For nearly a decade, a Springfield-based non-profit has been transforming the lives of veterans, inmates, and rescue dogs through a multi-layered restorative program. Summer Gerhardt, owner of Howliday Pet Resort and vice president of K9s for Camo, has been involved since the beginning alongside her husband who also serves on the board. The nonprofit was officially launched by founder John Lopez after years of informally training dogs and pairing them with veterans.
Over the years, the organization has grown into a collaborate effort involving local rescues, correctional facilities, professional dog trainers, and volunteers. K9s for Camo works closely with groups such as Rescue One, Valley Hills Animal Control, and other shelters to rescue dogs with potential for service work. Those dogs are then placed in correctional centers, where inmates help train and care for them as part of the program.
After the prison training phase, the dogs return to Howliday Pet Resort for advanced public access training. Trainers work with dogs in real-world environments like stores and restaurants to ensure they can stay focused despite distractions. Once fully trained, the service dogs are matched with veterans at no cost. The dogs are trained to assist with conditions including PTSD, anxiety, seizures, diabetes, and mobility challenges.
One veteran’s story stands out to Gerhardt. Early in the program a veteran struggling with PTSD and anxiety was unable to leave his home. After receiving his service dog, his confidence steadily grew. Eventually, he was able to reduce some medications and enjoy something simple but deeply meaningful: lunch with his daughter at the mall. This beautiful scenario had seemed impossible only months prior.
K9s for Camo aims to place 21 service dogs each year, though training can take up to a full year. Gerhardt says the organization is now rebuilding momentum and urgently needs volunteers, foster homes, donations, and community support to continue changing lives. To learn more or to get involved, visit https://k9sforcamo.org/