Empowering veterans and first responders through 100% free, owner-involved service dog training, peer support, and lifelong community.
Founder Testimony
"When I hit my lowest point in 2025—screaming in my car, drinking 10 AM martinis, and isolating from my family—VFR was the organization that helped me out of my funk. They didn't charge a dime. Jennifer and James took me in, gave me hope, and helped me train Martini. VFR gave me my life back."
Dedicated Leadership
Led by founder Jennifer Shrout and experienced first responder & military personnel who understand frontline trauma and the power of working service dogs.
Founder & Master Trainer
LA County Sheriff's Department (Ret.)
Jennifer served as a Deputy Sheriff with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. Following her service, she founded VFR to provide frontline personnel with task-trained service dogs at zero financial burden.
Lead Trainer & K9 Specialist
Gunnery Sergeant, USMC (Ret.)
James served as a Gunnery Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps and is one of the lead trainers at VFR. He brings decades of practical working dog discipline, handler coaching, and peer support to frontline teams navigating post-service recovery.
The VFR Model
Handlers train alongside their dogs over a 2-year structured program to ensure deep bond, reliable task execution, and public confidence.
Building rock-solid foundational obedience, focus under distraction, and gentle public-access manners.
Training specific tasks tailored to the handler's needs (leg shaking alerts, watch-back support, item retrieval, nightmare awakening).
Refining tasks in real-world environments like restaurants, stores, airports, and crowded events over a thorough 2-year journey.
Learn more about VFR's 100% free owner-involved service dog program for veterans and first responders.
