Empowering Veterans Through the Life Buddy Program
Built on trust, strengthened by training — a veteran and their Life Buddy walking forward together.
At Fetch This Canine, we believe that a well-trained dog can be life-changing — not just for the dog, but for the person walking alongside them. That’s why we’re honored to partner with Sierra Delta, a nonprofit organization committed to empowering veterans through purpose, community, and the companionship of a Life Buddy dog. “Veterans give so much. Helping them build a strong relationship with their dog through training is the least I can do to give back,” says Denise Bozenski, owner and head trainer at Fetch This Canine.
Learn more about Denise HERE!
About Sierra Delta
Sierra Delta is a national nonprofit that offers veterans the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with their dogs through personalized training support. Their Life Buddy Program is open to any U.S. veteran — not just those seeking a service dog — and includes training grants, education modules, and wellness resources.
Whether a veteran is looking for basic obedience or more advanced training, the program provides a flexible and supportive path to success.
Learn more about Sierra Delta HERE!
What Fetch This Canine Offers
As a Phoenix-area trainer for the Life Buddy Program, Fetch This Canine provides a structured, hands-on training experience that is fully covered by the $3,500 grant awarded to eligible veterans.
“This program is about more than obedience — it’s about building leadership, confidence, and connection,” Denise explains. “You and your dog will be learning and growing together, and I’m here to guide you through every step.”
Check out our blog on balanced training, Balanced Dog Training: What It Is, Why It Works & How It Aligns with Holistic Training
Program Highlights
Weekday Immersive Training
Your dog will stay with Denise Monday through Friday for three weeks. During that time, they’ll receive daily training focused on foundational obedience, calm behavior, and real-world reliability in a variety of environments.
Read more about ecollars and how they're so beneficial to balanced and holistic training at our blog, How E-Collars Enhance Balanced & Holistic Dog Training.
Weekend Home Practice
Every Friday, you and Denise will meet for a one-hour private coaching session. You’ll get a walkthrough of what your dog has learned, observe demonstrations, and be given a weekend training plan to work on at home. “This isn’t a drop-your-dog-and-leave program. It’s interactive. The veteran is just as involved as the dog — that’s how real transformation happens,” Denise says.
Post-Training Support
Once the immersive training wraps, you’ll receive four one-on-one follow-up sessions in real-world settings to solidify and expand your skills:
- In Your Home – Structure, boundaries, and routines
- At a Park – Recall, leash work, and public manners
- At a VFW or Veteran Space – Calm focus around people
- In a Store – Navigating busy indoor environments
Wellness Consultation
Veterans will also receive a personalized wellness consultation that covers holistic approaches to keeping your dog healthy and happy — including nutrition, supplements, emotional balance, and preventative care. “I’m a holistic pet wellness coach, so I love helping veterans understand how nutrition, stress, and environment affect behavior,” says Denise. “A well-balanced dog is a better learner, and a better Life Buddy.”
Learn more about Denise's holistic company, Revive & Thrive Canine Wellnes, HERE!
Lifetime Refresher Support
This training comes with lifelong access to refresher sessions, ensuring that you and your dog stay on track for years to come.
How to Begin
Ready to step into leadership with your Life Buddy? This program is more than training — it’s a path to purpose, connection, and confidence for both you and your dog. “This is your dog, your mission, your journey,” says Denise. “I’m just here to help you thrive together.” If you're a veteran looking to build something meaningful with your canine companion, Fetch This Canine and Sierra Delta are here to guide you.
Apply through Sierra Delta today and let’s begin the journey together.
Get started at Sierra Delta HERE!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the grant cover?
The $3,500 Sierra Delta grant covers everything: three weeks of immersive training, boarding, an E-Collar Technologies Mini Educator 300, three learning sessions, four follow-up sessions, a wellness consultation, and lifetime refreshers. There are no hidden fees.
Do I need to already have a dog to apply?
Not necessarily. You can apply if you already have a dog or plan to adopt one. Sierra Delta supports veterans in all stages of the dog ownership journey.
Can I stay involved in my dog’s training?
Yes — and your participation is not just important, it’s required by Sierra Delta. This program is designed to strengthen the bond between you and your dog, which means you’ll play an active role every step of the way. From weekly coaching sessions to weekend practice, you'll be hands-on throughout the process, gaining the skills and confidence to lead your Life Buddy with purpose.
