TOKA'S FRIENDS
Service dogs for military veterans
Jenny
This adorable little girl is named in honor of Capt. Jennifer Moreno who lost her life in Afghanistan in 2013. Captain Moreno, a nurse, sacrificed her own life while attempting to save others. We are confident that this little puppy will develop into an impressive service dog in honor of her namesake.
Chester
This sweet and energetic pup is named in honor of Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz who had a long and distinguished Navy career. Admiral Nimitz served as the commander in chief of the Pacific Fleet during World War II and concluded his career with a two year term as Chief of Naval Operations. The USS Nimitz, an Navy super carrier, was commissioned in 1975 and remains in service today.
Jesse
We are honored to name one of our puppies for a true American hero who is near and dear to our hearts. Ensign Jesse Brown was one of the first African American Naval officers and pilots. He lost his life in Korea while providing air support to American troops trapped near the Chosin Reservoir. Posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, Ensign Brown is the main figure in the recently released movie, Devotion. In June of 2023, we added this happy and intelligent little guy to the team. He will always be a reminder to us of the legacy of Jesse Brown.
Murph
This sweet and friendly little guy is named in honor of Lt. Michael P. Murphy ("Murph"), a Navy SEAL who received the Medal of Honor posthumously in 2007. Lt. Murphy was cited "For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life and above and beyond the call of duty as the leader of a special reconnaissance element with Naval Special Warfare task unit Afghanistan on 27 and 28 June 2005." Murph joined the team in March of 2023 and is already showing signs of being a service dog worthy of his namesake
Drew
Charismatic, feisty and snuggly, Drew joined Toka's Friends in July of 2022. He is named in honor of Sgt. P. Andrew McKenna of Bristol, RI who died while defending his base camp in Afghanistan. Sgt. McKenna's heroic actions ensured the safety of over 300 people, for which he was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart and the Silver Star. We know that Drew will carry on Sgt. McKenna's legacy by helping a military veteran struggling with PTSD.
Leigh Ann
This sweet girl joined Toka's Friends in May of 2022. She is named in honor of US Army Sergeant First Class Leigh Ann Hester. Sgt. Hester is the first woman since World War II to earn the Silver Star Medal and the very first to ever earn it for combat valor. When her squad was ambushed by insurgents in Iraq, Sgt. Hester led her team to defeat the enemy and protect the lives of every member of her convoy.
Shaye
This beautiful girl joined Toka's Friends in June of 2021. Shaye is named in honor of Shaye Lynn Haver, one of the first two women to graduate from the prestigious US Army Ranger School. We expect this puppy to be as impressive as her namesake.
Knox
In February of 2021 this handsome male joined the pack. Known as "Mr. Snuggles" when he came to us, Knox continues to be people oriented and self confident. Knox was placed with Manny in March of 2022.
Meah
This beautiful girl joined Toka's Friends on September 24, 2020. Sweet, affectionate and eager to please, Meah began her mission with Jay in September of 2021.
Gus
In May of 2020 we acquired Gus, a rough and tumble male black lab puppy. A very quick learner, Gus was paired with Vincent in January of 2022.
Bree
On June 15 of 2019, we acquired Bree, a female black lab puppy who is named in honor of the beloved dog of a generous donor. Bree and her partner Ryan have passed all of the service dog certifications tests and Bree is now living with Ryan and his family.
Lou
Joining Toka's Friends in December of 2018 this handsome guy is named Lou in honor of Kate’s uncle, Thomas J. Hudner, who earned the nickname Lou while in high school. Lou is very smart, can be a bit mischievous and loves to work. In January of 2020, Lou was matched with Army veteran Ian. Lou completed all of his service dog certifications in March of 2021.
Dixie
A rescue dog all the way from Texas and brought to us by PAWS New England. Dixie is a Great Dane/Black Mouth Cur mix. She is a gentle giant who loves human affection and enjoys lounging in the nearest sunny spot. Dixie truly thinks that she is a lapdog!
Toka
Toka is the personal pet of our primary professional dog trainer, Mike Howd. Toka is a great role model for our service dogs in training, teaching them how to live in a house with people and other animals. Toka is very patient with the new puppies that arrive and sets a good example as they spend over a year of training to become certified service dogs.
Toka and Dixie
Toka and Lou
Toka and Bree
Toka and Gus
Toka and Meah
