Can Do Canines is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities by creating mutually beneficial partnerships with specially trained dogs. They envision a future in which every person who needs and wants an assistance dog can have one. These dogs bring greater freedom, independence and peace of mind to those they are partnered with. Can Do Canines trains for hearing assist dogs, as well as mobility, diabetes, autism and seizure assistance. While many assistance dogs are bred for this line of work, Can Do Canines procures over 1/3 of their dogs from local animal shelters. 

I was excited to meet a couple of their dogs last week, Mick and Cher. Mick is from a local shelter and is currently with a Puppy Raiser, learning the sights, sounds and smells he may encounter with his future partner. He’s wicked-smart, and a very calm, gentle boy. 

I also spent some time with pretty, little Cher. Cher was also a rescue dog, and is working with her human partner as a Diabetes Assist Dog. She’s also very smart and eager to please, and loves her tennis ball! Unfortunately, at just 5 years old, Cher has been diagnosed with Lymphoma, and she won’t be with us much longer.

With costs to train one assistance dog team topping $25,000, this great non-profit organization relies on the generosity of donors to keep moving forward. There are other opportunities to help by volunteering, being a puppy raiser, or even donating your dog or puppy. Check out their website and follow their Facebook page for updates on events, their puppies in training, and lots of happy graduating teams. These working dogs are everyday heroes, and this service that Can Do Canines is providing is pretty darn amazing.