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.

Ryden and Santana

Unfamiliar places used to cause 9-year-old Ryden extreme discomfort due to anxiety associated with cerebral palsy. Ryden is unable to speak, and his muscle movement is limited as a result of his disability. However, a snuggly, affectionate service dog named Santana would change everything for his new best friend.

“It was a perfect match right away and Ryden’s life has drastically changed for the better,” says Ryden’s mom, Heather.

With Santana by his side, Ryden and his family can go out to public places with ease. If Ryden starts to feel uncomfortable, Heather will have Santana lay his head on Ryden’s lap, redirecting anxiety towards petting Santana’s head, playing with his ears and rubbing his back. Santana has bridged a gap between Ryden and other kids his age, and provides unbeatable, unconditional love.

“Santana brings so much joy by being someone that doesn’t distinguish Ryden as having a disability, but simply sees him as a friend,” states Heather. “Ryden knows how much Santana loves him.”

There is no doubt that Santana is making a difference in Ryden’s life. As Heather says, “I have seen Ryden smile more since he was matched with Santana than I have in his entire life.”

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!