Enhancing Independence
Canine Companions enhances the lives of children, adults and veterans with disabilities by providing expertly trained service dogs at no cost. Our dogs are trained to assist with daily tasks to provide independence and confidence. A student achieves their dreams of attending college. A veteran gets a good night's sleep. A patient can endure an additional procedure. Lives are transformed after being matched and working with a Canine Companions service dog.
Matt Lindblad
Matt Lindblad of Islip, New York received his second service dog, Boylan, from Canine Companions in May, 2022. Matt previously graduated with Canine Companions service dog Eisen when he was a child. Today Matt is enjoying a career as an artist. Matt graduated for Fordham University with a degree in art history and political science.
“Working within my own physical limitations has forced me to explore alternative ways of expressing myself. I choose to express myself through art using color, composition and form”, says Matt.
“Everyone at Canine Companions is dedicated to creating a wonderful working team. Boylan is a great ice breaker for me in public, and he provides companionship for me when I’m on my own. Boylan helps me in many areas of my everyday life by providing physical tasks. He’s of great assistance picking up items off the floor when I’m using my wheelchair. He can turn lights on and off, open and close doors. We’ve had many great times together navigating the world as a Canine Companions service dog team!”
Justin Kaniper
Justin Kaniper is no stranger to the benefits of a life-changing service dog. His first Canine Companions dog, Holiday, recently retired from his service dog duties, so in 2023 Legolas stepped in to help Justin navigate through life’s daily challenges. According to Justin’s grandmother and legal guardian, Michele Ciofalo of Lafayette Hill, Pennsylvania, having a service dog has made such a positive impact on Justin.
“He was very shy with a terrible speech impediment which at times left him lonely and isolated. But with a service dog by his side, Justin gained the confidence he needs to interact with people in ways he never could before,” Michele says. The duo have become inseparable.
Justin does his homework with Legolas, reads to him and takes him for walks every day. Legolas continues to help mitigate Justin’s anxiety, and despite difficulty speaking, Justin is proud to introduce Legolas to new people. “Legolas makes Justin laugh hysterically. The two of them are always finding adventures and Legolas is so curious, they usually get in a pickle. You can just feel the stress pour out of him.” Michele says. Justin adds, “I know Legolas was made special for me. He makes everything better.”
Maddie Paolero
Maddie Paolero and her family of Portsmouth, Rhode Island have a long history with Canine Companions. Maddie is a Canine Companions successor graduate with her second service dog “JJ”. Maddie’s two Canine Companions service dogs have made such an impact on her family, she and her mom Beth decided to give back by becoming volunteer puppy raisers. “I have been involved with Canine Companions since I was 13 years old. Having received two service dogs from Canine Companions already, I can say they have made such an impact on my life. JJ’s ability to “get” is one of the most important tasks he performs for me, since I use a wheelchair. As a bonus he is a good snuggler and so funny! I am so glad that I have been involved with our local DogFest; it has given me the chance to give back to this awesome organization that paired me with my life-changing companion!”
Canine Companions has placed more than 7,600 service dogs, but hundreds of people with disabilities are still waiting for their match. Your DogFest fundraising efforts support this important mission – get started today!
Learn more about Canine Companions at canine.org.
National Service Dog Month
DogFest is Canine Companions' signature event, taking place in cities across the country. DogFest falls during or near the month of September as a connection and celebration of National Service Dog Month, a month dedicated to honoring the hard work and life-changing impact service dogs make on people with disabilities every day. Join us as we celebrate this important work today and all year long!
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, whether working dogs or loving pets. But did you know that service dogs have different access rights and roles than pets do?
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service dogs are legally allowed to go almost anywhere with their handler, even where pets cannot. This means you may see them out and about in your community. Remember that they have a job to do. Often, handlers welcome questions and enjoy interacting with the public, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
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 remember these important tips!
Register yourself and your pups for DogFest to receive your free bandana and join the fun!