About us
We can’t change the world, but we can change how a family views the world.
our VISION
Realizing the full potential well-trained Service Dogs and Therapy Dogs have to create miracles by: Conducting positive reinforcement training, employing those with the desire to make a difference, never turning away a family for insufficient financial means and fulfilling our social responsibility through an elaborate community involvement program.
our FOUNDER
Erik Kolbow is a medically retired SFC(R) of the United States Army with nearly 13 years of active duty service. His vision to train dogs for the purpose of creating a new quality of life for families began when his Mine Detection Dog Homer was forced into retirement due to PTSD. Following a year-long deployment to Afghanistan that included historical achievements, catastrophic events, and memories that will stand the test of time, Erik realized he needed Homer as much as Homer needed him to overcome the hardest battle either had ever faced…invisible wounds.
Erik and Homer receiving the Combat Valor Medal
Erik’s dog training background started during his 12+ years in the Army and continued in the civilian sector as a trainer at K9s For Warriors for a year. After creating 5-Star Dog Training to fund his vision, Erik’s passion to help others finally took form in the shape of P.A.W. Service Dogs.
Erik with a young Mylo
Mylo was chosen with Erik’s assistance via a live zoom call with Nicolette. Mylo and Nicolette were the first pair to work with Erik from procurement to public access and task-related assessments. Nicolette is one of many individuals Erik has helped who did not have the financial resources typically required to receive the 1+ years of training a service dog needs.
Erik with Bongo at his first vet appointment
Bongo will be P.A.W. Service Dog’s first “homegrown” service dog. Bongo was donated for the sole purpose of creating a new life for someone in need. Bongo’s primary focus will be either for a child with autism or an individual with a psychiatric disability.