Big News, Big Missions & One Very Good Dog Named Judith

One Small Moment. One Big Difference.

It started as an ordinary afternoon — just Laura working from home, with her service dog Judith by her side.

When a sudden doorbell startled her, she dropped her medication container on the floor. For most people, a minor annoyance. For Laura, it could mean waiting hours for someone to come home to help — and missing a critical dose that can trigger spasms, pain, and a racing heart.

But Judith didn't miss a beat. Within seconds, she picked it up and placed it back in Laura's lap.

Crisis averted. Afternoon saved.

"Judith may look like a dog lying quietly at my feet, but in reality she is my independence, my safety net, and my peace of mind. In a single moment, she can prevent pain, complications, and hours of uncertainty. Service dogs don't just perform tasks — they change outcomes. And that changes lives." — Laura

Stories like this are exactly why your support matters so much. Every donation, every volunteer hour, every partnership helps make dogs like Judith possible — and gives people like Laura the freedom to live fully and independently.

Thank you for making this possible.

Donate-Help Us Train the Next Judith

Training Together: A Partnership Built on Purpose

We are excited to announce a new collaboration with Buckingham Correctional Center in Dillwyn, Virginia! Selected inmates will house and help train young service dogs in a program that benefits both the offenders and the dogs alike. Each dog will share a cell with an inmate, receiving 24-hour attention and hands-on training. A trainer from SDV will hold weekly classes to teach the offenders the skills they need to succeed. Volunteer families will periodically host the dogs, ensuring they receive important socialization experience out in the larger community.

The program will launch with 4 dogs and 4 primary offender/trainers, supported by 4 backup trainers who will step in whenever a primary trainer is unavailable.

Buckingham Correctional Center is part of the Virginia Model. As the Department of Corrections describes it — "More than just a program, The Virginia Model is a forward-thinking philosophy rooted in two core beliefs: that incarcerated individuals can make meaningful choices, and that behavior should guide opportunity. By pairing positive incentives with fair, consistent accountability, this model promotes safety, personal growth, and a more respectful environment for everyone."

We are proud to launch this partnership, and encouraged by the success of similar programs throughout the service dog world. We can't wait to see what this team — human and canine alike — will accomplish together.

DONATE SUPPLIES TO OUR PRISON PROGRAM

ART UNLEASHED UPDATE

If you follow us on social media, you've already seen our Art Unleashed statues coming to life — and they are looking amazing! We want to thank all of our talented artists and generous statue sponsors for making this possible. Click on the above links to learn more about the artist and statue sponsors

The statues have been painted and sent off for their clear coat finish. A huge thank you to Taylor's Auto Body for applying the clear coat and donating the supplies to get it done. Another big thanks to Bill Marks, who is graciously building the bases for each statue.

Starting in July, you'll be able to spot the statues out and about in Albemarle County — plus one in Alexandria, one in Woodstock and one in Prince George, VA. Stay tuned to find out how you can "spot the pack"!

And mark your calendars — October 24, 2026 is the date you don't want to miss! The Art Unleashed auction will be held at the CODE Building — Irving Theater in Charlottesville, where these stunning painted statues will be auctioned off to benefit our new facility. They would make a gorgeous statement in your home, garden, or place of business. Grab a group of friends and make a night of it — or come ready to bid on your own favorite!

Join the SDV Pack

Our new prison program means we have an exciting new way to get involved! Volunteer families are needed to periodically host the dogs, ensuring they receive important socialization experience out in the larger community.

If the commitment of long-term nights, weekends, or puppy raising doesn't quite fit your schedule, hosting one of our prison program dogs may be the perfect opportunity for you. It's a flexible, meaningful way to support our mission and make a real difference!

Join the Pack- Become a SDV Volunteer!

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