By Tracy Will – Katie was originally drawn to Can Do Canines as a way to train her own dog, Pewter, as an assistance dog. Katie knew she needed help because, among a range of medical issues, multiple sclerosis was causing her serious balance and mobility problems. During the application process, an accident tragically cut short Pewter’s life, and Katie and her family were devastated. Katie’s doctor encouraged her to continue her process with Can Do Canines, and she did so, believing the waiting process for a dog would give her time to grieve and heal. As soon as she …
Archives for July 2024
Stephanie’s 32-Year Journey Maintains Record for Can Do Canines Hearing Assist Dogs
As Stephanie opens up her assistance dog scrapbook, the year written on page 1 is 1993. That’s when Stephanie first began her relationship with Can Do Canines—an organization she says, “is very close to my heart.” Stephanie was about 40 years old at the time and was struggling with degenerative hearing loss. Her audiologist suggested what was then called The Hearing Dog Program of Minnesota (as we only provided hearing dogs at that time), and she remembers, “I think the application was just a few lines on the back of a brochure.” The application fee then: $10. Stephanie was looking …
Once Active Service Member is Now Active Service Dog Advocate
Kim served in the Army for 44 years. While much of that time was in the Reserves, a combined 10 years was in active duty, including being a part of Special Operations in the Vietnam War. Kim came out of that experience with long-term effects. He says, “Due to my exposure to Agent Orange, I’ve had a cerebral hemorrhage and two strokes. I’ve had to have surgery on my neck and spine due to other injuries. And so, it limits me bending over and moving. I have a hand that doesn’t work too well due to the strokes. My mobility …
Kristi’s Role Takes Multiple Forms
A few years ago, Kristi DeRop was watching a morning news program when a story about Can Do Canines came on, highlighting the need for volunteer puppy raisers. She remembers thinking, “WOW … I can play with puppies AND help others, where do I sign up?” We’re glad Kristi did sign up because since then, she has signed up to help in numerous, repeated ways. Kristi with Can Do Canine Gouda She and her husband eased in by hosting dogs for prison breaks from the Waseca prison, which, at that time, involved a Thursday through Monday morning commitment. Meeting several of …
Run with Can Do Canines Twin Cities 10-Mile Race Team on October 6, 2024
Are you someone who loves the dual thrill of racing and giving back to the community? Then it’s time to lace up those running shoes and gear up for a cause with paws. Every step you take is a step toward helping Can Do Canines train more assistance dogs and match them with individuals who need them. The end of your race marks the beginning of an incredible journey for a person and their new canine partner. Why race with us? A Cause That Cares By joining our team, you’re not just embarking on a 10-mile journey; you’re running to …