Enriching the lives of humans one paw and one step at a time
We believe that everyone living with a mental health disability deserves access to the life-changing support of a service dog. Through our initiative, we are turning that belief into action—by funding innovative research, supporting educational programs, and increasing the availability of highly trained service dogs. Together, we’re building pathways to companionship, confidence, and greater independence—one paw and one step at a time.
But our commitment doesn’t stop there.
We also recognize and celebrate the deep, ancient bond between dogs and humans—a connection forged through tens of thousands of years of co-evolution. Even in early tribal communities, dogs were not only hunters or guardians; they were companions, mirrors of emotion, and essential members of the human family. This bond is not incidental; it’s foundational. Dogs understand us—our gestures, moods, and needs—in ways no other species can. And in a world increasingly defined by disconnection, they reawaken a primal sense of belonging, of tribe, of true community.
Whether they are trained service animals, therapy and facility dogs, emotional support animals, or beloved companions at home, dogs offer us connection, comfort, and unconditional love. Their presence calms, motivates, and reminds us we are never alone.
That’s why we’re also investing in programs and partnerships that expand the reach of canine companionship—supporting educational efforts and elevating the role of dogs in mental health and wellness.
We aim to strengthen the evidence base that demonstrates the transformative impact of the human-dog bond. Until now, efforts to measure dogs' impact on mental health have been severely underfunded. But the truth about service dogs, for example, is already clear: the efficacy of a service dog in treating certain mental health conditions can exceed traditional interventions in both impact and cost-effectiveness. There is compelling research supporting this lived experience. It’s time we build out this foundation of evidence—with clarity, data, and conviction.
At the heart of our work is a simple truth: Dogs change lives. We’re committed to helping more people experience the joy, healing, and hope that dogs bring into the world every day.
Henry wasn’t just my service dog— he brought hope back into my life. His impact lives on in every step I take. Everyone in need deserves a partner like that.
—Barb Izzo | President | Mae Philanthropies
Research
Research Spotlight
Researchers have recently learned that veterans suffering from PTSD who are paired with service dogs have 66% lower odds of having PTSD than those without service dogs, even with full access to usual care, after only three months of partnership. Scientists have also learned that while traditional PTSD treatments see dropout rates as high as 50%, service dog programs show dramatically lower dropout rates (as low as 10%), making them substantially more effective in maintaining consistent treatment.
Learn about Human-Animal Interaction Research
Home to the largest faculty group dedicated to studying how human-animal relationships affect health and well-being, including research on the human-animal bond, service animals, and animal-assisted interventions.
Explore Canine Companions
Science & Research
Highlights two decades of research on canine cognition, genetics, health, and the impact of service dogs, with collaborations across leading universities and a focus on improving outcomes for service dog teams.
Visit Morris Animal
Foundation Studies
A searchable database of current and ongoing animal health studies, including research on canine health, genetics, behavior, and disease.
Resources
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
ADA.gov - Service Animals Information
ADA Requirements for Service Animals
Frequently Asked Questions about Service Animals and the ADA
PAWS for Veterans Therapy Act
The PAWS for Veterans Therapy Act establishes a five-year VA pilot program where veterans with PTSD train service dogs as therapy, while also authorizing the VA to provide service dogs to veterans with mental health conditions regardless of mobility impairment.
Assistance Dogs International (ADI)
ADI is the leading global coalition of nonprofit programs that ensures high-quality standards for guide, hearing, and service dogs through rigorous accreditation while providing resources to help people with disabilities find accredited programs worldwide.