Henderson Trainers Help Veterans with PTSD Through Service Dogs

Danielle Brooks, an Air Force veteran and former combat medic, experienced severe anxiety and PTSD during the Vegas Golden Knights’ 2023 Stanley Cup parade, according to Las Vegas Weekly.

Nola, a labradoodle Brooks adopted as a puppy from Louisiana in 2023, was trained to sense rising anxiety and respond with grounding actions, such as hugs or circling Brooks in crowds.

Colin and Celeste O’Keefe, who run Dog Training Elite Henderson, led an 11-session training program that included at-home lessons, public outings, and daily homework for Brooks.

Brooks said, “Having her has taken the place of medications. I’m not saying it’s the right thing for everybody, but for me, it’s made a difference.”

O’Keefe explained the distinction between service dogs and emotional support animals: “A service dog is trained to actually intervene and help with a medical moment, whether it’s anxiety or diabetes.”

Dog Training Elite Henderson, led by Colin O’Keefe, started as a franchise in 2022 and has trained at least seven service dogs for veterans.

Brooks recounted times when Las Vegas business staff tried to refuse her entry, requiring her to explain Nola’s legally protected role to police, who affirmed her ADA rights.

She summarized her experience: “You’re not going to ask me to leave if I’m in a wheelchair. Why are you going to ask me to leave because I have a service dog?”

Veterans Day 2026 gives Brooks a chance to advocate for better education about the roles and importance of service dogs for people with invisible injuries.