My name is Mike and I would like to share my success story in being a
recipient of a Service Dog, through Kingston 4 Paws.
I was diagnosed with Systemic Post Traumatic Stress Injury in 2018.
After a long two years of therapy I knew there had to be a better way
to help me cope with my injury. This is when I started the search and
was led to Service Dogs
My journey began when I reached out to the Kingston 4 Paws
organization back in November 2020 and began inquiring about their
services, in particular obtaining a service dog. I must say, the staff
were very receptive and informative and quickly guided me through the
extensive process.
My first positive encounter was a home visit, where I had the great
pleasure of having four beautiful animals visit and mingle with them.
Little did I know I was being monitored as well and a match was being
processed. The staff were very professional and super informative
making the visit a comfortable one. I sat on the base of my steps and
immediately a Black Lab named Lincoln came to me with his big head and
huge paws, rested his head on my lap and I was overwhelmed with his
soft kisses. The staff explained the process and the waiting period to
be teamed with one of their animals.
Fast forward to April of 2021, I started attending training sessions
and worked with some smart dogs, in particular with my luck, a
big-headed huge pawed dog named Lincoln. Wow was he so smart and he
made me feel on top of the world. I wasn’t comfortable in public
places until I met Lincoln. He was the same dog I would dream about.
November 2021 I was working with Lincoln and the staff had advised
me, I was approved for a Service Dog. The news was a very pleasurable
and very overwhelming. The tears began to flow when they announced
that Lincoln was being homed and that he was being homed with me. Wow,
my life turned around that day.
I received Lincoln at the end of November 2021 and I can not praise
Kingston 4 Paws and the staff who trained such an animal. They deserve
every acknowledgment, praise and accolade for their work. I can not
thank them enough for the greatest gift bestowed onto me. I have
accomplished a lot of confidence again in my life and walk with my
head held high.
Lincoln was my best friend and a huge warm hug to the people who made
this possible. Sadly, Lincoln passed unexpectly in the Spring of 2025.
I was devastated. But this October (2025) I was thrilled to learn that
a Beau, a chocolate Labrador, was being paired with me. We bonded instantly.
You at Kingston 4 Paws are the greatest staff. Words can not describe
how much you are part of changing my view of life. I will be forever
grateful to you guys. Lincoln was, and Beau is, truly awesome. Than
you for doing a great job bringing them into my life.
Friend Forever
Mike
