Sign up to receive notifications when new stories are published to this webpage. Note: Click here to subscribe to general emails and enewsletters from Canine Companions.
U.S. Army veteran Chrissy first found out about Canine Companions for Independence at age 10 when her aunt was partnered with a Canine Companions assistance dog to help with multiple sclerosis. When Chrissy experienced a debilitating back injury while serving in the military, she knew she would turn to Canine Companions for her own assistance dog. Click here to read the full story.
Veterinarian Russ Gurevitch, DVM is considered by many to be as loyal and committed as the dogs he treats. “Russ is willing to do anything for Canine Companions®. He does great work and sometimes sings opera during surgery,” laughs Canine Companions Breeding Program Veterinarian Ruth Daniels, DVM. “His skills and knowledge have been invaluable. He is always there to offer his professional advice or a second opinion.” Click here to read the full story.
“Alohi’s really gotten into the rhythm of our family since she was matched with Zara. Alohi knows exactly when she’s working. Whenever she walks with Zara, she slows down to match Zara’s pace.” Click here to read the full story.
“Isaac is teaching Kaylor to listen to commands from the voice on his iPad, and Kaylor picks it up so quickly! Having Kaylor has helped Isaac when interacting with his peers. In the past, Isaac stayed 30 feet away from anyone, covering his ears and never looking at anyone, but Kaylor made Isaac visible.” Click here to read the full story.
“I love training dogs in obedience and I liked the idea of having a buddy for my black lab, but didn’t want a 14-year commitment. The dogs do so much more for us than we do for the dogs. And the impact is so far reaching. Not just one life, but many lives. It just makes you feel so good about what you are doing.” Click here to read the full story.
“I was first motivated to get a service dog when I was 16 years old to increase my independence. I had never been to the mall or the movies by myself. Even getting from the parking lot to meet a friend inside was tricky. I can’t imagine how different my life would be if I hadn’t gotten involved with Canine Companions for Independence.” Click here to read the full story.
“Being in special ops, they don’t teach you very much humility. When you have that mentality, and that’s the training that has been brought to you, to really humble yourself and let other people help you is extremely tough. But I’m telling you, it’s so much easier for a dog to do it.” Click here to read the full story.
“Often, people would see Bob stumbling and assume he was intoxicated. They didn’t understand that he was only under the influence of Huntington’s. People see Exeter in his blue Canine Companions vest and instantly understand that Bob has a disability. Now instead of confronting him, they offer their assistance.” Click here to read the full story.
“The skill with which Canine Companions instructors matched each human and dog team in my class was amazing. Each team was a perfect fit,” Chanler is playful, affectionate and a diligent worker. He aims to please and takes pride and joy in alerting me to sounds every day.” Click here to read the full story.
“Over 80% of the kids we serve are victims of child abuse or neglect. Mabel has had countless, powerful interactions with the kids we serve. She is happiest when she is working.” Click here to read the full story.
