Canine Companions - Matching Service Dogs with People with Disabilities
Over 120 dogs matriculate to our training facility each year.When a dog is cleared to proceed with professional training, they will spend the next 6-9 months mastering 40+ task-based commands. Future service dogs receive ongoing health evaluations and examinations, administration of flea, tick, and heartworm medication, vaccinations, good hygiene, and enrichment experiences while in our care. Varied and regular enrichment is imperative to their success and overall well-being as it allows our dogs to channel any stress they may develop and is also a standard requirement for all ADI accredited service dog providers.
After a thorough application process, clients are invited to Team Training where they are matched with their service dog based on their unique needs. Under the guidance of our professional instructors, recipients train to utilize their new service dog's 40+ commands and learn canine care. They also bond with their classmates, sharing meals and training together most days.
Although many of our recipients would say that the benefits of a service dog are immeasurable, the actual costs incurred by Canine Companions to support one new partnership equates to $50,000, including breeding, puppy raising, training, Team Training, and follow-up services until the dog's retirement (8-10 years).