Thank you for supporting a cause near to my heart.
I'm excited to participate in DogFest Southwest 2025 because I love dogs and know the joy they bring to our lives every day!
I also deeply believe in Canine Companions and their mission to provide expertly trained service dogs to adults, children, and veterans with disabilities—completely free of charge.
In the lead-up to DogFest Southwest 2025, I'm raising funds to support this amazing mission. The impact these dogs have on the lives of people with disabilities is truly incredible. I’d love your help in reaching my fundraising goal! Every little bit helps us get more of these wonderful Canine Companions into the lives of those who need them.
Thank you for considering a donation!
Also, enjoy the slideshow showcasing the journey of puppy raising my first two Canine Companions future service dogs, plus a sneak peek of puppy number three, Hilo, who arrives on September 3rd!
December 2022, Diesel arrives as an 8-week old future Service Dog
Diesel was the first pup, and I co-raised him with Stephanie Webber, who'd recently raised Verbena. From 8 weeks to 16 months, Diesel learned basic commands and socialized with children and adults. We gradually exposed him to stores, libraries, hair salons, post offices, trains, and even boats. Diesel had plenty of fun playing with his friends each week.
February 2024 Diesel Matriculates to Professional Training
At the Canine Companions regional campus in Oceanside, Diesel spent 6 months learning everything he needed to become a professional service dog. Then he spent another 2 months in a specialized program for veterans with PTSD, where he could really shine.
August 2025 Carson matriculates to professional training!
Carson was ready for professional training. It was a bittersweet day, but I know he'd mastered what I could teach him. Now he's surrounded by his pals, playing twice a day, in addition to lots of training where he's being challenged, learning plenty of new skills.
After 10 months of professional training, Diesel was matched with a Marine Corps veteran who served for five years. I got to meet her and her mom, and we shared a book chronicling Diesel’s puppyhood. It was a wonderful time to connect, and I could see that they are the perfect match.
Reuniting with Diesel after 10 months was one of the most emotional moments of my life. I got to spend some time together when I told him how proud I was of the amazing service dog he has become. As a volunteer puppy raiser, I’m passionate about the Canine Companions mission, which matches service dogs with individuals at no cost. It’s incredible to see how these dogs change lives, and your support can help make this happen for more individuals with disabilities
Hilo is one of 5 puppies born on July 14, 2025. His Mama Raspberry was raised by my friend Lianne Chu, who will be raising Hilo's littermate, Helga. Many puppy raisers choose to raise their "grandpuppy"!
Nina Friedman
Thank you, Marjorie, for all the wonderful work you do for this amazing organization. The puppies you raise are so lucky to have you. Love, Nina and Eric
August 2025$207.00
Anonymous
August 2025$100.00
Nancy Roberts
You are remarkable! Your dedication and love is so inspiring.
August 2025$155.25
Marjorie Nass
July 2025$1,500.00
Marjorie Nass
July 2025$1,500.00
Nina Friedman
Thank you, Marjorie, for all the wonderful work you do for this amazing organization. The puppies you raise are so lucky to have you. Love, Nina and Eric
August 2025$207.00
Nancy Roberts
You are remarkable! Your dedication and love is so inspiring.
August 2025$155.25