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.

Ava and Service Dog Hawaii 
15-year-old Ava of San Francisco has a form of muscular dystrophy called nemaline myopathy, and she mostly uses a wheelchair for mobility. In 2018, Ava was matched with Service Dog Hawaii. Now, Ava has expertly trained Hawaii by her side to pick up dropped items, carry her backpack, turn on lights and much more! “Hawaii tugs me out of bed, it’s the best,” Ava says with a smile. Hawaii has even learned to help Ava walk up the stairs using “tug” task.

“Ava has completely blossomed. She’s more willing to use her muscles, and I think it’s because of the bond she has with Service Dog Hawaii. If she needs help, she can ask Hawaii, not mom, dad or one of her brothers,” says Ava's mom, Cynthia.

“It’s like a weight has been lifted off all of our shoulders, because I know that she has a connection with her dog. Hawaii brings hope to Ava and motivates her.” Cynthia continues, “The amount of change and hope that Canine Companions has brought to our family and will bring to other families – it’s priceless.” Ava shares, “Hawaii is the perfect dog for me.”

Luke and Service Dog Rummy
Luke of Truckee, CA has always been an athlete. Ten years ago, Luke was in a snowboarding accident that caused a spinal cord injury, leaving him unable to walk. Now he uses a wheelchair for mobility and continues to participate in the snow sports he loves, albeit a bit differently.

In 2019, Luke was matched with Service Dog Rummy free of charge. Since then, Luke has been able to keep up his active lifestyle thanks to the life-changing assistance Rummy provides.

Luke shares, “Rummy helps me daily with picking things up, pulling me in my wheelchair, turning on and off lights, and so much more. His ability to pull me is nothing short of amazing and it helps save my shoulders from overuse, allowing me to keep up with my active lifestyle.”

Randy and Service Dog Virginia 
Navy veteran Randy of Marina, California has a spinal cord injury from his time in service, causing him issues with mobility, balance and stamina. Service Dog Niosh “Neo” provided nearly a decade of assistance increasing Randy’s independence. When Randy saw Neo slowing down, he knew he would benefit from another four-legged partner. 

Randy was recently matched with Service Dog Virginia. Virginia joyfully picked up where Neo left off. “Virginia has greeted me with affection since the very first day we met in class,” shares Randy. “She always has her eye on me.” 

Virginia opens doors for Randy, including the push button at his local VA hospital. She also picks up dropped items like his wallet and car keys – even his crutch! “She performs commands with such energy and enthusiasm that it causes me to smile and laugh, bringing more joy into my life.” Randy continues, “These dogs are truly transformative.”
 

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. 

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!