So moved by Mike's story, the BWL IBEW Golf 4 Charity committee has decided to name their sponsored future service dog, Ronan, in his honor.

Mary Jo Brandt, Guardian Angels Chief Operating Officer said "We're thrilled that the Lansing Board of Water and Light has made us the beneficiary of their giving and couldn't be more excited that they are honoring a great American like Mike."

Once a puppy is chosen, little Ronan will begin training that will take 1.5 - 2 years to complete before he is ready to be paired with a veteran in need.

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) with a mission to rescue, raise, train and then donate the finest medical service dogs to veterans and others who struggle with the effects of a disability such as PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury and seizure disorders. In just our first 9 years, we've paired nearly 300 individually trained, federally protected medical service dogs to those in need. With up to 1,500 hours of training per dog, it is a long process, but worth every moment when you see the results of Unleashing the Power to Heal, and the life-saving, life-changing difference it makes for our recipients.

For more information on our program, please visit our website at: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/.

The Lansing Board of Water and Light held a fundraising event, the BWL IBEW Golf 4 Charity Tournament, and have raised the funds necessary to donate an individually trained service dog to a deserving recipient. As they held their event, they heard from Mike Ronan, a Marine Veteran who was paired with a Service Dog through Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc..

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Awarded Grant from Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF)

WILLISTON, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is proud to announce that on April 17, 2019, the Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) announced a grant award in the amount of $25,000 to our organization.

These valuable funds will be put straight to work, to help us train a medical service dog for a deserving veteran in need.

There is great synergy between our organizations, both determined to make a difference for veterans who are struggling with conditions such as: PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, Seizure disorders, Diabetic alert, and/or mobility issues.

Asked about the grant award, Guardian Angels Founder & CEO, Carol Borden said: "On behalf of the disabled veterans we serve, I wish to extend my deepest appreciation to the Disabled Veterans National Foundation for recognizing the tremendous need to take care of our veterans. Because of your generosity, we are able to provide long term care to another deserving American hero.

"We are honored to begin working with DVNF, and look forward to a relationship that will continue changing the lives of our veterans for the better both today and in the future."

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) with a mission to rescue, raise, train and then donate the finest medical service dogs to veterans and others who struggle with the effects of a disability such as PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, seizure & diabetic disorders and mobility issues. Since 2010, we have donated nearly 300 individually trained, federally protected medical service dogs to those in need.

With up to 1,500 hours of training per dog, it is a long process, but worth every moment when you see the results of Unleashing the Power to Heal, and the life-saving, life-changing difference it makes for our recipients.

For more information on our program, please visit our website at: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is proud to announce that on April 17, 2019, the Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) announced a grant award in the amount of $25,000 to our organization.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. Celebrates 5-year Partnership with Humane Society Naples

NAPLES, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. based in Williston, Florida is proud to celebrate the 5-year anniversary, of our partnership with Humane Society Naples, to teach Service Dog classes to our Foster Family Trainers and Recipients.

Humane Society Naples allows Guardian Angels to utilize their facility each Monday evening so that we may continue to educate, train and refresh training for our Service Dogs that are both currently in-training, or already paired with their recipient.

Asked about the anniversary, Carol Borden, Guardian Angels Founder & CEO said: "We have grown our organization dramatically over nearly ten years. We cannot do it alone, as it takes great partners on many levels to help us reach our goal of helping others. We would like to recognize and thank Humane Society Naples for the past five years, for being a gracious partner that has extended their facility to us every week where we hold service dog training classes".

The Executive Director of Naples Humane Society, Sarah Baeckler Davis, JD, says of the partnership: "We are thrilled to celebrate the five-year milestone as partners with Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs. In addition to rescuing and sheltering homeless animals, HSN wants to be a gathering place for people doing good work with animals in Southwest Florida. Providing training space to this wonderful group is another way we can continue to support the human-animal bond and build a better community."

Thank you to Humane Society Naples, for allowing us to continue making a difference in the Naples area.

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to raise, train and then donate the finest medical service dogs to veterans and others to mitigate the effects of conditions such as PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, glucose imbalance, seizure disorders and mobility issues. Since our beginning in 2010, we've paired nearly 300 individually trained, federally protected medical service dogs to those in need. With up to 1,500 hours of training per dog, it is a long process, but worth every moment when you see the results of Unleashing the Power to Heal, and the life-saving, life-changing difference it makes for our recipients.

For more information on our program, please visit our website at: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. based in Williston, Florida is proud to celebrate the 5-year anniversary, of our partnership with Humane Society Naples, to teach Service Dog classes to our Foster Family Trainers and Recipients.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

GMAR Shows their Support for Michigan Veterans by Raising Funds for Service Dogs through Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Greater Metropolitan Association of REALTORS(R) has undertaken an incredible 5-year journey called 5 Years, 5 Dogs, 5 Lives saved. In their quest to assist Michigan Veterans, struggling with disabilities such as PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, Seizure disorders, and/or mobility issues, The Greater Metropolitan Association of REALTORS [GMAR] has partnered with Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs.

This partnership began in 2016, with their initial sponsorship of Service Dog, Cobalt REALTOR(R) Blue, who is now fully trained, and assisting Michigan Resident and Veteran, Matthew, in overcoming his challenges from war.

Next up, was GMAR's sponsored dog Thor, who Guardian Angels fully trained and paired with Michigan Resident and Veteran, Dwayne. Currently, GMAR has a sweet puppy in training, named Independence, or Indy for short. Indy is at the Guardian Angels Medical Service Dog Headquarters in Williston, Florida, completing her training to serve another Michigan veteran and his or her family. Over the next two years, two additional dogs, still to be named by GMAR will be trained to help a Michigan Veteran.

The real and daily difference that the GMAR family is making by their commitment cannot be overstated. There are, tragically, 22 veterans each day that take their own lives in this country, but once paired with a Guardian Angels Medical Service Dog, not only does the rate of suicide fall to zero; the rate of divorce in combat veteran families falls to less than 1%. The Veteran's use of medication is reduced or eliminated under their Dr's care; in many instances, they return to work or school; and they are able to re-engage at last with friends, family and community.

Guardian Angels is honored to have been chosen to partner with the Greater Metropolitan Association of REALTORS(R), and inspired by their commitment to the Michigan Veteran Community. GMAR is truly saving lives, one paw at a time.

If you would like to support saving the lives of another veteran, please contact GMAR, or visit their website at: http://www.gmaronline.com

About Guardian Angels:

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Williston, Florida and has grown into a nation-wide Service Dog Organization. We rescue, raise, train and donate individually trained medical service dogs to veterans, first responders and others who suffer from disabilities including PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, seizure disorders, mobility issues and more. Guardian Angels receives up to 40 inquiries each day for one of their medical Service Dogs. There is no state or federal funding available for this critical life-saving program. Since their inception in 2010, Guardian Angels has paired more than 300 individually trained medical service dogs with those in need.

Learn more at: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

About GMAR:

The Greater Metropolitan Association of REALTORS(R) (GMAR) is the premier Association of REALTORS(R) in Southeast Michigan, providing services and support to the real estate profession and the communities they serve. With over 8,700 members, GMAR is the largest local REALTOR(R) association in the state. GMAR provides many benefits to its members, such as access to the MLS, over 220 quality continuing education and designation courses per year, the largest REALTOR(R) specific store in the area, the ToolShop(tm), Metropolitan Minute weekly newsletter and Metropolitan REALTOR(R) monthly electronic magazine. GMAR's mission is to educate, advocate, and care for our members and the communities they love.

Visit https://gmaronline.com/ to learn more. Like us at https://www.facebook.com/GMARonline.

The Greater Metropolitan Association of REALTORS(R) has undertaken an incredible 5-year journey called 5 Years, 5 Dogs, 5 Lives saved. In their quest to assist Michigan Veterans, struggling with disabilities and/or mobility issues, The Greater Metropolitan Association of REALTORS [GMAR] has partnered with Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. Chooses Pittsburgh Area to Build State-of-the-Art Service Dog Campus

PITTSBURGH, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- Over the course of its 9 years, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs (GAMSD) has grown into one of the largest service dog organizations in the nation. We raise, train, advocate for, and donate these incredible medical service dogs, specifically trained to perform tasks for disabled veterans, first-responders and civilians.

"Our dogs help to mitigate the challenges of disabilities and assist them in performing tasks they are no longer able to perform for themselves, thus lessening the burden on caregivers, community services and families," says Christine Patrick, Communications Manager. "We are extremely proud of our more than 300 teams working in 22 states across the U.S., with over 30 of those currently in Pennsylvania."

Throughout the years, we have had many of our initiatives supported by various Pittsburgh individuals, philanthropic foundations, professional sports teams, corporations and other community efforts. That has produced the sponsoring of 60 current and future service dogs to date, as well as funding for our traveling trainer and rescue programs.

Some noteworthy supporters include: PNC Bank, Armstrong Cable, The Aloe Family Foundation, Ernst & Young, Highmark, DSF Charitable Foundation, The Pittsburgh Foundation, Michele & Agnese Cestone Foundation, the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pirates, Penguins and Duquesne University, along with various schools and tremendous volunteer organizations such as Life Changing Service Dogs for Veterans. In addition, the Eat'n Park Hospitality Group Fund of The Pittsburgh Foundation has stated their intention for the naming rights of the Recipient Housing portion of the campus.

For these reasons and more, we are proud to announce we have selected the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as the first location for our new campus outside of our Florida Headquarters. The airport area where the GAMSD campus will be located is within close proximity to several National Guard and Military Reserve Units, parallels the Montour Trail and is about twenty minutes from downtown Pittsburgh.

The construction of the new GAMSD Pittsburgh Regional Campus will be a 12 to 18-month project that will have a positive impact on the local and state economy. On average, 75 to 100 workers will be employed during the planning and construction stages. They will include architects, engineers, plumbers, electricians, equipment operators, landscape professionals, roofers and a variety of other skilled trades. This 102-acre site that was once strip-mined, will be restored to its full natural beauty.

We have contracted RBVetCo, a disabled veteran-owned business, with a high-quality reputation to build our new facility. Once fully operational, we will have about twenty full-time staff members from the surrounding areas employed at the Pittsburgh Regional Campus. The number of jobs on-site is not significant in quantity, but meaningful in the purpose and role they play in raising, training and donating our highly skilled dogs to those in need.

Our campus will be one of the most important new establishments in the Pittsburgh area. We have a proven track record of positively changing and saving lives through our holistic approach to mitigating the challenges of permanent disabilities. With the help of our specially trained dogs, our disabled recipients begin to integrate back into their family circles, and become productive members of their communities again, even breaking the cycle of inter-generational PTSD in children. Once paired with one of our service dogs, we have countless teams that have enrolled in, or returned to college, completed degrees, become gainfully employed, started businesses, or simply left behind years of self-isolation and begun to travel.

This campus will touch the lives of countless individuals, creating both social & economic impacts. Once a recipient is paired, they begin their "New Normal". We estimate that in a family of four, each dog has the potential to positively impact the lives of 4,380 people in their community each year.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is honored to serve our nation's Veterans, first-responders and disabled population. With more than 2.2 million veterans facing permanent disabilities, first-responder PTSD rates at record levels and 13% of the general population burdened with a permanent disability, this new campus will allow us to better serve those in need. In fact, although the rate of suicide in our nation's veteran population is a staggering 20-22 per day, once paired with a Guardian Angels Medical Service Dog, the rate of suicide to date in our teams is Zero. Lesser known, is that the rate of divorce in combat veteran families can be 90% higher than the national average, but once paired with one of our service dogs, the rate of divorce falls to less than 1%.

Beyond training and donating these incredible dogs, Guardian Angels takes a multi-phased approach to helping our community. This includes a comprehensive college accredited apprentice program and it is also approved by the Veterans' Administration under the GI Bill.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a 501(C) 3 non-profit organization founded in Williston, Florida and has grown into a nation-wide Service Dog Organization. We rescue, raise, train and donate individually trained medical service dogs to veterans, first responders and others who suffer from disabilities including PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, seizure disorders, diabetic alert, mobility issues and more. Guardian Angels receives up to 40 inquiries each day for one of their medical Service Dogs. There is very little state or federal funding available for this critical life-saving program.

If you'd like to learn more about our programs, get involved, make a contribution, or be part of supporting this life-saving project/naming a building please call 412-352-1111 or visit our website at: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/.

Over the course of its 9 years, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs (GAMSD) has grown into one of the largest service dog organizations in the nation. We raise, train, advocate for, and donate these incredible medical service dogs, specifically trained to perform tasks for disabled veterans, first-responders and civilians.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. Welcomes Mike Hudson, PNC Bank V.P. to Advisory Council

WILLISTON, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. based in Williston, Florida is proud to welcome Mr. Mike Hudson, Senior Vice President of PNC Bank's Enterprise Transformation Efforts to our Advisory Council.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is fast-growing nationwide non-profit organization, and our goal is to continue that growth with solid planning and expert advice.

Mr. Hudson will join our Advisory Council, already comprised of a great amount of experience, business savvy and talent including:
* Brigadier General (U.S. Army, Retired) and recipient, Donald Bolduc
* Real Estate Developer, active volunteer for veteran causes and veteran himself, Vito Pampalona
* Colonel (U.S. Army, Retired), Hidden Heroes Fellow, and Recipient Caregiver, Brian Vines
* Lt. Col. (U.S.A.F., Retired), active volunteer, and head of veteran-student relations at Duquesne University, Don Accamando
* Active veteran-causes fundraiser, Mrs. Jolanthe Bassett
* Defense-industry businesswoman, Mrs. Mary Lamparter.

Carol Borden, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. Founder & CEO said: "I am very pleased to welcome Mike Hudson to our Advisory Council. I have worked with Mike on various projects through PNC Bank and outside of PNC Bank, all to help veterans. I have witnessed the passion Mike has for helping our veterans, so I know he will help us all to continue our growth in 2019, both personally and professionally."

Mr. Hudson is not new to Guardian Angels. Over the past 3 years, he has worked with a team of over 150 volunteers to raise money for the organization, and that work has resulted in nearly 30 dogs being paired with veterans in need.

Mr. Hudson commented: "The ongoing reward I get to witness first hand as these veterans' lives are changed, has worked to deepen my passion for Guardian Angels, and my commitment to stemming Veteran Suicide."

Please join us in welcoming Mr. Mike Hudson to the Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs family.

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to raise, train and then donate the finest medical service dogs to veterans and others to mitigate the effects of conditions such as PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, glucose imbalance, seizure disorders and mobility issues.

Since our beginning in 2010, we've paired nearly 300 individually trained, federally protected medical service dogs to those in need. With up to 1,500 hours of training per dog, it is a long process, but worth every moment when you see the results of Unleashing the Power to Heal, and the life-saving, life-changing difference it makes for our recipients.

For more information on our program, please visit our website at: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. based in Williston, Florida is proud to welcome Mr. Mike Hudson, Senior Vice President of PNC Bank's Enterprise Transformation Efforts to our Advisory Council.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Carol Borden, Founder and CEO of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. Named 2018 Corporate Pet Industry Woman of the Year

WILLISTON, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- On October 3, 2018, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs' Founder and CEO Carol Borden was selected as the 2018 Corporate Pet Industry Woman of the Year, at an awards ceremony held in Philadelphia, Pa.

Pet Industry Woman of the Year has been showcasing leaders in the $86 Billion-dollar-per-year pet industry for the past 5 years. There are 5 categories nominees can compete in: Advocate, which represents women doing advocacy for pets. Corporate, for leaders who own or work for corporations. Entrepreneur, for women opening and running one or multiple businesses. Rising Star for those women in the fast lane doing remarkable work to keep our eyes on. Lastly, Solopreneur, for women doing it all solo.

"What an honor it was to not only be a finalist, but to win the Corporate Pet Industry Woman of the Year for 2018," said Carol Borden. "There were many distinguished and accomplished women there, and to be recognized truly speaks to the incredible work of my Guardian Angels team, and the work that we do to save lives everyday."

"The Pet Industry Woman of the Year Awards recognize remarkable leaders in the pet industry who dedicate their time and talents to improving the lives of all pets - dogs, cats, birds, fish, horses and exotics - and their caregivers," said Shawna Schuh, president of WIPIN. "These awards are a celebration of women who have made highly successful careers in the pet industry: They shine in large part because they are so passionate about helping women as well as pets. Carol Borden is a perfect example! It is exciting to honor her and other women with a genuine calling to make the pet industry stronger."

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a 501(c)(3) Based in Florida that rescues, raises, trains and then donates individually trained medical service dogs to veterans, first-responders and others who suffer from disabilities including PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, seizure disorders, mobility issues and much more.

There is no state or federal funding available for this critical life-saving program. Over the past 9 years, Guardian Angels has paired nearly 300 individually trained medical service dogs with those in need, and with your help, that number can continue to grow. Visit our website at http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/ to get involved or learn more.

About Women in the Pet Industry Network:
Women in the Pet Industry Network (WIPIN) is a leading organization focused on women leaders in all categories of this ever-growing pet industry. Leaders don't need to be members of WIPIN to compete for Pet Industry Woman of the Year, and many of the finalists are members, however the caliber of these finalists speaks to how vital the pet space is becoming because of so many women doing remarkable work. Headquartered near Portland, Ore., WIPIN serves leaders who are making a difference in the pet space. WIPIN members come from all categories within the pet industry, from groomers and veterinarians to pet sitters and pet boutique owners. Learn more: https://www.womeninthepetindustry.com/.

On October 3, 2018, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs' Founder and CEO Carol Borden was selected as the 2018 Corporate Pet Industry Woman of the Year, at an awards ceremony held in Philadelphia, Pa. Pet Industry Woman of the Year has been showcasing leaders in the $86 Billion-dollar-per-year pet industry for the past 5 years.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Carol Borden, Founder and CEO of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. Named a Pet Industry Woman of the Year Finalist

WILLISTON, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Founder and CEO, Carol Borden has been selected as one of twenty-five women vying for the title of Pet Industry Woman of the Year 2018. Becoming a Finalist puts Carol Borden in the running for one of the 5 category winners and from that the option of the top spot of Pet Industry Woman of the Year which will be announced during the live awards show on Oct 2, in Oaks, Pa. at The Club at Shannondell. This is in conjunction with the Pet Connections Expo being held in Greater Philadelphia Expo Center.

Pet Industry Woman of the Year has been showcasing leaders in the pet industry for the past 5 years. There are 5 categories nominees can compete in: Advocate, which represents women doing advocacy for pets. Corporate, for leaders who own or work for corporations. Entrepreneur, for women opening and running one or multiple businesses. Rising Star for those women in the fast lane doing remarkable work to keep our eyes on. Lastly, Solopreneur, for women doing it all solo.

Women in the Pet Industry Network (WIPIN) is a leading organization focused on women leaders in all categories of this ever-growing pet industry. Leaders don't need to be members of WIPIN to compete for Pet Industry Woman of the Year, and many of the finalists are members, however the caliber of these finalists speaks to how vital the pet space is becoming because of so many women doing remarkable work.

About Carol Borden:
Titling her first dog at the age of 10, Carol has spent a lifetime loving and training dogs. In 2010, she founded Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. in Williston, Florida where she has raised, trained and donated nearly 300 individually trained service dogs for those with disabilities including PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, seizure and diabetic disorders and mobility issues.

Carol has remained a trailblazer in the Service Dog industry, working with the states of both Florida and Michigan in drafting their service dog legislation to protect the rights of the disabled; and her training curriculum has just become the first accredited service dog training program in the State of Florida. Carol was a 2015 winner of the Stephen B. Wise award and a 2018 winner of the AUSV Vetty Award for service to veterans in the Mental Health Category.

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that has grown into a nation-wide organization. Today, Guardian Angels receives up to 40 inquiries each day for one of their medical Service Dogs. There is no state or federal funding available for this critical life-saving program.

For more information on our program, visit: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/ and please consider joining us, as we Unleash the Power to Heal.

About Women in the Pet Industry Network (WIPIN):
Headquartered near Portland, Ore., WIPIN serves leaders who are making a difference in the pet space. WIPIN members come from all categories within the pet industry, from groomers and veterinarians to pet sitters and pet boutique owners. Women in the Pet Industry Network is committed to igniting leaders who ignite others which in turn makes a positive impact on all pets and their people. For more information, please visit http://www.womeninthepetindustry.com/.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Founder and CEO, Carol Borden has been selected as one of twenty-five women vying for the title of Pet Industry Woman of the Year 2018. Carol has remained a trailblazer in the Service Dog industry, working with the states of both Florida and Michigan in drafting their service dog legislation to protect the rights of the disabled.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Parkland School Survivor and Guardian Angels Medical Service Dog Recipient to return to first day of school with Service Dog Escort

PARKLAND, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. is a national 501(c)(3) non-profit, located in Williston, Fla. In June of this year, we paired Parkland School Shooting survivor, Haylee Shepherd with a Medical Service Dog, to cope with the PTSD developed after last year's shooting.

Haylee's mom, Andrea, said: "Haylee unfortunately was in the 1200 building at MSD on, February 14th, the day of one of the largest mass school shootings. On the day of love, she heard and witnessed 17 friends and staff members shot and killed before her eyes.

"Since then she has been suffering with anxiety attacks, terrifying nightmares, and the fear of being alone. However, {Service Dog} Spree instantly put the smile back on her face, the ability to sleep soundly, and to know she's never alone. Spree is giving her the strength to move forward, one day at a time, with the same determination and confidence she had prior to this horrific day.

"We are forever grateful to all the hard workers at Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs that made this even possible. From the moment we stepped on the farm we were treated with nothing but love and support. With all the hate we see around the world these days, it's amazing to feel the love!"

Guardian Angels is proud to have built a strong, private online community for our recipients, where they can share and learn from each other's experiences, no matter where they are located.

So moved were our recipients by Haylee's story, that several of our Florida recipients will be joining her to escort her to her first day back at school on August 15, 2018. A Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs staff trainer will also join Haylee.

At this time, three of our more experienced Service Dog teams are planning on attending. They are: Rudy and his Service Dog, Rocket; Robert and his Service Dog, Sirius, Sarah and her Service Dog, Hero; and Jim and his Service Dog, Nina. A Guardian Angels trainer will also accompany Haylee on her first day back with Spree.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs would like to take this opportunity to wish Haylee, and all the students returning to Marjorie Stoneman Douglas HS a peaceful first day back to class.

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Williston, Florida and has grown into a nation-wide Service Dog Organization. We rescue, raise, train and donate individually trained medical service dogs to veterans, first responders and others who suffer from disabilities including PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, seizure disorders, mobility issues and more.

Guardian Angels receives up to 40 inquiries each day for one of their medical Service Dogs. There is no state or federal funding available for this critical life-saving program. Since their inception in 2010, Guardian Angels has paired nearly 300 individually trained medical service dogs with those in need; and with your help, they can do even more.

For more information on our program, visit: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/ and please consider joining us, as we Unleash the Power to Heal.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. is a national 501(c)(3) non-profit, located in Williston, Fla. In June of this year, we paired Parkland School Shooting survivor, Haylee Shepherd with a Medical Service Dog, to cope with the PTSD developed after last year's shooting.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Rocky Bleier to be Keynote Speaker at Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Passing of the Leash Community Awareness Event

PITTSBURGH, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, along with hosts Don and Tony Accamando and Jack Wagner, cordially invite the public to attend the Passing of the Leash. This heart-warming event showcases the incredible difference Service Dogs have made in the lives of their recipients and includes a plated lunch.

The Passing of the Leash will be held at Duquesne Union Ballroom, on Tuesday, June 12, 2018 at 11 a.m.

Admission is $35 per person, and tickets can be purchased in advance online at https://medicalservicedogs.networkforgood.com/events/6751-passing-of-the-leash.

Full tables and sponsorships are available. Seating is limited and will be offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.

You can find more information, and learn additional information about this emotional event at: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/event/potl-pitt/

If you have questions regarding the event, please call Rachel at (352) 857-1032 or send her an e-mail at: redwing@medicalservicedogs.com for more information.

Reserve your tickets today.

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a 501(c)(3) Based in Williston, Florida that raises, trains and then donates individually trained medical service dogs to veterans and others who suffer from disabilities including PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, mobility issues and much more. There is no state or federal funding available for this critical life-saving program.

Over the past 8 years, Guardian Angels has paired more than 225 individually trained medical service dogs with those in need, and with your help, they can help even more.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, along with hosts Don and Tony Accamando and Jack Wagner, cordially invite the public to attend the Passing of the Leash. This heart-warming event showcases the incredible difference Service Dogs have made in the lives of their recipients and includes a plated lunch.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Brigadier General Donald C. Bolduc, U.S. Army, Retired to be keynote speaker at the 2018 Bark-A-Que

NAPLES, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels is proud to announce that Brigadier General Donald C. Bolduc, United States Army, retired will be the keynote speaker at our Bark-A-Que fundraising event, being held on Saturday, March 3, 2018 at N. Collier Regional Park in Naples, Florida.

After 32 years of active duty service to his country, in which he received two awards for valor, five Bronze Star medals, two Purple Hearts, led ten deployments, and survived both a bomb blast, numerous fire fights, and a helicopter crash, Bolduc, former Commander, Special Operations Command Africa, is hanging up his fatigues to take on perhaps his most important and challenging mission of advocating for the treatment and shedding the stigma of PTSD and mental health problems, both from within the US military as well as the general public.

His other awards and decorations include the Defense Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal with Valor Device, Army Commendation Medal with Valor Device, numerous foreign awards, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, Special Forces Tab, and Ranger Tab.

Beyond his various positions and awards, nothing brings more meaning to Bolduc's service than his latest mission to combat the stigmas around post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). As one of the few military officers, and, at the time, the only active duty general officer on record, to openly discuss his own struggles with PTS, Bolduc has used his leadership position to change the conversation to one of understanding and acceptance through his own experiences.

Dubbed "Captain America" by his fellow officers and soldiers, Bolduc always put country first, and now looks to continue his service off the battlefield sharing his leadership mantra of "Mission, People, and Family" and his personal experiences with mental health to educate others.

He will be speaking on Saturday about the effect of PTSD on our modern military and introducing his new battle buddy, his ServiceDog, Victor.

The Bark-A-Que will also have the Ben Allen Band, LIVE in concert, great food provided by Mission BBQ, a fantastic Silent Auction, raffles and a chance to meet & greet with some of our Service Dog teams, to learn what they do, and how they help.

Event attendees are encouraged to RSVP before March 2nd. Tickets are $35.00 for adults, $15.00 for children 5-15, and Free for children under 5. Tickets will be available at the gate. Sponsorships and Silent Auction items are now being accepted. If interested in sponsoring our event, or donating a silent auction item, please contact Rachel at: redwing@medicalservicedogs.com

You can find more information, or purchase your tickets online at: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/event/bark-que-2018/

If you have questions regarding the event, please call Rachel at (352) 857-1032 or e-mail redwing@medicalservicedogs.com for more information.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a 501(c)(3) Based in Florida that rescues, raises, trains and then donates individually trained medical service dogs to veterans and others who suffer from disabilities including PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, mobility issues and much more. There is no state or federal funding available for this critical life-saving program. Over the past 8 years, Guardian Angels has paired more than 220 individually trained medical service dogs with those in need; and with our help, we can help even more. Reserve your seat today. Learn more at: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Guardian Angels is proud to announce that Brigadier General Donald C. Bolduc, United States Army, retired will be the keynote speaker at our Bark-A-Que fundraising event, being held on Saturday, March 3, 2018 at N. Collier Regional Park in Naples, Florida.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Proudly announces the 2018 Bark-A-Que Sponsored by PNC Bank

NAPLES, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels is proud to announce we will be hosting our Annual Bark-A-Que(R) featuring The Ben Allen Band LIVE in concert! The event will be held on Saturday, March 3, 2018 from 10-2.

This fun afternoon event will be held at N. Collier Regional Park and includes an incredible BBQ lunch, provided by Mission BBQ, amazing silent auction, raffles and a chance to meet & greet with some of our Service Dog teams, to learn what they do, and how they help.

Event attendees are encouraged to RSVP before March 1. Tickets are $35 for adults, $15 for children 5-15, and Free for children under 5. Tickets will be available at the gate. Sponsorships and Silent Auction items are now being accepted.

If interested in sponsoring our event, or donating a silent auction item, please contact Rachel at: redwing@medicalservicedogs.com

You can find more information, or purchase your tickets online at: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/event/bark-que-2018/

If you have questions regarding the event, please call Rachel at (352) 857-1032 or e-mail redwing@medicalservicedogs.com for more information.

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a 501(c)(3) Based in Florida that rescues, raises, trains and then donates individually trained medical service dogs to veterans and others who suffer from disabilities including PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, mobility issues and much more. There is no state or federal funding available for this critical life-saving program. Over the past 8 years, Guardian Angels has paired more than 220 individually trained medical service dogs with those in need; and with our help, we can help even more. Reserve your seat today. Learn more at: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

@mediservicedogs #BarkAQue #BAQ #ServiceDogs #BenAllenBand

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is proud to announce we will be hosting our Annual Bark-A-Que featuring The Ben Allen Band LIVE in concert! The event will be held on March 3, 2018 from 10-2. This fun afternoon event will be held at N. Collier Regional Park and includes an incredible BBQ lunch, amazing silent auction, raffles and a chance to meet & greet with some of our Service Dog teams, to learn what they do, and how they help.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Wins 2018 Academy of United States Veterans ‘VETTY’ Award

WILLISTON, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. is a national 501(c)(3) non-profit, located in Williston, Fla. On January 20, 2018 its Founder and CEO, Carol Borden and National Canine Program Director, Nate Burney were at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C. to accept the 2018 VETTY Award for outstanding efforts in Veterans Mental Health.

In choosing Guardian Angels for this distinguished award, the board of governors of AUSV state: "Recipient (GAMSD) has made a significant difference in the lives of veterans whose wounds can't be seen. Recipient has provided services/methods to replace feelings of despair with hope."

Carol Borden, Founder and Chief Executive Officer said: "We're just so proud of everyone connected with our organization. From staff to volunteers and foster trainers, everyone involved truly cares about making a difference for our veterans and first-responders. It is a great honor to have our work with veterans recognized by the Academy of United States Veterans."

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs was honored to stand beside several deserving veterans' charities, veterans, and individuals who were also recognized at the black tie gala, including:

* Leadership: Sarah Verardo, Executive Director, The Independence Fund
* Education: Dustin Perkins, Director of Marketing, Student Veterans of America, Illinois
* Employment: Bunker Labs
* Community: National Veterans Legal Services Program
* Honorary Vetty: Steven D. Vincent, Senior Business Development Manager, Tiag
* Honorary Vetty: George A. Chewning, II, Director of Governmental Affairs, Global War on Terror Memorial Foundation
* Honorary Vetty: Jake Tapper of CNN, Chief Washington Correspondent, CNN who also hosted the evening.

The line-up of esteemed presenters and speakers included: Montel Williams; VA Secretary, David Shulkin; White House Chief of Staff, General John Kelly; actresses Anne Heche and Shohreh Aghdashloo; veteran and NFL player Nate Boyer as well as Mark Rockefeller.

Actor Mike Vogel, who along with Veteran and Bronze Medal Recipient, Matt James presented the award.

Several business leaders were also in attendance, including Eric Mitchell of LifeFlip Media, Eli Crane of Bottle Breacher, Sal DeFranco of Battle Grounds Coffee, and Travis McVey of Heroes Vodka.

Academy of United States Veterans (AUSV) established the annual VETTY awards to recognize those that contribute to the well being of the veteran community.

Our acceptance speech can be viewed on our website at: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/vetty-award-acceptance-speech-2018/.

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Williston, Florida and has grown into a nation-wide Service Dog Organization. We rescue, raise, train and donate individually trained medical service dogs to veterans, first responders and others who suffer from disabilities including PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, seizure disorders, mobility issues and more.

Guardian Angels receives up to 40 inquiries each day for one of their medical Service Dogs. There is no state or federal funding available for this critical life-saving program. Since their inception in 2010, Guardian Angels has paired more than 220 individually trained medical service dogs with those in need; and with your help, they can do even more.

For more information on our program, visit: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/.

*Photo for Media: Send2Press.com/300dpi/18-0202s2p-gamd-vetty-300dpi.jpg
*Photo Caption: Founder & CEO of Guardian Angels, Carol Borden and Service Dog, Huey accept the 2018 VETTY award in Mental Health from actor Mike Vogel of The Brave, and Bronze Star Recipient, Matt James.

VIDEO (YouTube):
https://youtu.be/0xl1HfPlos0

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. is a national 501(c)(3) non-profit, located in Williston, Fla. On January 20, 2018 its Founder and CEO, Carol Borden and National Canine Program Director, Nate Burney were at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C. to accept the 2018 VETTY Award for outstanding efforts in Veterans Mental Health.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/

In This Season of Thanksgiving Dunlap Gift of $350,000 Benefits Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs

WILLISTON, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. a national 501(c)(3) non-profit, located in Williston, Fla. and the Community Foundation for Ocala Marion County are proud to announce, and extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Al and Judith Dunlap for their incredibly generous gift of $350,000 to support the work of training medical service dogs for Veterans and First Responders.

Al and Judith are known for their passion for animals, especially German shepherds. They are long-time supporters and donors to the Marion County Sheriff's Office K9 Unit. On a recent visit and tour of Guardian Angels, the Dunlap's saw first-hand the life-saving work being done in training predominantly German Shepherds to become individually-trained medical service dogs.

Al and Judith knew immediately that they wanted to be a part of this work inquiring, "How many dogs can be trained with this gift?" It takes upwards of two (2) years to train a fully functioning service dog at a cost of approximately $22,000. This is all accomplished at no cost to the veteran who is paired with his/her dog for life.

The Community Foundation is honored to partner with Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs in creating a pass-through fund for matching gifts for their year-end campaign to not only raise funds for training but to launch their campaign to expand to a new state of the art facility on 60+ acres in Levy County.

Carol Borden, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Guardian Angels states: "The need is so great. With 20-22 veterans committing suicide on a daily basis, we are so very thankful to Al and Judith Dunlap for their tremendous gift to our organization. These funds will make a life changing difference for so many of our heroes, waiting for help."

In fact, once paired with a Guardian Angels Medical Service Dog, the rate of suicide in their recipients is zero.

About Community Foundation for Ocala Marion County:

Community Foundation for Ocala Marion County is a 501(c)(3) public charity based in Florida that serves as convener-collaborator-catalyst for sustainable community building through philanthropic fund management for donors, professional advisors and nonprofits in four key sectors: civic, cultural, community and economic development.

For additional information about the Community Foundation, see: http://www.ocalafoundation.org/.

To donate to Guardian Angels visit: http://www.ocalafoundation.org/me/community-foundation-ocala-marion-county/guardian-angels-medical-service-dogs-14709.html

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a 501(c)(3) based in Williston, Florida and has grown into a nation-wide Service Dog Organization. We raise, train and then donate individually trained medical service dogs to veterans, first responders and others who suffer from disabilities including PTS, Traumatic Brain Injury, mobility issues and more. Guardian Angels receives up to 40 applications each day for one of their medical Service Dogs. There is no state or federal funding available for this critical life-saving program. Over the past 6 years, Guardian Angels has paired more than 200 individually trained medical service dogs with those in need, and with your help, they can do even more.

For more information on our program, visit: http://www.medicalservicedogs.org/.

*PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/300dpi/17-1212s2p-gamsdogs-300dpi.jpg

*Photo Caption: L to R: Al Dunlap, Donor; Wendy Richards, Mary Jo Brandt, COO of Guardian Angels; Barbara Fitos, Executive Director Community Foundation, Carol Borden, CEO of Guardian Angels; Frank Hennessey, Community Foundation; Nate Burney, Canine Program Director, Guardian Angels; and Judith Dunlap, Donor.

Media Contact:
Mary Jo Brandt
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs
Phone: 239-771-3703
Email: mj@medicalservicedogs.com

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. a national 501(c)(3) non-profit, located in Williston, Fla., and the Community Foundation for Ocala Marion County are proud to announce, and extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Al and Judith Dunlap for their incredibly generous gift of $350,000 to support the work of training medical service dogs for Veterans and First Responders.

Related link: http://www.medicalservicedogs.com/

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. Receives 2014 Neotrope Non-Profit PR Grant

WILLISTON, Fla., Nov. 21, 2014 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc., is pleased to announce it is one of 10 recipients for 2014 of Neotrope's annual J.L. Simmons Non-Profit PR Grant award. With this commitment, Neotrope(R) will provide public relations and cause-related-marketing support to Guardian Angels over the next year to raise awareness around its programs and accomplishments.

This grant will assist Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs in their mission of pairing veterans and others suffering from disabilities that are both visible and invisible with individually trained, federally protected medical service dogs.

"We are grateful to have Neotrope help us raise awareness of medical service dogs, and their role in helping those suffering from disabilities. Their services will be extremely helpful as we begin promotion of our winter and spring events, such as our annual Bark-A-Que, featuring country music star Joe Bachman coming this March," says Carol Borden, Founder & Executive Director, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc.

As part of this in-kind grant program, Neotrope(R) is providing PR solutions, news dissemination (through its Send2Press(R) Newswire service), and social media marketing for Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. This cause-related marketing program is intended to help raise awareness of the 501(c)3 non-profit to traditional media, to the public, as well as to potential sponsors and donors, regarding their efforts.

"We're honored to be providing assistance to such a worthy cause as Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs," said Neotrope CEO, Christopher Laird Simmons; a member of PRSA and ASCAP. "Their programs help not only veterans and the disabled, but also help rescue dogs who need a purpose as man's best friend. We are truly impressed by their philosophy and mission."

About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc.:

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. rescues, raises, trains and then donates individually trained medical service dogs to veterans and others who suffer from disabilities that are both visible and invisible. We have all heard the news, that 22 veterans a day are taking their own lives while suffering from PTSD and combat injuries. But once paired with a Guardian Angels Medical Service Dog, that number falls to zero.

Our veteran recipients report a zero attempted suicide rate, a zero divorce rate, and reduction or elimination in use of prescription medications to treat PTSD. Many are able to return to the workforce, and improve the lives of not only themselves and their families, but to become, again, vital members of their community as well.

Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs exists only through your generosity. We have several upcoming events to raise necessary funds, and to help you learn more about our life-changing program. Tickets are currently available on our website for our annual Passing of the Leash Ceremony, which will be held on December 6, 2014 at the Holy Family Catholic Church in Williston, Fla. You can also see us at the "For The Love of Dogs - and Chocolate" event on February 4, 2014 at the Von Liebig Art Center in Naples, or join us for an amazing day of fun and music featuring country music artist Joe Bachman at our annual Bark-A-Que on March 21, 2015.

For more information on the Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, and to help us pair more of our heroes with service dogs, visit their website at http://www.medicalservicedogs.com/ .

To follow on Facebook, visit: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Guardian-Angels-Medical-Service-Dogs-Inc/147251912100339 .

About Neotrope:

Since 1983 Neotrope(R) has delivered services to raise organization awareness including brand identity, marketing, public relations (PR), and SEO services. Neotrope is also an entertainment publishing company involved in books, music, software, and online magazines. The company pioneered the concept of search optimization of press release content back in 1997 and has been at the forefront of many communication and technology movements for three decades. Neotrope was an Inc. 5000 company in 2009. More information: http://www.Neotrope.com/ .

About the Non-Profit PR Grants:

The Non-Profit PR Grants(TM) program was originally launched in 2000 to help assist U.S. 501(c)3 worthy causes to raise awareness, attract halo sponsors, and better connect with donors and volunteers.

Starting in 2013, the Grant was named after the company co-founder, the late Dr. J.L. Simmons, PhD, who passed away in 2003. The Neotrope PR Grants are now known as the "J.L. Simmons Non-Profit PR Grant."

With this cause-related marketing grant program, Neotrope has been honored to help many worthy causes in past years, including Camp Blue Skies, Catalysts Powering Educational Performance, Children Awaiting Parents, Food Finders, Inc., Fresh Start Surgical Gifts, Girls Write Now, Move for Hunger, The Native Voices Foundation, The Pacific Pinball Museum, The Bob Moog Foundation, Special Equestrians, Starlight Children's Foundation, The National Inclusion Project, World Savvy and dozens more.

Grant recipients are selected by Neotrope/Send2Press staff based on qualified applications filled out and submitted by U.S. based non-profit orgs. Choices for grant "winners" are both subjective, and based on overall activities and actual need, as well as best fit for support from the marketing team.

Additional information regarding the Neotrope 2013 J.L. Simmons Non-Profit PR Grant program for U.S. charitable non-profits and grant recipients can be found at: https://www.send2press.com/non-profit/ and also http://prgrants.com/ .

About Send2Press:

Send2Press(R) (a service of Neotrope) offers best-in-class affordable Direct-to-Editors(TM) news distribution to working print and broadcast media, and to social media, with high visibility in search engines using proprietary Neotrope ContextEngine(TM) technology. Send2Press is unique because it was the first online newswire service with staff entirely comprised of accredited public relations professionals, published authors, working journalists, and marketing experts. The service was spun-off of Neotrope's traditional PR services in 1999. Learn more about Send2Press at https://www.Send2Press.com/about/ .

All trademarks acknowledged.

*LOGO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/14-1121-gangelsdogs-300dpi.jpg .

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/guardian-angels-medical-service-dogs-inc-receives-2014-neotrope-non-profit-pr-grant-2014-11-1121-001.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2014 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.