Imagine a world where wagging tails bring hope, independence and joy to those in need. This is the reality that Canine Companions for Independence has been creating since 1975, by providing expertly trained service dogs to children, adults and veterans with disabilities free of charge. With more than 7,800 graduate teams and a robust network of volunteers, their mission is clear: to enhance the lives of people through the power of incredible canine companions.
Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers and Lab/Golden-cross puppies are bred in Santa Rosa, California and carefully selected by veterinarians based on their health and temperament. After their time with volunteer puppy raisers in different locations around the country, including in local homes with volunteers from the Cin-Day Chapter, the pups go to regional centers to undergo specialized training and socialization tailored to the unique needs of the people they will assist.
Some dogs alert their hearing-impaired owners to alarms, ringing phones, unusual sounds and danger. Others assist with fetching items, opening drawers and doors, paying with credit cards and helping with dressing and laundry. For those on the autism spectrum, dogs offer comforting nudges and help redirect heightened emotions. For veterans with PTSD, dogs interrupt anxious behaviors, wake them from nightmares and create a personal space in public.
Dogs trained by Canine Companions provide crucial support in various settings. They work in physical and occupational therapy, assisting at several Cincinnati Children’s Hospital locations. Canine Companions is also the only organization to place a dog in the Cincinnati court system, offering comfort to children.
Diane Gudaitis and Beth Tumbleson are two dedicated puppy raisers with the local Cin-Day Chapter. Canine Companions’ dogs get their start at these loving homes.
Diane shares, “A raiser has the dog full time. They get the dog at eight weeks and raise them in their homes up to 18 months. We’re involved in the long-term development of the puppies, preparing them for their future roles as service dogs by teaching them 30 commands, which are the foundation for their advanced training.”
At 18-months-old, the dogs transfer to a regional training facility.
“Our training center near Columbus evaluates each dog's strengths and temperaments to ensure they’re perfectly matched with individuals based on their specific needs,” Diane explains. “They then undergo six more months of extensive training.”
Realizing everyone may not have the time for an 18-month commitment, Canine Companions has started a program where volunteers can become starters or finishers. Starters and finishers each have the dog for six or nine months. Volunteers can also become sitters, providing temporary care that matches their calendars.
Beth shares a glimpse into a day spent training her puppy, Brazil.
“Puppy raising includes socializing her, taking her to puppy and obedience classes and taking her out in public,” she says. “Whether it’s to a church or a park, I make sure she has a full range of experiences around other animals, people and places.”
While other service dog organizations charge in the five-figure range, Canine Companions’ dogs are provided free of charge. The application process enables accepted applicants to have a companion animal within a year and a half to two years.
“We not only raise and train puppies but also fundraise and host gatherings to support the cause, ensuring everyone has the support and resources they need,” Diane adds.
Beth notes, “Even though puppy raising is an unpaid position, it's worthwhile. It's a wonderful way to invest in and empower someone with a disability. You feel good about the commitment. It’s exciting and it’ll change you.”
The journey of these service dogs is supported entirely by sponsors and donors. Many local vets also offer discounts on their services.
Canine Companions is looking for help to continue this life-changing work. Volunteer puppy raisers play a pivotal role in shaping the future of these dogs and teaching them the foundational skills they need to become successful service animals. Additionally, support as a corporate or individual sponsor is crucial in sustaining programs and expanding reach.
Diane urges, "We are always in need of more puppy raisers to join our organization."
Canine Companions is committed to reaching an ambitious goal by 2025—to become the most recognized leader in their industry, providing expertly trained, high-quality service dogs free of charge to all qualified applicants. As they strive to eliminate their waitlist, they aim to set a new standard of best practices, ensuring that no one in need is left waiting.
Join the Cin-Day Chapter of Canine Companions in this fulfilling journey of service to make a profound difference, one puppy at a time.
Canine Companions | 800.572.BARK
Canine.org, Canine.org/location/north-central/chapter/cin-day-chapter