Giving Tuesday isn’t just a day to give. It’s a moment to look back, breathe in, and see the difference compassion has made. An international holiday, it’s the largest day of the year people donate to nonprofits to do good in the world.
Because of your support, Putnam Service Dogs created six new service dog teams in 2025—six stories of independence, safety, healing, and hope. And behind every placement is a journey worth sharing.
A Year of Accomplishments
Thanks to your support, here’s our six new service dog teams, each one a story of safety, independence, & hope.
Kephra & Gus
Gus picks up dropped items which helps prevent Kephra’s falls, supports him during severe headaches, and brings joy back into daily routines. . His fiancé shared, “My anxiety as a caregiver has decreased knowing Gus is there. Their bond has changed everything.”
Chris & Gertie
A Veteran once isolated by PTSD, Chris now walks seven miles a day with Gertie, sleeps better, and engages in life again. She gently wakes him from nightmares, sits with him during anxiety spells, and brings genuine joy back into his world.
David & Gizmo
Before Gizmo, David rarely left home. Now he even rides the subway, navigates crowds, and has a daily routine anchored by a tiny dog with a mighty purpose.
Victoria & Hope
Hope was rescued from the cold; her brother didn’t survive. Raised with love, she’s now a full service dog and constant companion to Vittoria, who’s gained confidence and independence through their partnership.
Olivia & Rolo
After a failed first placement down South, we rescued and rehabilitated him. Now he’s an inseparable companion of a young girl. He’s brought new confidence and comfort to his girl and her family.
Larry & Forest
A Purple Heart Veteran, Larry calls Forest his “battle buddy.” Forest gets Larry out of the house, helps him feel safe, stands by him in crowds, helps him with sleep struggles, and the hard days.
These are just a few of the moments your generosity made possible.
Why We’re Thriving — The Flywheel Is Turning
This was a year of momentum, built one small push at a time.
- Our staff is stronger than ever—a team that’s growing in knowledge, morale, and impact.
- Leadership is steady and strategic, with Nancy’s guiding vision we’ve achieved growth, and program excellence (and Nancy earned 2025 Brewster Chamber of Commerce Businessperson of the Year for it!).
- Training systems are sharper, and with more experience under our belts, everything—from placements to events—runs more smoothly.
- Our board is empowered and highly skilled, contributing meaningfully across oversight, marketing, fundraising, and event success.
- Community engagement is accelerating—from sold-out fundraisers to college partnerships to corporate volunteer teams.
- We’re sourcing the right dogs, training with consistency, and matching with care.
Just like Jim Collins’ describes in his classic, Good to Great, we can feel our flywheel moving—gaining speed with every success.
Looking Ahead
Three dogs are already preparing for 2026 service placements. A new 4-month-old pup joined us this fall and we have 3 other pups as well in training. Our training center is thriving. Applications are climbing.
And with your help, our reach will continue to expand.
This Giving Tuesday, You Can Change a Life
Every dollar helps train more free service dogs, support more families, and create more life-changing partnerships.
Help us keep the momentum going. Help us lift up more lives.
Nancy Teague, the founder of Putnam Service Dogs, is a dedicated advocate who embodies the mission of the organization every single day. Alongside the passionate individuals who have joined the cause, she works tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of both people and dogs. With an unwavering commitment to championing service dogs, Nancy understands the transformative power that occurs when a service dog is matched with its recipient, forging a remarkable team.
