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.

Rob Garlick and service dog Fritter:  

While serving in the U.S. Army, Rob developed resilience and tenacity as a leader of a multi-cultural team. But his service took a toll. 

“In combat, I saw things no human should see,” Rob shared. “The trauma caused me to isolate myself and avoid social situations.” 

Rob applied for a Canine Companions service dog to help with symptoms related to PTSD. He was matched with service dog Fritter in March of 2023 to help reduce his anxiety and hypervigilance, and to interrupt his nightmares. With Fritter by his side, Rob says he is now hopeful for the future. 

“Fritter has given me a second chance at life. I am grateful to the volunteers, donors and staff at Canine Companions who made it possible for me to live with greater independence, confidence, and joy.” 

Kya Miles and service dog Sprinkle:  

Anyone who knows 19-year-old Kya, knows she is a force to be reckoned with. Kya is currently studying at Wright State University, with the goal of one day becoming a civil rights attorney. The little free time she does have is spent advocating for Canine Companions.  

Kya was born with a rare physical condition called Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita, or AMC for short. As a busy college student, she values service dog Sprinkle for being there to assist with picking up dropped items and opening doors.  

“Advocacy is something that I'm incredibly passionate about, and always will be,” says Kya. “By living my most authentic life, I'm helping to break stigmas that have been placed by harmful beliefs and misconceptions.” 

Patrick and Service Dog Julio:  

Don’t let Canine Companions graduate Patrick’s age fool you; at just 7 years old, his list of accomplishments is pretty outstanding.

Over the past two years, Patrick has met Kansas City Chiefs Defensive End George Karlaftis, he’s made multiple appearances on live television, has helped raise more than $30,000 by fundraising with Culver’s, and has made plenty of new friends at school.

Through all of these exciting opportunities, Canine Companions service dog Julio was right by Patrick’s side.  

Patrick was matched with Julio in 2022 at the North Central Training Center. Patrick's mom, Brie, says Julio has greatly enhanced her son's independence; from assisting in physical therapy, to serving as a social bridge for Patrick when trying to make new friends at school.  

Patrick entered second grade this fall with newfound confidence thanks to Julio.

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!