Saving Dogs.
Serving Veterans.
Creating Second Chances.

22

veterans lose their battle to suicide each day

400k

shelter dogs are euthanized each year

20%

of Iraq + Afghanistan veterans have PTSD

96%

of shelter dogs surrenders lack obedience training

Two ends of the same lifeline

Stars & Stripes Dog Rescue, based in Northern California, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to rescuing dogs and restoring lives.

At Stars & Stripes Dog Rescue, we transform rescued shelter dogs into skilled companions at no cost for military veterans living with Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS). Through three interconnected programs — our new Prison Dog program, the Battle Buddy program, and the Veteran Owner/Handler program — we create powerful partnerships that promote healing, purpose, and second chances. From peer-supported group training to veteran-led service dog development and prison-based rehabilitation programs, our mission is simple: rescue dogs, support veterans, and rebuild lives — together.

Wearing a camo hat, a man has his head down and is hugging a large tan dog that he is lifting up.

Who we serve

Stars & Stripes Dog Rescue proudly serves military veterans living in Sacramento, Placer, and El Dorado Counties in Northern California. Our programs offer hands-on dog training, peer-to-peer support, and carefully matched service dog placements—all designed to foster healing, trust, and connection.

If you are a veteran in one of these counties and seeking companionship, emotional support, or a deeper sense of purpose, we invite you to reach out. Whether you are at the beginning of your journey or ready to start training with a dog, we are honored to walk beside you—one step at a time.

Please note: While we are working toward future growth, our programs are currently limited to veterans residing within this three-county region.

How our program works

At the core of our mission is the belief that both veterans and rescue dogs deserve a second chance. We save dogs from high-risk shelters and evaluate them for service or emotional support potential. Through our structured training program—largely delivered through our Prison Dog Program—dogs receive advanced obedience and earn Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification, preparing them to become stable, well-mannered companions.

Tan retriever dog looking at the camera while on a short leash from his trainer, who is mainly off camera.

The true impact happens when these trained dogs are matched at no cost with veterans living with PTSD, anxiety, depression, or other service-related challenges. Based on the veteran’s needs and lifestyle, we facilitate guided, hands-on, and remote training that helps both the veteran and dog grow in trust and confidence. For those needing fully trained service dogs, we provide ongoing training and support to ensure each team can pass Public Access Training. Together, these partnerships offer mutual healing—and a path forward.

Our Programs

Prison Dog

Our Prison Dog program creates life-changing outcomes by pairing rescued dogs with incarcerated trainers inside correctional facilities. Under the guidance of professional trainers, incarcerated participants, who are part of the Pawsitive Outlook Program, provide consistent care, basic obedience, and early task training, preparing the dogs, who make up the Pups on Parole program, for their future roles as service companions.

Every dog in the program must pass the AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Test, a nationally recognized benchmark of good behavior and obedience. From there, dogs continue training to become either Psychiatric Service Dogs or Emotional Support Dogs, depending on the veteran’s individual needs.

This program not only transforms the lives of the dogs and the veterans they will ultimately serve—it also provides a meaningful path to rehabilitation and purpose for the inmates involved. By instilling responsibility, empathy, and pride, the Prison Dog Program exemplifies second chances—for all involved.

Prison Dog Program

Battle Buddy

Our Battle Buddy program brings together rescue dogs and veterans in a supportive community environment. Through structured social meetups, hands-on training, and wellness-focused workshops, veterans and dogs work side-by-side to build trust, reduce isolation, and improve mental well-being. This program is often a gateway to deeper healing and service dog training, allowing participants to form a unique bond while exploring whether a service or support dog is the right next step.

Battle Buddy Program

Veteran Owner/Handler

The Veteran Owner/Handler program empowers veterans to take an active role in training their own rescue dogs as Emotional Support or Service Dogs. With the guidance of skilled trainers, participants learn foundational skills in canine care, obedience, and task training tailored to their specific needs. This hands-on model not only strengthens the veteran-dog bond but also fosters confidence, routine, and a renewed sense of purpose. We believe healing happens in partnership—and that veterans deserve the tools and support to lead the way.

Owner/Handler Program

Ongoing support

Just as no veteran is left behind in service to our country, Stars & Stripes Dog Rescue supports veterans and their canine companions beyond the initial rescue and training. We recognize being a dog owner can be costly and use your donations to provide needed help. Ways we give ongoing help include:

In the forest near sundown, a man is down on 1 knee to his black dog sitting in front of him.
  • No-cost training and training supplies to owner/handler veterans who already have dogs they wish to become Emotional Support or Service dogs.
  • Temporary foster homes for dogs of veterans who need to attend an extended Health Care Residential Program.
  • Support 3 local Stand Downs (Placer, El Dorado and Sacramento counties) each year with vaccines, nail trims, cursory vet check and dog supplies (beds, collars, leashes, blankets, etc.)
  • Educational and community outreach events such as Dog Safety assemblies at elementary schools.

Hear from those we’ve helped

Black Lab

“I thought I was signing up to help my dog. Turns out, he helped me more than I could imagine. I’ve reduced my medication, I sleep better, and I smile more. This program didn’t just train a dog—it brought me back to life.”

John D.

U.S. Marine Corps

Little Bubba

“My son and his dog trained side by side. He used to isolate, barely talk. Now he’s engaged, and I see genuine joy in his eyes again. This program is a blessing for our entire family.”

Marla B.

mother of a veteran

German Shepherd named Brutus

“My dog and I both came from broken places. Now, we’re building something whole together. The program gave me the tools to not just train my dog, but to understand myself better. I’ve never felt this level of peace before.”

Tina S.

U.S. Air Force

How you can get involved today

Donate

Volunteer

Adopt

Dustin Aimes served bravely in the U.S. Air Force and to his memory Stars & Stripes Dog Rescue was established.

In memory of Dustin Aimes

Stars & Stripes Dog Rescue was established in loving memory of our son, Dustin Aimes, who bravely served in the U.S. Air Force until his unexpected passing on October 16, 2021. Dustin dreamed of having his own dog rescue one day. Combining this with his love of country is the driving force behind our organization and ensures Dustin’s legacy lives on.

About Dustin

In memory of Dustin Aimes

Dustin Aimes served bravely in the U.S. Air Force and to his memory Stars & Stripes Dog Rescue was established.

Stars & Stripes Dog Rescue was established in loving memory of our son, Dustin Aimes, who bravely served in the U.S. Air Force until his unexpected passing on October 16, 2021. Dustin dreamed of having his own dog rescue one day. Combining this with his love of country is the driving force behind our organization and ensures Dustin’s legacy lives on.

About Dustin

Latest News