Canine Companions unites people with service dogs in a powerful program that creates life-changing independence for Colorado residents with disabilities.
"At the age of 29 when I was diagnosed with a progressive muscle disease, I was a triathlete and a mountain climber, very active and very much on the go. As my illness has progressed, I have had the interesting experience of transitioning from the "normal" world to the "disabled" world. Lucky has enabled me to start a new chapter in my life, one even richer and fuller than I could have imagined."
-- Graduate Randi Price and Canine Companions Service Dog Lucky
"Getting an assistance dog was like getting my life back after my injury. I don't have to rely on other people as much anymore."
-- Operation Iraqi Freedom Veteran Calvin Smith (USMC) and Canine Companions Serivce Dog Chesney.
"Once I've answered a few questions about Dash, people realize that although I am in a wheelchair, I am the same as anyone else. Dash has helped to bridge a gap that shouldn't exist anyway--the gap between me as a woman with a disability and the rest of the able-bodied world."
-- Graduate Emily Cikra and Canine Companions Service Dog Dash
"There is one student who I spent years trying to teach to say hello and goodbye. Then one day he started saying hello and goodbye to Yori. Soon he said it to me, and now he does it with his fellow students." Graduate Elizabeth and Canine Companions Facility Dog Yori
"Satine is a true soldier's soldier! She has given me back hope, motivation, responsibility, pride and self confidence."
-- Lance Weir (USMC) and Canine Companions Service Dog Satine
Canine Companions is a national nonprofit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing expertly trained service dogs to adults, children and veterans with disabilities and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships, free of charge.
Founded in 1975, Canine Companions is the world's largest and oldest 501 (C) (3) not-for-profit organization of its kind, providing highly trained service dogs to individuals with physical disabilities. Specially trained to respond to more than 40 different commands, Canine Companions provide increased independence as well as unconditional love to people with disabilities. Canine Companions is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities through the development of a human/canine partnership into what we call a Team (a Team consists of an individual with disabilities and a Canine Companion that have graduated from our program together).
Organization name
Canine Companions for Independence
other names
Canine Companions
1976
Category
Human Services
Organization Size
Large Organization
Address
P.O. Box 446Other
124 Rancho Del Oro DriveUS
CO, US