Becky the English Labrador: Love, Training, and a Veterans Support And Hope

Gainesville, FL, United States – May 20, 2026 / Casper’s Camp Hope Dog Training /

Gainesville, FL – Monday May 18, 2026 – Casper’s Camp Hope Dog Training – The behavior specialists in Florida. announced the successful training and placement of Becky, an English Labrador selected through Hero Labradors, who has completed an intensive, real-world service dog training journey and has been matched with Nick, a young Army veteran living with PTSD.

Becky’s story reflects a mission-driven collaboration between Hero Labradors, the training team at Casper’s Camp Hope Dog Training, and the nonprofit The Underdog K9 For Vets Project, focused on helping the underdog thrive while supporting those who have served.

Selected by Hero Labradors

Casper’s Camp Hope Dog Training was selected by Hero Labradors as one of only a handful of top trainers nationwide to help prepare an English Labrador puppy for veteran service work. We don’t take that kind of trust lightly, said Jimmy Nievez, owner and lead trainer. From day one, Becky wasn’t treated like a dog in training, she was treated like what she truly was: a future lifeline.

Three Years of Training Built for Real Life

Becky completed approximately three years of structured development through Service dog training, including protocols designed to build emotional steadiness, confidence, and reliability under pressure. A key focus of her preparation included off leash obedience, a practical skillset for veterans who need freedom and safety in everyday environments and on outdoor trails.

Becky’s training was supported by a full team of trainers and kennel technicians who maintained consistent routines, clear expectations, safe structure, and calm connection, elements that are critical to producing dependable working dogs.

Mentor Dogs and a Family Environment

Becky’s development was shaped not only by people, but by the camp’s mentor dog pack. Becky was also the last student of Casper, the program’s main mentor dog, before his passing. She later learned social grace and confidence from Lolin, and was guided up to placement by Bernie, a mentor Saint Bernard.

Becky also spent frequent time in a family environment with service dog trainer El Junior, who integrated Becky into daily home life alongside his two children with autism, Denise and Milo, helping Becky practice real-world steadiness, connection, and calm responsiveness.

Veterinary Support and Mission-Driven Care

Throughout her stay, Dr. Michael Sturgeon supported Becky’s health and readiness, providing ongoing veterinary care and becoming a valued part of the extended team behind her.

Matched with Army Veteran Nick

Becky has been matched with Nick, a young Army veteran living with PTSD who enjoys nature and trail walks and has become active in support and awareness efforts aimed at preventing veteran suicide. Becky’s training especially her off leash obedience and public reliability, was designed to fit this lifestyle and provide steady companionship on both difficult days and hopeful ones.

About Casper’s Camp Hope Dog Training

Casper’s Camp Hope Dog Training – The behavior specialists in Florida. provides Puppy Training, Service dog training, and off leash obedience programs built for real-world reliability. Based near Gainesville, FL, the organization is known for structured training and behavior work that prioritizes clarity, safety, and lasting results.

Media Contact

Casper’s Camp Hope Dog Training – The behavior specialists in Florida.

Phone or Text: 13522222432

Website: https://www.casperscamphope.com

About The Underdog K9 For Vets Project

The Underdog K9 For Vets Project supports veterans and first responders by training and placing dogs that provide stability, confidence, and companionship, helping the underdog thrive while supporting those who served.