Help is a Four-Legged Word. Canine Companions for Independence

Help is a Four-Legged Word. Canine Companions for Independence

“Help is a four-legged word.” That’s how Canine Companions for Independence greets visitors to its website.

We were first introduced to this program by one of my co-workers who was a puppy raiser. We liked what she was doing so much that we contributed to the care of whichever puppy she was training at the time. And partly out of gratitude for being able to adopt one of her trainees who was released from the program and who didn’t get to graduate and serve.

CCI is an amazing organization which “enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships.

Based in Santa Rosa, CA, CCI is the largest non-profit provider of assistance dogs who serve and help physically and mobility challenged people get around and have productive lives.





Ways to help this worthwhile organization

Breeding program -- Either care for a male or a female. If one is a caretaker for a male, you should be prepared to take your dog to visit with a female dog when requested. If you’re  caring for a female, you will take care of the puppies and their mother until it’s time for the puppies to be raised by other volunteers.

Puppy raisers- Puppy raisers volunteer from all over the country, and participate in training programs with other puppy raisers. I remember seeing a class go to Sea World in Orlando for their first field trip. What a delight to see such well-trained dogs all in one place.

When the puppies are ready, then they are matched with their new “person” and together, they go through another round of intensive training.

Can’t do either? Then participate in fund-raising programs. Donate. Call attention to this organization. Like them on Facebook.Spread the word. Buy the book Love Heels -- Tales from Canine Companions for Independence.

Help is a Four-Legged Word. Canine Companions for Independence.