Veteran Focused
Every veteran brings a different story. We begin with the individual, listening to their needs, goals, and daily life as we explore a suitable partnership.
Our Mission
No Buddy
Left Behind.
Helping veterans build independence, confidence, and companionship through service dog partnerships.
Veterans. Service dogs. New beginnings.
Two lives.
One powerful bond.
The Buddy System Inc. is an Indiana nonprofit dedicated to connecting U.S. veterans with service dogs and the support needed to grow together as a team.
We help coordinate suitable dog matches, first year veterinary care, training through selected professionals, and ongoing guidance. The veteran and dog learn together, building a partnership shaped around the veteran's needs.
Based in Columbia City, our work is rooted in community and the belief that no veteran should have to take the next step alone.
What guides every Buddy Pair
Training Partners
Veterans and dogs train together through selected professionals. We help connect the team with training support and handler education.
Community Supported
Donors, volunteers, and local partners help make this work possible. Their support helps each Buddy Pair move toward a new chapter.
Support from the first conversation
A Buddy Pair is a partnership built over time. Our process brings together the veteran, a suitable dog, and the people who help them move forward.
Application & Review
We learn about the veteran's needs and review the application and supporting verification from their VA or primary care provider.
A Suitable Match
We consider the veteran's needs and the dog's suitability, prioritizing shelter and rescue options when appropriate.
Veterinary Support
We help support the dog's health by funding first year veterinary care as part of the Buddy Pair program.
Training Together
The veteran and dog work with a selected training partner to build the skills needed for their service dog partnership.
Handler Education
Training includes guidance for the veteran as a handler, helping them understand and maintain the skills they learn together.
Continued Connection
Oversight, check ins, and ongoing guidance help keep each Buddy Pair connected to support as the partnership develops.
Our role: The Buddy System Inc. coordinates and supports the partnership. Service dog training is provided by selected training professionals, rather than directly by our organization.
A few questions, answered
How do I ask about a Buddy Pair?
Email [email protected] to request application information. Our team can explain the next steps and what supporting information is needed.
Does The Buddy System train the dogs?
Training is provided through selected professional partners. The veteran and dog train together, while The Buddy System helps coordinate and support the process.
Where do the dogs come from?
We prioritize shelters and rescues when a suitable match is available. A dog's suitability for the veteran and the service dog role guides the matching process.
Does applying guarantee a placement?
Applying begins the review process. A placement depends on the application review, a suitable match, and available program resources. Contact us to discuss your situation and current availability.
How can I help?
You can donate, volunteer, or ask about becoming a Mission Partner. Every contribution of time, resources, or support helps carry the mission forward.
Be part of the next chapter.
Help create the next veteran and service dog partnership. Together, we can keep moving toward a future where no buddy is left behind.