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golden retriever in a blue service vest sitting in a beautiful landscape with green grass, river, and trees
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For the Love of Dogs and Great Wine

Stories of Independence

African american man in a sweatshirt with US Army logos with a yellow lab service dog in blue vest laying in his lap
Victor and Violet

Violet’s Turn to Serve

Army veteran Victor Greene loves spending time with his family, playing the drums and piano, and singing in his local church choir.

In 2005, Victor served in Iraq in a transportation unit, escorting troops all around the country. On a seemingly normal day, Victor last remembers being in a convoy. A week later, he woke up recovering in a hospital in Germany.

As a result of Victor’s service, he has a traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and is a Purple Heart recipient. When Victor was looking for a way to help reduce his PTSD symptoms, a psychiatrist at his local VA medical center suggested he apply for a service dog from Canine Companions.

In February 2020, Victor was matched with Service Dog Violet, who is trained in commands specifically designed to help mitigate the symptoms of PTSD.

Victor shares, “She’s the best thing that ever happened to me. Violet is amazing and so well trained. Since I’ve had her, I’ve been calmer and more relaxed.”

Expertly trained in over 40 commands, Violet wakes Victor from nightmares, interrupts his panic attacks, turns on and off lights, picks up dropped items and provides constant companionship. In return, Victor sings to Violet, takes her on long walks every day and brings her to work at his job in San Francisco, where she’s become quite popular. Violet has helped Victor work through PTSD flashbacks and panic attacks and allows Victor to be more comfortable in his everyday life.

Victor and Violet make an incredible pair. “She’s more than a best friend,” Victor shares, smiling. “She’s family.”

For more inspiration, please visit Our Stories page.

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Impact of Independence

Canine Companions is the most highly acclaimed and accredited service dog organization in the United States.

Our unique and proven team training sets us apart by ensuring the match between dog and human is powerful and lasting.

teams placed throughout the United States since 1975
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the number of interactions our dogs have in the community each year
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of service dog placements are successful
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of veterans report that quality of life has improved
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Canine Companions Highlights

puppy and service dog seating on grass

Here are some additional accomplishments we’re proud of from all six of our training centers across the United States serving all 50 states.

For more information about Canine Companions, please visit our home page or contact us.

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  • There are currently 2,650+ active graduate teams nationwide.
  • Over 98% of graduate placements are successful.
  • More than 4,700 volunteers support Canine Companions nationwide.
  • 45 volunteer chapters raise awareness and donations for Canine Companions across the United States.
  • More than 970 puppies are being raised by 1,000+ volunteer puppy raisers.

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