Atlas the Wonderdog

Atlas the Wonderdog Atlas the Wonderdog is a Service Dog to disabled Marine veteran, Kenny Bass. Ares is his protégé. Atlas was named the 2017 AHA Service Dog of the Year.

Atlas is a working German Shepherd service dog to disabled Marine veteran Kenny Bass. He also serves as the "face" of The Battle Buddy Foundation. Much like a super hero, Atlas the Wonderdog has his day job, working as a service dog to his disabled Marine veteran, and helping to advocate for service dog and veteran issues. Then whenever his help is needed, day or night, he faithfully comes to the rescue, and "saves the day"....
Also, much like a super hero, Atlas is a symbol of hope and faithfulness to so many in the veteran and service dog communities. Atlas stands as a shining example and a regal reminder of the incredible benefit service dogs can have in the lives of their disabled handlers. Atlas is the grandson of Odin Vom Holtkamper Hof, and Hill Vom Ferbenspiel. His grandfather, Odin, is the 2005 18-24 month Sieger VA1, 2008 VA2, and the 2008 Chinese Sieger VA1. His grandmother, Hill, is the 2004 Sieger VA2. http://www.pedigreedatabase.com/german_shepherd_dog/dog.html?id=737236-atlas-vom-hare-haus

“I’ve got your six.” In our world, that’s not a slogan - it’s a way of life.In these photos, Atlas is in his cover/watch...
11/06/2025

“I’ve got your six.”
In our world, that’s not a slogan - it’s a way of life.
In these photos, Atlas is in his cover/watch-my-six position: to watch my back, create space, and alert if someone approaches. For many combat veterans, that simple layer of safety lowers hypervigilance so we can stay present with our families.

What this position helps with:
• Creates space in crowds (block/cover)
• Alerts to someone coming up from behind
• Grounds with calm contact if anxiety rises
• Guides to exits or quieter areas when needed

Service dogs turn overwhelming places into manageable moments - one quiet task at a time.

“You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”  -Marcus Aurelius
11/05/2025

“You have power over your mind - not outside events.
Realize this, and you will find strength.” -Marcus Aurelius

Two throwbacks, one big truth.📸 11 years ago: store-front family photos of Atlas sitting proudly with my two oldest chil...
11/03/2025

Two throwbacks, one big truth.

📸 11 years ago: store-front family photos of Atlas sitting proudly with my two oldest children, Zavier and Sienna, already part of the team.
📖 7 years ago: Kinley, my youngest, reading to Atlas on a lazy Saturday, dutifully paying attention, like he didn’t want to miss a word.

Atlas wasn’t only my Battle Buddy; he was the kids’ steady friend, making bedtime calmer, outings easier, and our home a little lighter. Service dogs don’t just support the veteran; they strengthen the whole family.

Atlas the Wonderdog was my very best friend. ❤️❤️He was loved so much, by so many. ❤️
11/02/2025

Atlas the Wonderdog was my very best friend. ❤️❤️
He was loved so much, by so many. ❤️


Atlas the Wonderdog was a happy boy. 😁
11/01/2025

Atlas the Wonderdog was a happy boy. 😁

Role reversal: Atlas wore the polo; the human went full German Shepherd. 10/10 teamwork, 12/10 for creepiness. 🎃 🐾      ...
10/31/2025

Role reversal: Atlas wore the polo; the human went full German Shepherd.
10/10 teamwork, 12/10 for creepiness.
🎃 🐾


10/29/2025

Service Dogs in Public: What to Know
(feat. Atlas at work) 🐕‍🦺

When a service dog’s vest is on, they’re on duty. These dogs are task-trained medical partners, not pets, and their behavior- not a vest or ID - proves it.

What a trained service dog looks like:
• Calm, quiet, and under control
• Settled at their handler’s feet or tucked under the table
• Not begging, wandering, barking, or seeking attention

Friendly reminders for everyone:
• Please don’t pet, call to, or distract a working dog. Always ask first - and be OK with “no.”
• Teach kids why we give service dogs space.
• In the U.S., the ADA doesn’t require a national ID or certification - training and behavior are what matter.

For restaurants & businesses:
• Teams are welcome anywhere the public can go.
• If a dog is out of control or not housebroken, you may ask the team to step out.
• You may ask only two questions: Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability? and What work or task is it trained to perform?

Thank you for helping keep real service-dog teams safe and focused. Please share to spread good etiquette. ❤️



10/28/2025

Walk home with Atlas from the park🌳🌻

October 27 is widely observed as Día de Mu***os for pets, a moment to honor the companions who still walk with us in spi...
10/27/2025

October 27 is widely observed as Día de Mu***os for pets, a moment to honor the companions who still walk with us in spirit.

Tonight I’m setting a small ofrenda for Atlas: his photo, collar, a favorite toy, a bowl of water, and cempasúchil (marigolds) to light the way. In old Mexica tradition, xoloitzcuintli dogs guided souls across the river, fitting for a service dog who guided me through life.
The main holiday continues on Nov 1 (for children, Día de los Angelitos) and Nov 2 (for adults, All Souls’ Day), but today many of us begin by welcoming our animals home.

If you’d like to join us, make a simple display, light a candle, and share a photo of your pet in the comments - tell us their name and one thing they loved. 🕯️🌼🐾
Feliz Día de Mu***os, Atlas.
Always by my side.

***os

Atlas the Wonderdog always enjoyed waiting in the front yard for the school bus. ❤️
10/26/2025

Atlas the Wonderdog always enjoyed waiting in the front yard for the school bus. ❤️

Atlas the Wonderdog always enjoyed the cooler temps this time of year. I sure miss that pup. ❤️
10/25/2025

Atlas the Wonderdog always enjoyed the cooler temps this time of year.
I sure miss that pup. ❤️

10/25/2025

Did you know??
Atlas Insiders is a private group for all of Atlas the Wonderdog 's biggest fans and supporters!!
From memories to momentum. Atlas Insiders gives you VIP access to the Atlas & Friends book and the path to our future Battle Buddy.
Your support moves this mission forward. Click Subscribe to join the core team. https://facebook.com/groups/atlasinsiders/

Address

8859 Cincinnati-Dayton Road Suite 202
West Chester, OH
45069

Website

http://atlasandares.myshopify.com/, https://www.facebook.com/OriginalBattleBuddy/subs

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