We love when graduates share the latest and greatest ways their Can Do Canine has made a difference in their life, or maybe just brought some form of cheer! Check out these brief updates from some of our teams.
JULY 2024
Madison & Diabetes Assist Dog Willy
Willy is 9 and still alerting every day. He still, to this day, has yet to be wrong.
Kim & Mobility Assist Dog Axl
I am constantly amazed at Axl's ability to learn new commands for new tasks as my condition changes.
Sam & Facility Dog Inka
Inka has touched SO many patients with her work.
Katie and Mobility Assist Dog Vinnie
Just a few months ago I would have told you I would never have a garden again. With Vinnie by my side, I have been able to garden again. Even if it's not the way I imagined. While I was picking green beans today, I found myself struck with emotion as Vinnie was close by, keeping watch. I felt safe and genuinely happy having this little piece of my life back.
Full Submission:
Four years ago, my husband and I bought a hobby farm. It was an exciting time; we had livestock, added a big garden, and were doing everything. However, over the last few years, we have continued to scale back because I was unable to manage many things, and my husband naturally couldn't do it all. The garden was just one of many things that went away.
We just happened to be talking with my mother-in-law and a neighbor of hers when her neighbors told us their garden had been destroyed. This sparked a conversation, and we invited them to plant their garden at our place since it is just 5 minutes away. They accepted and planted a garden.
As we got to know each other over the last year, I began sharing more about my limitations. They came to understand that I couldn't garden anymore because my body couldn't handle it, and it just wasn't safe - the heat, getting up and down, etc.
So, at the beginning of this season, Marv came out and asked what I would plant in my own garden, and he planted a bigger garden with everything I would usually plant. He and his wife have tended to the garden and brought things up to the house knowing there are days it's just too hard for me to go down and pick.
However, there are days when I have been able to go down and pick produce. Vinnie comes with me and stays close as I pick what's ready.
Just a few months ago I would have told you I would never have a garden again. However, because of people helping people and with Vinnie by my side, I have been able to garden again. Even if it's not the way I imagined.
While I was picking green beans today, I found myself struck with emotion as Vinnie was close by, keeping watch. I felt safe and genuinely happy having this little piece of my life back.
Vinnie has expanded my life again in so many ways because I feel confident and safe.
Steve & Mobility Assist Dog Grady
Grady provides pressure therapy that is very comforting to Steve’s nerve pain when he cuddles up next to him.
Jayden & Autism Assist Dog Paxton
Paxton provided support to Jayden while in Sam's Club, and Jayden was having a meltdown because he wanted to leave when so many people were shopping in the store. Jayden was getting louder with his comments, and Mom told Jayden, "Paxton's ears are going to hurt when you are yelling, and he will feel sad if you are sad." Jayden told Mom, "I'm not trying to make him sad; I don't want him to be. Fine then, I will stop yelling. I won't hurt his ears then." Jayden agreed to stop yelling with the support of Paxton being visible in the store. He cued Jayden that his sounds were too loud, and therefore, Jayden chose to calm down.
Kevin & Skilled Home Companion Vanya
Vanya continues to bring joy and companionship to me. She knows I am her person and we have started going to our lake house and she knows no matter where we go, she needs to stick with me.
FEBRUARY 2024
Marina and Mobility Assist Dog Jazmin
Jazmin has made so much of a difference in my life in just over a year. From learning that she not only detects my migraines before I do, but also my flare-ups means that I have been able to be much more proactive in my own care than ever before. I have less than half of the bad days I used to have. I have done laundry one time without her when she had her skin problem, and it really put the difference she’s made into perspective. Doing laundry alone sent me straight into a severe flare-up, my first of this level since Jazmin has been in my life.
Nancy and Diabetes Assist Dog Eagle
He makes every day worthwhile. He is very attentive and effective at alerting me on my blood sugar levels.
Owen and Seizure Assist Dog Gus
Gus has been amazing and has been busy. Owen has been having seizures every 2 weeks for the last few months. On one occasion in November, Gus pressed the button (my husband and I were sleeping) and he jumped back on Owen’s bed and started to turn him to his side (it was a bad seizure). Then he proceeded to lick Owen’s face (this was new, but honestly, we found it helpful cause it was Gus' way of helping Owen through it).
Nolan and Autism Assist Dog Nitro
Nitro is great for Nolan, has eased his anxiety, helped keep him focused and safe in public, and helped Nolan with sensory input needs and communication skills.
Jensen and Mobility Assist Dog Stormie
I’m so happy to have Stormie in my life. My husband loves how Stormie adamantly watches me get ready for the day every morning. I always keep the bathroom door open in case anything were to happen to me, and Stormie sits on the rug in our kitchen just watching me the entire time, every single move I make. When my husband first noticed the behavior he thought it was because maybe I hadn’t fed her so he asked, but I had. She’s just always making sure she’s there if I need her. It’s truly something special.
Liv and Seizure Assist Dog Clark
On November 23rd, I had a grand mal (and drop) seizure. I was staying with my grandparents, and I didn't have Clark. My parents brought him up to the hospital where I was in Cloquet, Minnesota, about two hours away from our house. I was so drugged up I don't really remember but I've seen lots of pictures of Clark cuddled up next to me on the gurney. And in the 1.5 weeks since the seizure, he has been glued to me even more than normal. He has been there to help all of it and the mental/emotional toll of it.
JULY 2023
Megan and Mobility-Hearing Assist Dog Zoe
Zoe has been a lifesaver for our family. My parents can leave me at home with Zoe and feel comfortable about doing that. She has also helped me in emotional ways, and I have more peace being by myself too.
Brady and Diabetes Assist Dog Olli
Olli has picked up some seriously deadly lows within the past two weeks that I was unable to detect. He continues to amaze me every day!
Kristen and Hearing Assist Dog Shandi
I love Shandi's company and the independence that she helps provide me. She is my "ears." She is always ready to work and alerts me to the sounds that I miss. With her always by my side, I feel safer and less anxious. I have gained more confidence in being able to go places on my own with her by my side. She is my best friend. I am so grateful to Can Do Canines, and all the others who made Shandi possible, for giving me this huge blessing in my life!
Emme and Mobility Assist Dog Irwin
As I was walking with Irwin, he stopped out of nowhere. I felt okay, but decided to check my heart rate. It was completely out of my usual range, but because we caught it soon enough, I was able to complete the walk!
Remy and Autism Assist Dog Candy
Candy brings joy to our family. She is a lover and is very social. It's been a blessing to have her be a playmate for my son. She has also helped in his communication and given him some autonomy in his life. She is also trained very well and we are thankful for that. - Remy’s mom, Nichole
Ryan and Seizure Assist Dog Gallagher
Gallagher has helped a ton since he's become part of my family. We can tell when I'm going to have a bad day based on how he acts towards me, and due to that, I've been able to go out and teach a class about emergency medicine. This has helped me feel a part of society again after being isolated for so long due to not knowing if I was going to have seizures that day.
Drake and Mobility Assist Dog Flynn
Drake is really becoming super independent ever since Flynn entered our home over two years ago! So very proud of the duo!
Meghan and Mobility Assist Dog Dotty
When my heart rate gets over 100, Dotty will nudge my thigh. This indicates I need to sit down. When I tell her to snuggle, she will just lay on top of me to lower my heart rate.
Martin and Diabetes Assist Dog Blaze
Since me and Blaze started our relationship, I have not had a single Hypo, and as someone who had multiples each week and through the night, this has changed my life.
MARCH 2023
Sophia and Autism Assist Dog Rylee
We can't imagine Sophia's life limitations without Rylee. Rylee has allowed her to grow in ways none thought was possible. Sophia is now considering college and job placement- something that was not even on the radar.
Kyle and Mobility Assist Dog Rio
I have been out in public more than I've ever been without him. I have fallen and gotten up on my own because of him. In the past 5 years, Rio has helped me through an ankle that was broken in three places. He has been with me during depression, anxiety, fear, and joy. He has been with me in new environments, road trips, and new adventures. He has truly changed my life for the better. And I would be really lost without him.
Lisa and Hearing Assist Dog Cleo
Cleo is wonderful, and I am far beyond thankful for the wonderful training that Can Do Canines did. She has been a life-saver since I had my leg amputated and was diagnosed with MS. In addition, this past year, I experienced TIAs [transient ischemic attacks, temporary periods of symptoms similar to those of a stroke], and she has stepped up once again to provide additional support. I could not love her more.
Jessica and Mobility Assist Dog Kimba
Kimba makes my life much more enjoyable. She makes life easier for me and happier. She has saved my life twice. She is my constant companion and best friend. I love playing with her and cuddling with her especially when I'm not feeling good. She knows when I'm not and lays next to me with her head on me.
Deanna and Diabetes Assist Dog Gracie
Gracie and I are having a great time going to agility, hiking, and playing hide and seek with friends. Gracie has made my life so much better by knowing when I am alone I have someone who will bring me glucose tabs, or a phone if my blood sugar gets too low. Best part about Gracie is that she can be just as stubborn as me when my blood sugar gets low. 🙂
Hannah and Mobility Assist Dog Newton
Twice, Newton alerted hospital staff that Hannah’s fistula was bleeding. This is extremely dangerous, as the person can bleed out within minutes. One instance was in a procedure room; the second was in the hospital lobby, while they were waiting for a ride. Both times, Newton got up and barked at staff until he got their attention. While Newton was not specifically trained for this situation, he likely saved Hannah’s life. (Written by Hannah’s dad, Alex)
Ann and Hearing Assist Dog Dixie
Dixie and I as "older ladies" are so compatible and enjoy loving one another as one does with such a smart, tuned in and willing service dog. She is ever alert and waiting for "what is next" and "what are we going to do" and "what do you want me to do?" I see her slowing down some but she remains energetic. She is not only my ears but my heart!
DECEMBER 2022
Gail and Mobility Assist Dog Vintage
I don’t know what I would have done without Vintage in my life. He has been extremely helpful while giving me the confidence I’ve never had. He has probably saved me from dozens and dozens of falls.
Tom and Diabetes Assist Dog Freida
Freida has been an amazing partner. I could never have even dreamed up a better buddy. She has saved my life and brought so much joy into the world. She is an amazing animal and I have been privileged to have her in my life.
Logan and Autism Assist Dog Gypsy
Logan and Gypsy are an amazing team! She enriches his life daily just by being with him. The two of them have such a bond after all these years, and it's really just been beautiful to see. She is an awesome part of our family that is loved by everyone! (Written by Logan’s dad, Aaron)
Amy and Mobility Assist Dog Ezra
Ezra is an incredible partner. We are approaching our 3-year anniversary this January, and he has improved my life every day since we were matched. He not only completes many tasks that make my life easier, but he also makes my life happier by just being sweet and goofy. He is very attentive to me and is always ready to help. He makes me feel more confident to go places independently. He comes with me to work at a pediatric clinic and all of the kids love waving to him and saying hi/bye when they enter/leave my clinic room.
Roni and Mobility Assist Dog Eunice
She has the sweetest disposition, she is right there to pick up anything I drop. A couple of days ago, my bed pillow fell on the floor, and though it was a struggle, she did end up giving it to me. She chooses to chase the sun around in our house, laying on the floor in whatever room it's shining in. But as soon as she hears me drop something or I say her name she comes running to help me. If I tell her to clean up she drops it in the waste basket or if I give her the command to give it, she drops it in my hand. Elizabeth did such a good job of training her and me.
Kristi and Mobility Assist Dog Huxley
[Although 10-year-old] Huxley has had a few health issues this year, he’s still really enjoying working and is the first one to the door when I’m getting ready to leave and is instantly ready to pick something up if I drop it.
AUGUST 2022
Tammy & Mobility Assist Dog Magnum
He stopped the tremors in my feet simply by laying his head on my legs. By just being with me daily and picking up after me when I drop things or getting things I can't reach, he reduces my anxiety. He is my everything.
Bobb & Mobility Assist Dog Herbie
Herbie is coming up on 11 years old and he is still as energetic and happy to do his job as ever. Also, the past couple of years has become more difficult for me, thanks to my MS. Not only has Herbie continued to do his job well, but he has done more tasks that I’d not needed him to do before.
Terri & Seizure Assist Dog Peaches
We put on the music from Guardians of the Galaxy and we dance together!
Amy & Mobility Assist Dog Trackr
My surgeon has said more than once that if I did not have him he does not know where I would be today.
Wendy & Hearing Assist Dog Yukon (Nicknamed "Yuki")
I got Yuki as a Hearing Assist Dog, but with physical disabilities, I now also use her to assist with mobility tasks, like picking up things, opening drawers, etc. In fact, she is so excited about drawers, that she actually tries to shut drawers at other people's homes and the vet (when she is not working). [Can Do Canines'] approach of training dogs to do different things has been a significant asset and gave me assistance in ways I couldn't predict when I got her.
Bella & Mobility Assist Dog Blaine
Blaine and I left home and went to Arizona State University together! I wouldn’t have been able to do it without her.
JUNE 2022
Lori & Mobility Assist Dog Frisco
Frisco has always been amazing. But most recently I had fallen and had broken my wrist. I didn't have a cell phone by me and if I would have screamed nobody was gonna hear me. So what did I do? I called for Frisco. I said Frisco, “Get help,” and that's exactly what he did. He ran over to the hook that has an emergency button hung on it. He grabbed it, he pulled it off the hook and brought it right to me. I was able to hit the button and call an ambulance. Frisco is my Can Do Hero.
Roger & Mobility Assist Dog Whitney
For whatever reason when I retire at night, Whitney likes to take one of my socks for a walk around the house; takes it to bed and brings it back to me in the morning.
Amy & Mobility Assist Dog Mosby
Something I was watching on TV triggered an episode of severe and unexpected anxiety, and I was struggling to calm myself. Mosby (without prompting) rose from where he'd been laying, jumped into my lap in the recliner, laid down, and pressed his full body weight and warmth on me like a blanket until my heart rate and breathing slowed again. He stayed with me in the chair until the anxiety passed. He was not trained to do that to my knowledge, but he knew exactly what I needed. I was grateful to the point of tears.
Julie & Hearing Assist Dog Skye
Skye provided assurance and security for a few nights last January when my husband was isolating with COVID in the basement. She woke me without fail when my alarm went off during the nights so I could get up to check on him. I also slept peacefully knowing that if there were any fire or carbon monoxide alarm, midnight phone call or unwanted intruder, she would alert me to those sounds too. Thank you, Skye, and Can Do Canines!
Jeremy & Mobility Assist Dog Pria
Pria is focused on every move I make and so in tune with my daily routines. In the year I've had her, I haven't had to go to my neighbors once to have them get me something I've dropped. Before Pria, I'd regularly have to do that. I no longer worry about dropping things anymore and therefore feel so much more independent than I did before her!
Maureen & Mobility Assist Dog Walter
I dropped a measuring spoon the other day and called Walter to retrieve it which he did. I'm totally blind. Walter was staying near me not running back to his favorite spot watching out the front door after he picked it up then started nudging me with his nose. I put out my hand and he handed me a second measuring spoon, which I didn't realize was on the floor. He knows what needs to be picked up!
Kara & Mobility Assist Dog Fabian
Just a few days ago I sustained an injury related to my illness and am wheelchair bound for 8-12 weeks. I haven’t needed to use my wheelchair much until now and [Fabian] doesn’t miss a beat. He’s used to my walker but he transitioned easily with the wheelchair and has been a godsend while the kids are at school. Normally an injury like this would have me panicked and with Fabian I don’t feel that. I feel confident in his skills and know that this time will fly and I don’t have to fret when this pops up again. We can tackle these setbacks and Fabian will be with me every step of the way til I’m back to my walker!
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