Our Story
Founded by veterans, for veterans
Top Dogg K9 Foundation was founded by Blake and Sheila Rashad in 2011.
“The inspiration for launching TDK9 Foundation came as a result of my own struggles with depression. I always had a trained dog by my side and was able to hide my anxiety and depression for years from people around me. After my wife observed the noticeable difference when I was without a dog, she inspired me to start speaking about my challenges and to help others by training service dogs for them while acknowledging and sharing my struggles — a huge gift to others who were also struggling. In fact, while I had trained dogs in the past for obedience, the first ‘service’ dog I trained was for myself.
The catalyst for launching TDK9 Foundation came after I met a retired combat veteran who had served in two wars during his 20-year career. I knew I could take my expertise in dog training and my military background to make a tremendous impact on the future health and wellbeing of this particular veteran. The warrior was given a service dog and was able to realize an immediate change in his quality of life.”
Today, TDK9 stands on a simple principle: Veterans Deserve Outstanding Generosity and Service (VDOGS). We rescue, train, and pair service dogs with disabled veterans and those facing mental health challenges after deployment, at no cost to them.
“I didn't understand many of the stressors service members face until it hit home with my sons, who joined the military at 18, fresh out of high school. I've seen the effects their service has had on them.”
