Volunteer Overcomes her Fear of Dogs and Reduces Students’ Anxieties

Becca Wicks first learned about Can Do Canines when another volunteer talked about it at Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC), where she works. Becca says, “I thought it would be a great opportunity for me to see if a dog would fit within my lifestyle and to also overcome my slight fear of them.” She’d had limited experiences with dogs previously, but admits, “Choosing to become a volunteer was one of the best choices I made.”

According to Puppy Program Manager, Lindy Luopa, Becca has been a “dedicated and reliable volunteer since 2022.” In these past three years, she has done both short- and long-term hosting and has also served as Butter’s breeder host. “I love the different opportunities to work with the dogs, as I have been able to see them in different parts of their training and growth,” says Becca. 

Butter not only secured a special place in Becca’s heart right away but also connected her with the Eau Claire volunteer pack. “That made all the difference,” she shares. “The pack here is filled with support and love for what we do. I have made so many new friends and gained even more confidence in training and working with the dogs.”

Becca actually first met the person who would become her pack leader, Erin Whitfield, by coincidence. She was walking Butter one day and Erin saw them and recognized Butter. Becca says, “She immediately got my attention and introduced herself. This chance meeting was the start of a wonderful friendship and all because I chose to volunteer with [Can Do Canines.]”

Becca’s newest host dog, Wylie, has become fast friends with both Butter and Becca’s cat, Milo, who is often found curled up with, and even grooming, Wylie. She is touched by the unconditional love that Butter and Wylie bring to her life and is reassured that meaningful moments are blended into Butter’s genes. “I love seeing Butter's puppies growing and thriving; knowing that they bring such joy to others is rewarding.”

The two older dogs elicit their share of smiles too. Butter and Wylie often accompany Becca to her teaching job at CVTC. She explains, “I have had students comment to me to ‘PLEASE continue to bring the girls’ to class. They do better on exams and feel less anxiety in the classroom. This is all just by the presence of Butter and Wylie. The positive impact of having a dog in the classroom is incredible.”

Becca understands that impact and knows it is part of a bigger picture. She often gets asked how she can give up the dogs she hosts. She explains to them that “That sadness is temporary when you see the joy and life-changing impact the dogs bring to those who welcome them home . . . What we do as volunteers is a part of that dog's journey to fulfilling their purpose.”

Lucky for us at Can Do Canines, Becca chose to volunteer with our dogs. She is just one of so many who are making an impact on our purpose.