NOTE: Throughout this web site, the names of clients and their dogs have been changed, and the faces of clients have been hidden, to protect their identities.

Service Dogs for Victims of Assault Welcome to the web site for Service Dogs of Victims of Assault (SDVA). It is the goal of SDVA to make this website a safe, informative place where you can learn about service dogs as a therapeutic aid for victims/survivors of assault who suffer from a disability covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). SDVA is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping people who have been assaulted, raped, stalked, or otherwise harmed physically or mentally. There are different ways that victims/survivors of trauma can be helped. The use of companion animals as a therapeutic aid has been well established in the professional literature as an effective method. As you read these pages and learn about a few of the victims/survivors we have helped, we hope that you will be encouraged, knowing that there is hope for victims/survivors who want to turn fear into confidence. SDVA is the Vision & Commitment of Sherri Goldstein, Founder and Director. One person CAN make a difference. Learn more about the service dog quilt fundraiser/scholarship.