Free helping dogs

Can Do Canines announces that there is currently less waiting time than normal for clients who need one of the following types of assistance dogs: Mobility Assist Dog, Hearing Assist Dog, Diabetes Assist Dog, and Seizure Assist Dog. Each of these types of dogs, along with Autism Assist Dogs, are provided free of charge to accepted applicants. Of the five types of assistance dogs Can Do Canines trains, Autism Assist Dogs (provided to children, ages 4-12) consistently have the longest waiting list. Executive Director Jeff Johnson explains that it is difficult to control the different waiting lists, because Can Do Canines intentionally allows the dogs to choose their own career type, if any. Approximately 30% of dogs who begin in the program do not end up being placed with a client. Many of the dogs are “career changed” to become a family pet instead, due to identified allergies or other health concerns. For other dogs, the life of an assistance dog is just not their calling. Johnson states, “We want our dogs to love what they do." He added, “Our mission statement talks of a mutually beneficial partnership between a person and a dog,” says Johnson. “And so while this is really important that we know what can help our client, it's also really important to us that this enhances the dog's life.” Thanks to the generosity of donors, all Can Do Canines assistance dogs are provided at no cost to clients. For more information about Can Do Canines or to apply for an assistance dog, visit can-do-canines.org. (Photo submitted)