OFP has served 462 clients and rescued 386 dogs from shelters

By Kaylee Arca – Gilroy Life

Operation Freedom Paws is celebrating a decade of life-changing therapy. The nationally renowned nonprofit organization pairs veterans, first responders and children who suffer from PTSD and psychological and physical disabilities with service dogs for a 48-week training and healing regiment.

OFP hosted a gala Saturday, Sept. 25, to commemorate the 10th anniversary. Guests were entertained with dinner, dancing, silent and live auctions, and live music including from a band made up of former clients.

Gilroy resident Mary Cortani began the program in January 2010 when a Marine veteran named Josh called her on the phone looking for a service dog. He could not afford the estimated $10,000 to $35,000 it would cost to train a service dog. Cortani, a dog trainer, is a Vietnam-era Army veteran, a certified Army Master of Canine Education, and has worked with search and rescue teams.

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