Canine Carriers: How Mutts with a Mission Deploys Dogs at Sea
In this episode of Working Like Dogs, host Marcie Davis sits down with Brooke Corson, an activated reservist turned dog trainer and the visionary founder of Mutts with a Mission. Discover the inspiring journey behind this unique Virginia non-profit, which started with a single Cairn Terrier named Angus and grew into a groundbreaking force providing service dogs at zero cost to wounded warriors, veterans, and first responders. Brooke shares the fascinating backstory of how she helped author official U.S. Navy policy to deploy "Expeditionary Facility Dogs" (EFDs) directly onto active warships. Tune in to hear incredible, life-saving stories of these canine heroes—like Sage and Ike—who are providing critical mental health support, lowering stress, and building resilience for thousands of sailors deployed far from home.
Listen to Episode #210 Now:
BIO:
The history of Mutts With A Mission starts with one woman and her dog. Today, our story is told through the freedom of our heroes. In 2008, Brooke Corson founded Mutts with a Mission after witnessing the positive impact dogs provided to the troops returning from active service. During her time working at Fort Benning, she was inspired by the response her dog, Angus, evoked from the troops, it was clear that dogs held the power to heal.
Thanks to Angus, the spark of happiness he created at Fort Benning serves as the foundation of Mutts with a Mission. We help alleviate the burdens of mobility disabilities and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) from Veterans and Wounded Warriors, so that they are able to live a free life.
At the beginning of the organization, we focused our resources on solely serving Veterans and Wounded Warriors. In 2019, we were motivated to expand our reach to include First Responders and those who have experienced trauma in the line-of-duty. Suicide rates among these individuals were rising, and with a solution in hand, Mutts with a Mission began to help save lives. We are honored to serve Veterans, Wounded Warriors, and First Responders who experience PTSD and line-of-duty connected disabilities. These heroes have put themselves at risk serving our country and deserve to live independent and free lives.