The level of training that therapeutic dogs require to serve children with special needs is extremely expensive and all too often cost prohibitive. Since their founding in 1975, Canine Companions has provided dogs and all follow-up services at no cost to people with disabilities. They are located in Irving, Texas. 

Canine Companions trains the dogs as puppies, and when they are ready to be matched with a child with a disability, the child and dog are brought together for a two-week intensive training. Canine Companions is dedicated to the child/dog team long-term as dogs are recertified every year.

Studies have shown that there are many benefits to having a therapeutic dog for children with autism. Some of these benefits include: verbal skills, reduction of anxiety/stress, providing safety & security which reduces tantrums and elopement, an improvement in sleep, acting as a social catalyst in social skill development and a reduction in loneliness.

Canine Companions has a wonderful reputation, and a dear friend in the community has a child that has benefitted greatly from his companion from this organization. 

Any donation amount will be appreciated. It will go towards blessing a child with autism with a life-changing therapeutic dog in Sophie's honor.

Thank you!

(Donations to Canine Companions are tax-deductible).