The Vision
A Paw Forward
Retreat
A retreat-style training campus we're building — where dogs become bridges, connecting veterans, families, and communities through structured programs and second chances.
Rescue. Train. Serve. Inspire.
We build programs where dogs help people heal — and people help dogs become who they were meant to be.
A Paw Forward Retreat is a mission-in-motion. The work happening today in New York and the retreat vision share the same foundation: safety-first, force-free training and small, repeatable routines that change real life.
— Theresa, Founder
Four Programs, One Mission
How We Move Forward
Forward Bound
Veterans & Shelter Dogs
Forward Bound is a program in development that pairs carefully selected shelter dogs with veterans and first responders — creating working teams built on structure, trust, and follow-through.
Program Highlights
- ✓Shelter dogs are assessed and trained in phases
- ✓Veterans come to the retreat to bond, learn, and build a working team
- ✓Safety-first, force-free training standards
- ✓Support plans that continue after the retreat stay
- ✓Partnership-focused (veteran orgs, shelters, sponsors)
- ✓Launching in phases as the property comes online
Camp Haven & Hound
Kids + Their Dogs
A school-break camp where kids attend with their own dog. They learn leadership, empathy, and safe dog skills — while their dog learns calm routines right alongside them.
Program Highlights
- ✓Kids attend with their own dog (not a drop-off dog program)
- ✓Confidence-building games + training foundations
- ✓Safer handling, better communication, stronger bonds
- ✓Structured routines designed for real families
- ✓Sensory-friendly options and calm spaces
- ✓Planned program (interest list forming)
Paws & Anchors
Autism Support (Pilot)
A pilot program in development focused on training anchor dogs for autistic children — building steady, practical skills that support safer daily routines for families (including support around elopement risk).
Program Highlights
- ✓Safety-first, step-by-step training roadmap
- ✓Family-centered routines and coaching
- ✓Real-life environments (not rushed public access)
- ✓Clear criteria for readiness and safety
- ✓Built carefully and responsibly (no hype, no shortcuts)
- ✓Pilot program · curriculum in progress · awaiting property
Unleashed Leadership
Retreats + Education
A place for trainers, helpers, and leaders to learn, reset, and level up — without burning out. Workshops, intensives, and small-group retreats in a beautiful setting.
Program Highlights
- ✓Workshops, intensives, and small-group retreats
- ✓Skill-building with heart and standards
- ✓Trainer retreats may include dogs for hands-on learning
- ✓Corporate retreats and conferences are people-focused
- ✓Custom programs tailored to your group's goals
- ✓Planned program
Questions About the Retreat
Be Part of This
The right support does the most good
before the doors open.
We are actively seeking financial partners, in-kind supporters, volunteer professionals, and advocates who want to be part of something that matters.
💰 Financial Support
- → Property acquisition costs
- → Renovation of existing buildings
- → Kennel construction & training fields
- → Forward Bound — first veteran cohort
- → Shelter dog intake, assessment & care
- → First trainer certification cohort
🤝 In-Kind Support
- → Building materials, tools & construction labor
- → Veterinary services & supplies
- → Training equipment — leads, harnesses, clickers
- → Technology — website, booking, documentation
- → Professional services — legal, accounting, grants
🙋 Volunteer Your Expertise
- → Dog trainers — join a training weekend
- → Veterans — share your story, consult on design
- → Educators — help design camp curriculum
- → Families — your voice shapes our programs
- → Anyone changed by a dog — you already understand
Get in Touch
Whether you want to donate, volunteer, partner, or simply follow our journey — we'd love to hear from you.