Enhancing Independence

As we celebrate 50 years of Canine Companions, we remain dedicated to enhancing the lives of children, adults and veterans with disabilities by providing expertly trained service dogs at no cost. Our service dogs are trained to assist with daily tasks, offering independence and confidence to those in need. Whether it's a student achieving their dream of attending college, a veteran getting a restful night’s sleep, or a patient enduring an additional procedure, lives are transformed when matched with a Canine Companions service dog.

Buddy & Service Dog Kiva

At DogFest Southwest 2026, you'll have an opportunity to hear from a Canine Companions client and learn firsthand of the life-changing difference your participations provides. United States Air Force veteran Buddy, alongside his service dog Kiva, addressed the audience at DogFest Southwest 2025 to share his story of independence.

“She’s a really great motivator,” Buddy said of Kiva, whom he credits with keeping him active. “She’s expecting something to be happening all day until it’s time to sleep. And I go to veterans’ groups and tell them, ‘What gets our butts out of bed? Well, when your dog is there looking at you, you know your day’s begun.’”

Providing Kiva with the care she needs and full, engaging days gives Buddy a sense of fulfillment. An avid beachgoer, he said that taking his Service Dog to enjoy the Pacific coastline in San Diego County — playing Frisbee and soaking up the sunshine — is one of his favorite pastimes with Kiva.

In turn, Kiva is a loyal and trusted companion. She is the third service dog Buddy has been partnered with. Though well-acquainted with the process, he still marvels at their ability not only to assist with routine tasks like retrieving items, but also to intuitively know when it’s appropriate to do so.

Since our inception, Canine Companions has placed over 8,000  service dogs. Yet, hundreds of individuals with disabilities are still waiting for their very own perfect match. Your fundraising efforts through DogFest play a crucial role in supporting this mission and helping us extend our reach to those in need.

Get started today, and help  make a difference, as we mark 50 years of transforming lives!

Learn more about Canine Companions at canine.org.

National Service Dog Month

DogFest is our  signature event, taking place in cities across the country. We hold DogFest in or around September to celebrate National Service Dog Month—a time dedicated to honoring the hard work and life-changing impact that service dogs have every day on people with disabilities .  Together, let’s celebrate five decades of remarkable achievements and  life-changing impacts we’ve made and will continue to make in the future! 

Click here to learn more about National Service Dog Month!

About Service Dogs

DogFest is a day to celebrate the joy that all dogs bring to our lives, from working dogs to beloved pets. Did you know that service dogs have specific access rights and roles that differ from those of pets?

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service dogs are legally allowed to accompany their handlers almost anywhere, including places where pets aren’t  permitted. While you might see them out and about in the community, remember that service dogs are working and have important tasks to perform. Handlers often welcome questions and interaction, but keep in mind a few essential etiquette tips.

Click here to learn more about Service Dog etiquette.

We encourage you to meet some of our Canine Companions clients and their service dogs at DogFest and to keep these important tips in mind!

Register you and your pups for DogFest to receive a free bandana and join the fun!