Freedom Dogs San Diego is a nonprofit group that helps wounded members of the military heal and return to civilian life. With the help of our special service dogs and skilled trainers, we give both physical and emotional support to warriors in need.
What We Do
Freedom Dogs works closely with the Marine Corps at Camp Pendleton in San Diego County. Our mission is to help wounded warriors rebuild confidence, reduce stress, and find hope again through the power of the human-dog bond.
We offer two free programs that change lives:
- Partner Program: A dog and trainer team work with a warrior during recovery.
- Partner for Life Program: When needed, a Marine is matched with a dog for life.
Our Story
Freedom Dogs began in 2006, founded by Beth Russell, RN, a former critical care nurse at the UC San Diego Medical Center. Beth’s parents were both World War II veterans, which inspired her to give back to the military community.
In 2009, Freedom Dogs ran a pilot program with the Wounded Warrior Battalion – West at Camp Pendleton. The results were amazing. The dogs helped Marines cope with post-traumatic stress and improved their recovery. This success created a lasting partnership between the Marine Corps and Freedom Dogs, the only one of its kind in the U.S.
Helping San Diego’s Heroes
Our trainers work directly with Marines at Camp Pendleton. Each session includes reports for their healthcare team to track progress, reduce anxiety, and set new goals. This close teamwork helps every warrior move forward with strength and purpose.
Freedom Dogs is proud to be based in San Diego, serving local heroes and their families. Nearly half of the 1.6 million service members returning from Iraq and Afghanistan face some form of disability. We work hard to make sure these brave men and women get the help they deserve.
Our Commitment
Freedom Dogs is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All our work is done by volunteers — no staff or trainers are paid. Every donation goes directly to helping wounded warriors heal and grow.
Join Our Mission
Your support makes all the difference.
Visit www.freedomdogs.org to learn more, volunteer, or donate today.
Together, we can help San Diego’s wounded warriors find hope, healing, and freedom again.
Contact Us
We’d love to hear from you!
Whether you want to donate, volunteer, or learn more, please reach out using the details below.
Freedom Dogs San Diego
521 Vandegrift Blvd., Suite D, Oceanside, CA 92057
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.freedomdogs.org
Phone no: (760) 696-3076
Follow us on social media to see our dogs and heroes in action:
🐶 Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
FAQs:
What is Freedom Dogs San Diego?
Freedom Dogs San Diego is a nonprofit that helps wounded military members heal and return to civilian life with the help of specially trained service dogs.
Where is Freedom Dogs located?
Freedom Dogs operates near Camp Pendleton in San Diego County, California, supporting Marines and other wounded warriors.
What does Freedom Dogs San Diego do?
The organization trains and provides service dogs that offer both emotional and physical support to help wounded warriors recover and rebuild confidence.
Are Freedom Dogs programs free?
Yes. Both of our programs — the Partner Program and Partner for Life Program — are completely free for all participants.
Who founded Freedom Dogs?
Freedom Dogs was founded in 2006 by Beth Russell, RN, a former critical care nurse at UC San Diego Medical Center who wanted to give back to the military community.
What makes Freedom Dogs unique?
Freedom Dogs is the only nonprofit in the U.S. partnered directly with the Wounded Warrior Battalion – West at Camp Pendleton, helping Marines in their recovery.
How do service dogs help wounded warriors?
They lower stress, improve confidence, reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress, and help warriors adjust to civilian life.
Is Freedom Dogs San Diego a nonprofit organization?
Yes. Freedom Dogs San Diego is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and completely volunteer-run. No staff or trainers are paid.
How can I support Freedom Dogs San Diego?
You can donate, volunteer, or share our mission. Visit www.freedomdogs.org to get involved.
Can I volunteer with Freedom Dogs San Diego?
Yes! Volunteers play an important role in helping with events, training, and outreach. You can apply through our website.
