Canine Companions and FFA
About
National nonprofit Canine Companions provides service dogs to individuals with disabilities, and facility dogs to professionals working in a variety of settings, at no cost.
By partnering with Future Farmers of America (FFA), we endeavor to provide students with an understanding of the service dog industry, while sharing opportunities for students to directly make an impact that will last a lifetime.
Ways to Get Involved
- Volunteer Classroom Visit: Host a Canine Companions volunteer puppy raiser and the future service dog they are raising. Learn about our program, witness a training demonstration, and receive some puppy love!
- Help Raise a Puppy: We appreciate all of the amazing volunteers who help make our mission possible -- including the people who help raise our future service dogs! Learn how you or your class can raise a puppy and change a life.
- Support Our Canine Health & Wellness Program:: Breeder dogs and their puppies are the foundation of Canine Companions. Learn about the science and research behind our renowned breeding program, and see how you and your class can get involved. (Note: In order to participate in this program, your class must be located in proximity to Canine Companions' Northern California headquarters. Please contact our staff to learn more.)
- Host a DogFest Fundraiser: DogFest is our signature fundraising event, and takes place year-round. Create a DogFest fundraising team with your class, and create your fundraiser of choice! Plant sales, bake sales, and cook-offs are some fun examples.
Interested in Getting Involved?
Submit an interest form today:
“The best thing about our partnership with Canine Companions is that it gives real-world experience to the world of service animal training. Teachers can partner with the organization on as big or as small of a project as their curriculum or facilities allow.”
-Candice Franks, Agriscience Instructor and FFA Advisor at Badger High School
What does Candice love about partnering with Canine Companions?
“Watching kids grow in their communication skill sets both verbally and nonverbally as they train. Students who are not as active in the beginning typically shine when helping with the training by the end of their semester course.”
Educational Opportunities
Science and Research
For the past 20 years, Canine Companions has been the pioneer in canine research, setting the path and leading the service dog industry to success. By studying canine cognition, health and genetics, it is our goal to improve the success of service dogs and the dogs’ impact on their handlers. Learn about what the Canine Companions Science and Research team is studying!
Service Dog Etiquette
At Canine Companions, we understand the importance of providing a platform for our clients to feel heard and supported. Learn about the best way to interact with a service dog and their handler and practice in a classroom setting with one of our skilled volunteers and their puppy in training!
Advocacy
As the first and largest nonprofit provider of service dogs, Canine Companions is leading the industry and advocacy efforts for our clients. Learn about how we are working with elected officials to provide a more inclusive space for service dog users. It’s never too late to become an advocate!
