Big News at SDV: New Teams, a New Puppy, and a Chance to Help!

The Hard Work Behind the Celebration

So far this year, we’ve celebrated four new client/dog team placements - Erik & Elise with SDV Stratos, Jonathan with SDV Remy, and Margaret with SDV Augie. This is a big milestone—but it’s only possible because of the work done at Transfer Camp.

What is Transfer Camp?
Transfer Camp is where clients and dogs truly begin their lives together as a team. Over 1–2 weeks, clients train alongside their new service dogs and our trainers, practicing real-world skills in everyday settings—in stores, at restaurants, and beyond.

During camp, clients learn how to:

Communicate with their dog
Understand their dog’s body language
Navigate daily life together

Whether it’s opening a door, walking through a crowded aisle, or settling quietly under a table, each exercise builds trust and confidence. Our trainers like to say it’s like learning to dance with a partner who already knows the steps—you just need to find your rhythm together.

(Pictured L-R): Erik, SDV Stratos, Elise, Jonathan and SDV Remy)

Growth Through Hard Work
It’s hard work, and sometimes overwhelming. But with each passing day, something remarkable happens—clients grow more confident, bonds strengthen, and dog and handler begin to move as one.

(Pictured: Margaret and Facility Dog SDV Augie)

Transfer Camp turns possibility into partnership. It’s where clients become capable handlers, dogs become trusted partners, and graduation celebrates the journey they’ve accomplished together. Donate today to help make this transformation possible for even more clients and dogs!

DONATE

We're Finalists — Help Us Win a $1,000 Grant!

We're excited to share that Service Dogs of Virginia is a finalist in the Gather Around Giving grant program from Company Distilling!

Now we need your vote to win one of 12 grants.
You can vote once a day until November 5, 2025.

How to Vote:

Visit the Gather Around Giving page on Company Distilling’s website (must be 21 or older).
Scroll to our logo.
Click and vote!

What We’ll Win if We’re Chosen:

$1,000 grant
Social media features & press coverage
Spotlight at Company Distilling locations
Opportunities for fundraising events in 2026

Winners announced on Giving Tuesday – December 2.

Thank you for your support — every vote counts!

Meet SDV Justine!

We're thrilled to introduce Justine, the newest addition to the SDV family, received through the IBC Co-Op. Justine made her first cross-country airplane trip all the way from Brigadoon Service Dogs in Bellingham, Washington!

A huge thank-you to SDV Board Member Polly for escorting her safely to us, and to her amazing puppy raiser, Kristie

And no, your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you — Justine is a brindle! This beautiful coat pattern, a rare occurrence in Labradors, is a first for SDV.

Catch Us in the Community

Crozet Arts Festival:October 11–12 | 10 AM – 5 PM
Stop by the SDV booth to shop SDV merchandise, learn how you can get involved, and hear about our exciting new fundraiser - Art Unleashed!

Eastwood Winery: November 9
Join SDV at Eastwood Winery for drinks, community, and a chance to meet our amazing dogs in training.

SDV Graduation – December 6 at The Center at Belvedere Come celebrate with us and hear from our newest graduates as they share how their service dogs are already making a difference in their lives.

Find SDV on Social Media!

Don’t miss a thing! Follow us on social media to see all the latest news, stories, and behind-the-scenes fun.

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How would you like to hear from SDV?

Visit Communication Preferences to let us know!