Leashes of Valor: One Leash Saves Two Lives
Photo Credit: Karen Presecan Photography
Leashes of Valor is a 501c3 nonprofit organization founded by Marine Corps Captain Jason Hagg.
Jason served for 13 years in the Marine Corps before being medically retired, after being injured in Afghanistan. This was not his first injury. He had been injured before and in true Marine fashion, he kept going until in his words, “I zigged instead of zagged.”
Post Marine Corps Jason struggled with his post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injuries. After trying different modalities to get his symptoms under control, it was being matched with his service dog Axel, that changed his life.
The facility is in Fredericksburg, Virginia called Axels Place, a fitting tribute to the dog that saved Jason’s life. Their number one mission is to provide quality service dog to veterans.
They have a rigorous training process for their dogs. They like to rescue dogs as much as they can, the dogs then stay in training for at least 18 months before being matched with a veteran.
Once the training is complete (Jason says, training is continuous), the matched veteran gets invited for a 7 day stay at Axels Place. Included in their stay is an in-home chef. They then go through training together. They cover everyday chores and whatever tailored specific need for that veteran. They get taught all the commands for the dogs to maintain their training.
Once the veteran leaves with the dog to start their new lives, the mission is not over. Leashes of Valor provides lifetime care for their dogs. They have continuous follow-up communications with the veterans, so they never feel like they are fighting any battle alone.
Their principal trainers are retired FEMA search dog trainers and handlers. They were part of the rubble search of Oklahoma City and the attacks on September the 11th.
This incredible standard of excellence makes them a trailblazer for service dog training. They are the first of their kind to host veterans in a home to provide hands on training with their dog.
In addition to their service dog program, they have a golfing program that provides outdoor recreation free of charge to wounded and disabled veterans called the Valor Cup. This program allows veterans to reconnect with other veterans in an outdoor setting.
The community really came together to get Axels Place going. For example, Powell’s Furniture donated bedroom furniture to furnish the bedrooms where the veterans will be staying. They are always in need of volunteers. The property sits on 10 acres of land. They need assistance with mowing, painting, and my favorite one, playing with puppies.
Jason travels around the country with service dogs in tow to promote the organization and their programs. Sitting with Jason, you can truly tell his passion for service is continuous. He may not be in uniform anymore, but he continues to serve his fellow veterans in a different capacity.
Sadly, Axel passed away in January of 2023, but he left a strong legacy behind. To find out more about Leashes of Valor and how you can support them, please visit https://leashesofvalor.org/
