One of the requirements when clients are first matched with one of our dogs is to get the dog licensed in their city if their city requires it. When Bethany, who lives in Wisconsin, visited her City Hall for this task in Spring 2023, she was surprised to learn that only a few types of assistance dogs were eligible for free licensing in the state. Her new Seizure Assist Dog, Qantas, did not qualify. Frustrated and wanting to advocate for all with disabilities, Bethany asked what could be done. She was eventually advised to contact her state legislator. “And so,” …
News
Town Hall Covered Numerous Topics
On Thursday, April 18, we held an in-person Town Hall meeting with those who were able to attend. Building Plans Executive Director Jeff Johnson shared a tentative blueprint for our upcoming building project, stressing that the details of the plan are still very much evolving and will likely need to be scaled back. Some of the details shared about the potential new expansion plans included: The expansion will more than double the size of the current facility. Parking will be expanded with the addition. A new volunteer center is planned for the NW corner of the property, with a driveway …
Client Services Coordinator Jen Gravrok Authors Article for Disclo
One of our Client Services Coordinators, Jennifer Gravrok, Ph.D., recently shared her expertise through an article she wrote for Disclo. We encourage you to read how she “demystifies the use of assistance dogs, stressing the need for a balanced, reciprocal relationship between the dog and its handler, and cautioning that the commitment extends beyond the perceived benefits, requiring significant physical, mental, and emotional investment from the handler. Her work aims to align expectations with reality, aiding individuals in making informed decisions about acquiring an assistance dog.” In the article, Jen also references the book she published last year, “Understanding Assistance …
Partnership with Faribault Correctional Facility Resumes
On Thursday, March 14, Can Do Canines transported two assistance dogs in training, Crombie and Penny, to their temporary home at the Faribault Correctional Facility. A pair of selected inmate handlers will live with and provide 24/7 care to each of these two 1-year-old black Labrador Retrievers. Additionally, a Can Do Canines staff member will make weekly visits to the facility, providing training instruction to the inmate handlers, who will help the dogs learn obedience skills and basic assistance dog skills. Can Do Canines currently partners with seven other prisons in Minnesota and Wisconsin: Duluth, Rochester, Sandstone, and Waseca, Minn., …
We’re Excited to Share Our New TV Commercial
Just when some companies were preparing to air their multi-million-dollar advertisements during the Super Bowl, we were producing a professional TV commercial of our own (though not for the Super Bowl)! During the Fetching Ball program, we previewed the 30-second spot. Check it out here.
Facility Dog Program Becomes Official
At the January board meeting, our Board of Directors voted unanimously to make our Facility Dog pilot program permanent. A facility dog is trained to work at a designated location with a variety of people. Typically, this type of dog is placed in a hospital or a rehab center. Like our other dogs, Facility Dogs are task-trained, but the tasks they perform are done for someone other than their handler. We have placed several certified dogs in facilities over the years, most notably four in each of the last two years, as we explored this approach. We will limit the …
Things to Consider When Finding a Sitter for Your Dog
As a Dog Host with Can Do Canines, we have your sitting needs covered when you’re away on vacation, but finding a reliable and trustworthy pet sitter for your personal dogs can be a daunting task. Below are several factors to consider as you search for a sitter that is the right fit for your furry friend. Prior Experience Determine if the sitter has prior experience handling dogs and if they are comfortable with your dog’s breed and size. Some sitters may specialize in certain breeds or sizes, and it’s crucial to ensure they have the necessary skills to care …
Eau Claire Volunteer Hosts 100th Dog
Erin with Yoko, Rummi, and Tanner. (Photo courtesy of WQOW) Erin Whitfield, along with her husband and teenage child, just welcomed her 100th assistance dog in training into her home. Erin has been voluntarily raising and training Can Do Canines assistance dogs since her first one entered their home on January 17, 2018. Their 100th dog, Rummi, a yellow Lab mix, happens to be staying with them during her six-year anniversary of volunteering with the organization. Also currently staying with the Whitfields are two other Can Do Canines in training: Yoko and Tanner, both black Labs. Over the course of …
Virtual Conversation Recording Available
On Thursday, November 9, 2023, we hosted a virtual conversation. Anyone interested could join us to hear updates and news about our organization. Executive Director Jeff Johnson shared news about our new Whelping and Growth (WAG) Center, upcoming construction plans, the need for volunteers, and more. Director of Training Julianne Larsen announced that we have whelped our first litter of puppies at the WAG Center. Mom Sasha had seven beautiful babies! She also fielded questions about this new facility. Graduate Services Coordinator Elizabeth Reberk presented on the many ways she helps our graduates navigate situations that occur in their lives …
Thanksgiving Food Safety for Dogs
You know the look. Your dog gives you those sad eyes from the edge of the table when you are sitting down to eat a delicious meal. At Thanksgiving, especially, you can relate. Even we, as humans, might salivate thinking about the turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, ham, pumpkin pie, and all the other goodies that go along with the special day. We want to share the love with our loyal furry friends. However, what might seem like a kind treat could cause your dog serious problems. Our Veterinary Technician, Hannah, says, “I think a lot of people forget just how …
Contact Us
Location
