Retrieving Independence is a Nashville-based nonprofit that breeds, trains and places service dogs with people who are living with a mobility, medical, or psychiatric disability. We also place skilled companions & facility dogs.
Changing lives, one dog at a time.
At Retrieving Independence, our mission is to increase independence and restore dignity through the training and placement of working dogs. As an accredited member of Assistance Dogs International, we adhere to the highest standards in service dog training and placement. Our vision is to transform lives and communities through the love, hope, and dignity fostered by the human-animal bond.
Our unique program brings together three essential groups—incarcerated trainers, dedicated volunteers, and the clients who receive our service dogs—to create meaningful change.
Trainers gain purpose, confidence, and skills while raising future service dogs.
Volunteers support this process, assisting with puppy raising, socialization, and training so each dog can reach its full potential.
And our clients experience the life-changing impact of a service dog, gaining independence and support tailored to their needs.
As a Nashville service dog nonprofit, we are proud to serve our community.
Love. Dignity. Change.
Love.
Puppy Raising:
Volunteer to raise a future service dog! Whether it’s a few weeks or the full journey, every moment helps shape a dog’s success—and we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Join our ever-growing community today!
Dignity.
Prison Program:
Our partnership with the Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) trains dogs while offering purpose and personal growth to incarcerated individuals. Our unique models ensure weekly counseling for our trainers.
Rehabilitation, redefined.
Change.
Become A Client:
Our dogs are trained to meet mobility, medical, or psychiatric support needs. We walk with you through the application process with compassion and clarity.
Your journey to independence begins here.
