Retrieving Independence

Retrieving Independence Empowering lives through service dogs.

We train and place highly skilled service dogs while transforming lives through volunteerism, community partnerships, and second chances. 🐾💛 We are a registered 501(c) non-profit organization that breeds, trains and places top quality service dogs with children and adults living with physical and mental disabilities.

Retrieving on the Ridge is just one week away!On June 13 a group of our trainers will be running the Retrieving on the R...
06/06/2026

Retrieving on the Ridge is just one week away!

On June 13 a group of our trainers will be running the Retrieving on the Ridge 5K in solidarity.

Our inmate trainers are part of our prison-based service dog program, where they spend their days raising and training future service dogs. This rehabilitative program provides structure and purpose while helping prepare dogs for advanced service work that changes lives.

Support the Inside Track Pack's mileage on race day and fund the work behind every service dog in training.

💙 Donate today: https://loom.ly/Ktvy-u0

"Having a service dog has made all the difference in my life and is the only reason I’m able to play this sport that I l...
06/06/2026

"Having a service dog has made all the difference in my life and is the only reason I’m able to play this sport that I love."

Thank you, Anna, for sharing your story and for reminding us what these partnerships are all about: the freedom to pursue what brings us joy. Whether that's playing our favorite sports or giving our service dogs a chance to show off their favorite cues, in Kylo’s case: "boing." 💙

"The power of love, dignity and change is truly boundless."

Retrieving on the Ridge is just around the corner!Join us June 13 at Mill Ridge Park for a 5K supporting the training of...
06/01/2026

Retrieving on the Ridge is just around the corner!

Join us June 13 at Mill Ridge Park for a 5K supporting the training of service dogs and the lives they change. Every step helps create life-changing partnerships—on both ends of the leash. 💙

Whether you run, walk, roll, or wag, everyone is welcome. With an accessible route option, a family-friendly atmosphere, and plenty of tail wags, it will be a morning built for community and connection.

♿ Accessible route option�👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly�🐾 Dog-friendly�🦮 Supports service dogs & second chances

🎽🏅 Sign up by Wednesday, June 3 to guarantee a race-day medal + T-shirt.

Grab your leash, gather your people, and meet us at the start line! 🏁

Register Here: https://loom.ly/hrQ9V-4

[VD: A poster with a light green background displays text that reads: “Run a 5K with your dog!” and describes an accessible, dog-friendly, family-friendly 5K occurring June 13th at Mill Ridge Park 7:45 - 10:30AM. The event is presented by TINCUP Whiskey.]

Three new future service dogs are heading this way and they need puppy raisers! 🐾We provide the training and support: yo...
05/27/2026

Three new future service dogs are heading this way and they need puppy raisers! 🐾

We provide the training and support: you provide the love, socialization, and a place to grow. It’s one of the most impactful ways to help create a future service dog team. ❤️

Interested? Apply at the link in our bio.


[VD: 2 photos show yellow lab puppies looking at the camera. They are very cute.]

This Memorial Day, we’re sharing that scholarship opportunities are available for veterans applying for a service dog th...
05/25/2026

This Memorial Day, we’re sharing that scholarship opportunities are available for veterans applying for a service dog through Retrieving Independence 🇺🇸

Thanks to generous donors, two full service dog scholarships are available for veterans 🐾

Learn more about applying at the link in our bio.

Today, we remember those who gave their lives and honor all who served.


[VD: A yellow lab in a blue service dog vest sits in front of a veteran memorial. 2 yellow labs and a black lab sit in front of American flags in 3 different photos. In another photo, a white lab hugs a person kneeling in grass. The final photo shows a yellow lab in a blue service dog vest.]

Another day, another LifeFlight session 🚁🐾Sirens, ambulance rides, and plenty of new experiences for Valor and Vernon to...
05/20/2026

Another day, another LifeFlight session 🚁🐾

Sirens, ambulance rides, and plenty of new experiences for Valor and Vernon today. These sessions give our dogs invaluable exposure to real-world medical environments. Huge thanks to for their continued partnership. 💙


[VD: A yellow lab and black lab lay down in the back of an ambulance. They are wearing blue vests. One photo shows the yellow lab resting his chin on a person’s knee.]

05/16/2026

Training Outings 🤝 Community Partners

This month, our dogs in training spent time working in public spaces at Mill Creek Brewing Company. They practiced positional cues in a restaurant-style environment, learning how to navigate busy spaces successfully, and exploring the ways service dogs can assist their handlers out in the community. 🐾

Huge thanks to KP and the whole Mill Creek team for welcoming us in. Between the patio, games, food truck, and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s such a fun spot to train and hang out in, and we already can’t wait to come back. Check them out in Nolensville! 🍻💙

05/11/2026

One month out! 🏃‍♀️

Our community 5K is almost here! Whether you want to run it, walk it, roll it, or just come be part of the day, we’re inviting you to the Ridge! Every registration helps support service dogs and second chances.

🏃 5K run/walk (timed optional)
🐶 Dog-friendly event
💛 Community-focused
♿ Accessible participation

📅 June 13, 2026 | Check In: 7:30 AM, Start: 8:00 AM
📍 Mill Ridge Park | Antioch, TN

Details + registration in bio! 🔗


Ren’s placement as a Facility Dog at Poplar Grove Middle School () feels a little like the galaxy aligning at exactly th...
05/07/2026

Ren’s placement as a Facility Dog at Poplar Grove Middle School () feels a little like the galaxy aligning at exactly the right time.

Named after the Star Wars character, Ren officially began her new role on May 4th (Star Wars Day!) because apparently the Force has a great sense of timing. ✨🌟

She’s now settling into school life, bringing her steady presence and calm to students and staff alike. 🐾💛

May the support be with them! 🌠

April birthdays are here—no showers, just a couple of very good dogs. 🌸A very special happy birthday to these pups!🎂 Tur...
05/04/2026

April birthdays are here—no showers, just a couple of very good dogs. 🌸

A very special happy birthday to these pups!

🎂 Turned 2: Ren & Shirley

If we missed an April birthday, consider this your official excuse for an extra treat. 🐾

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Honey Alexander Center, 2400 Clifton Avenue
Nashville, TN
37209

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