Project Delta

A huge shout out to our newest foster Rhonda Keniston! She has taken on our latest prospect dog Gunther! With permission from those in these images, you can see he he has a love for serving people in a calm and purposeful manner. Follow Gunther’s journey as he works the program! Petco Love, Denise Hansen, Post 96 American Legion Hutchinson, MN, Palmer Lake VFW Post 3915, Ruff Start Rescue, Northwest Area Jaycees

It takes a special dog with the desire to work to be a facility dog!

Introducing our newest Project Delta team member! I have known Nikki Pikal for a really long time. She has far too many amazing qualities to list however her love and dedication to both the dog and the handler exemplifies her commitment to the mission! We all have such gratitude for her willingness to keep our financials and compliance in order. Welcome Nikki! Petco Love, Denise Hansen, Ashley Brotten

Learning the ropes of being able to quietly relax and trust those in your presence and care eventually creates bonds of loyalty for both the dog and those he/she serves. This takes hours and hours of practice. The trainers expertly , create endless scenarios and opportunities for the dogs to master these skills they will bring to their job resume! Petco Love, Denise Hansen, Ashley Brotten, Post 96 American Legion Hutchinson, MN, Order of Ronin MC, MADD Minnesota, Palmer Lake VFW Post 3915 Ruff Start Rescue

Today is Memorial Day. It makes me think of my Grandpa and my Dad. Both were reasons I started Project Delta. They served in WWI and WWII and witnessed and participated in the horrors of their time in combat. Sadly for each of them, transitioning to the civilian world offered few options. Thank goodness we have made significant advances for both veterans and first responders alike. Thank you to all of you for your support and helping keep Project Delta’s door open! If you wish to make a donation towards any part of our mission be it a veteran, a first responders or a dog, please go to our website and click the donate button!
Www. Project-delta.org

Most days I cannot make training sessions to observe and enjoy these dogs and handlers. I do my best because being present to see them learning and growing fuels us all at Project Delta. Especially when our trainers have to step back, re-access, pivot and implement a new process. Not every dog learns exactly the same way. It takes patience and perseverance on everyone’s part. The Crystal Police Department open house demonstrated how patience, the right dogs and expert trainers delivers! Petco Love, Denise Hansen, Ashley Brotten, City of Crystal Police Department, Post 96 American Legion Hutchinson, MN

What a great opportunity to spend time with Denise Hansen and Quincy at the Medical Examiner’s office showing off their skills. Quincy is a very special dog within all our hearts. She settled in beautifully as she worked with staff employee Megan. Petco Love, Order of Ronin MC, Second Brigade Motorcycle Club Minnesota Post 96 American Legion Hutchinson, MN

Project Delta had the privilege of joining the MADD Minnesota Minnetonka event not only to talk about our mission, but to support the efforts of this life changing group! Quincy was a hit! Denise Hansen, Ashley Brotten Petco Love

Our sweet boy Sampson!! Petco Love

This Mental Health Awareness Month, remember: taking care of yourself helps you take care of everything else.

Burnout is real, and even small changes can help:
• Turn off work notifications after hours
• Take social media breaks
• Get quality sleep
• Make time for movement and connection
• Use healthy coping skills like music, journaling, mindfulness or meditation

When we're feeling stressed, Sampson usually comes to the rescue. Drop your favorite stress reliever or work-life balance tip in the comments ⬇️

Congratulations on your graduation from LSU Rachel Gapinski!! Rachel has fostered and trained two of our Project Delta dogs and introduced us to Companion Animal Alliance in Baton Rouge! Now let’s get you into Vet school!