Retrieving Independence

Anna Mills a year ago

As a recipient of a service dog from RI, I cannot emphasize enough just how truly life changing this organization's work is. Love, dignity and change are the heart of everything they do and this comes through in every interaction that I have with them. Staff did everything in their power to prepare me for the journey of becoming a service dog handler, and that support extends far beyond bootcamp. Certified professional trainers are just a phone call away to support me with any of my needs and answer questions. My dog has been absolutely life changing for me. The countless hours of training and love that they poured into his training have given me the gift of independence and allowed me to better mitigate my disability. It is truly incredible how great the dogs are. I have never second guessed bringing my dog anywhere, and we are frequently told by strangers that he is the most well behaved, focused service dog they have ever encountered. I have 100% confidence in my dog in all environments, including places as chaotic as Disney World. I would absolutely recommend them to anyone looking for a service dog.

Lesa Prime a year ago

I've read the good and not so pleasant reviews on RI, how they treat/train their dogs, the placement of dogs, etc., but my experience hasn't been bad. I received my service dog from them in 2023, unfortunately he didn't work out ONLY because of barking issues. I was devastated to give him up after all the work I put into reducing his barking. RI (Rebekah) stayed in contact with me during this process and assisted in additional training instructions. I didn't think I could open up again to RI or even another service dog. In 2024, RI introduced me to my current service dog who is an amazing loving, and dedicated dog! He's allowed me to travel and get involved with so many organizations, knowing if I start getting sick he'll alert me before things get out of hand. Some of the reviews talk about no follow up after graduation, unavailability to get help afterwards, etc. My experience hasn't been like that. IF, I have a problem, I call, email, or text and Rebekah always gets back with me. They've also initiated monthly check-ins which allows everyone not only see each other but, get feedback with whatever's going on. I've seen so called "service dogs", misbehaving in public and am gl

Anne Mazyck a year ago

I am currently on my second dog from Retrieving Independence. Every interaction I’ve had with Retrieving Independence has been positive. If I’ve ever had a question or concern, they respond quickly. Service dogs have improved my life in a million ways. Both dogs are incredibly well trained. They are trained by prisoners and then taken all over Nashville on weekends. I have never worried about taking my dog anywhere and I get compliments on him all the time. . I’ve looked at other places and I plan to stick with Retrieving Independence. They truly embody love, dignity, and change.

stuart murphy a year ago

Not really sure what’s up with all the 1-star reviews. I’ve volunteered with Retrieving Independence many times. Had friends do their puppy raising program. It’s only been stellar work from the org and the team. It’s puppies. It’s giving people meaning, both thru the dog training programs and to those who receive the graduated dogs. It’s puppies! I truly don’t know where the hate is coming from (and it doesn’t sound like it’s deserved) but Retrieving Independence is doing awesome, life changing work. Did I mention the puppies and dogs?

Heather Banner a year ago

I am a long time volunteer with RI. I greatly believe in their mission and best practices put into place in recent years to make it an even better organization. Seeing the pups raised from birth through graduation with their client is remarkable. I am thankful to be a small part of their mission of Love. Dignity. Change.