Spring 2016 - Canine Companions for Independence

The Companion
Spring 2016, issue twenty-three
Southwest Region
“Who needs therapy
when you have Mabel?”
Read Mabel’s story
PAGE 3
Stop Service Dog Fraud
PAGE 2
Regional News
PAGES 7 TO 10
Texas Center Opens
Sparrow's Heart Photography
PAGE 4
CEO Insights
We’re pleased with another banner year at
helped us realize just how prevalent this
under control at all times and well behaved.
Canine Companions in 2015, placing a record
abuse is. 77% of graduates surveyed said
Any assistance dog displaying aggressive
309 assistance dogs. In 40 years, we’ve placed
they had an encounter with a fraudulent or
behavior towards other dogs or people is not
nearly 5,000 assistance dogs and over 2,000
out of control service dog. Over a quarter of
only ill suited for a role as an assistance dog,
of those dogs are actively working. That
our graduates had 10 or more encounters,
but it is within the business’ rights to ask them
means more Canine Companions teams than
dramatically illustrating that this is an all
to leave.
ever are out and about in their communities.
too common occurrence in places where
Canine Companions has been a leader in
We’ve seen the recognition of the
pet, emotional support or therapy dogs are
bringing awareness to this issue for the last
benefits of assistance dogs grow over the
not allowed. In addition, over half of our
several years through our Stop Service Dog
years too. Unfortunately the abuse of public
graduates who had an encounter had their
Fraud Campaign (cci.org/stopfraud), but our
access, granted through the Americans with
Canine Companions dog bitten, snapped at
experience shows us that there is still a lot
Disabilities Act (ADA) and similar laws, has
or distracted from their work by the fake or
to do. As a result, Canine Companions will
also grown substantially.
uncontrolled service dog.
continue to work with and educate our leg-
Regrettably, some thoughtless people
For a dog to have access into public places
islators and public officials in 2016 to ensure
misrepresent their pets as service dogs so
such as grocery stores or restaurants, it must
that our graduates and all assistance dog
they don’t have to leave them at home or
be individually trained to perform a task to help
users can enjoy the full benefits that working
with pet-sitters. We recently conducted
with their human partner’s specific disability. A
dogs can provide.
a survey of our graduates regarding their
doctor’s note is not enough, and a ‘certificate’
experiences with fraudulent, questionable
or ‘ID card’ ordered on the internet is certainly
or uncontrolled service dogs.
not enough. Additionally, the ADA requires
The feedback provided by our graduates
77%
Canine Companions graduates
encountered a fake or
uncontrolled service dog.
2
that service dogs in public places must be
25%
Had 10 or more encounters with
fake or uncontrolled service dogs.
Paul Mundell, CEO
53%
A fake or uncontrolled service
dog has snapped at, bitten
or distracted their Canine
Companions dog. CANINE COMPANIONS FOR INDEPENDENCE®
Images courtesy of Sparrow’s Heart Photography
Left: Mabel with her handler, and founder
of the Phoenix Center, Sarah.
Above: Mabel with one of the young
clients of the Phoenix Center.
Help us
place more dogs
free of charge at
cci.org/donate or
return the enclosed
envelope.
Inspiring Hope, Health and Healing
“Over 80% of the kids we serve are victims
also a favorite during play therapy where the
of child abuse or neglect,” says Facility Dog
kids love to dress her up and include her in
Mabel’s handler, Sarah, who is the founder
their sessions.
of the Phoenix Center in Texas. “Mabel has
Assistance dogs also help create a calm-
session now and is very nurturing with her.”
Another child Mabel has helped is an
11-year-old who is on the autism spectrum.
“We’ve had Mabel do a ‘crash’ command,
had countless, powerful interactions with the
ing and regulating environment that assists
which gave Mabel permission to lay and put
kids we serve. She is happiest when she is
children in overcoming the effects of trauma.
her full weight across the boy’s lap, when
working. Mabel naturally wants to connect
One little 7-year-old boy that Mabel helps
he was upset and unregulated. This created
and be with the kids as much as possible.
was born to a parent with substance abuse
sensory input, and weighted pressure, which
She is a special girl.”
challenges, and has had a lot of challenges in
helped calm and ground him,” explains Sarah.
The Phoenix Center is a non-profit that
school. “He ends up in the principal’s office
“His breathing changed and he even said,
provides free and affordable mental health
nearly every day and he doesn’t have any
‘Mabel is so peaceful and relaxing. I feel so
care for children and families in need. Much
friends. He gets a lot of negative attention,”
much better and calm.’”
of the support Mabel provides occurs during
says Sarah. “Having positive interactions and
Already in her short time at the Phoenix
therapy sessions, whether she is providing
unconditional love from Mabel is incredibly
Center, Mabel has become a favorite among
pressure and sensory input, or encouraging
therapeutic for him. He used to be destruc-
clients, staff and is even a little bit of a celeb-
communication and providing comfort.
tive and very unregulated, even at the
rity in their small town. “Mabel has already
Animal-assisted therapy has been shown
Phoenix Center. He’d often knock everything
had transformative interactions with the
to improve symptoms of post-traumatic
off the shelves in the play therapy room. With
kids,” says Sarah. “She has been an invaluable
stress disorder by helping children regulate
Mabel in the room, he is a different kid. He
member of the team. I remember one of our
stress arousal systems, often referred to as
is protective and loving towards her, and
teens telling me, ‘Who needs therapy when
the fight, flight or freeze response. Mabel is
calm and regulated. He wants Mabel in every
you have Mabel?’”
THE COMPANION SPRING 2016
3
Chairman’s Address
refine the dogs’ skills, teach them advanced
One organization in particular really
commands and then carefully match them
stood out in 2015 as a major contributor to
with people in need. The end result: Lives are
the mission and growth of Canine Compan-
changed forever.
ions: Baylor Scott & White Health (BSWH).
Even that doesn’t begin to cover all
Last year, BSWH helped us officially open
of the people involved in graduating 309
the sixth Canine Companions training center
assistance dogs and it doesn’t begin to
in Texas. This new training center, and the
tell the story of all the lives that will be
recruitment of more trainers and volunteer
touched by these amazing canines. The
puppy raisers, will allow Canine Companions
individuals who receive service, hearing
to place up to 60 additional teams each year.
But it’s even more significant than you might
and skilled companion dogs and their
Additionally, BSWH has helped raise funds,
realize at first glance. That is the number of
families, friends, co-workers, schoolmates
increase awareness, recruit puppy raisers
assistance dogs Canine Companions placed
and others will all benefit. Facility dogs
and fund the new Canine Early Development
in 2015. Behind that number are the hundreds
will work in hospitals, rehab facilities, VA
Center in Santa Rosa, California to further
of people who were involved in raising and
centers, court systems, etc. It's no wonder
support our breeder caretakers. We hope to
training these dogs.
that in 2015, thousands of people attended
be able to duplicate this positive experience
Canine Companions graduation ceremo-
with other healthcare systems around the
nies across the country.
country.
309. That is a significant number.
It starts with staff that carefully match two
dogs for breeding based on their desirable
traits as working dogs. Then come volunteer
We couldn’t do it without all of our volun-
As we look forward to 2016 and beyond,
breeder caretakers who care for the parent
teers and staff. And we definitely couldn’t do
I hope you will continue to support Canine
dogs and raise and socialize the puppies for
it without our donors and corporate partners
Companions, because we can’t do it without
their first eight weeks. Next it takes hundreds
who help fund this process so Canine Com-
you!
of puppy raisers to raise these puppies for
panions can provide each dog free of charge
the next year and a half. At about 18 months,
to an individual or organization in need of
professional Canine Companions instructors
one.
John Miller, National Board Chair
➊ Captain Michael Caspers with Service
Dog Vincent, one of the first teams to
graduate at the new Canine Companions
Baylor Scott & White Health Kinkeade
Campus. ➋ Caspers and Service Dog
Vincent during a special halftime show at
the Dallas Cowboys game. ➌ Cowboys’
Roger Staubach and Chad Hennings
present Casper's service dog during
the half-time show, emceed by Tom
Brokaw. ➍ The front of the new South
Central Training Center. ➎ Jan ReesJones and husband Trevor Rees-Jones in
front of the new canine center that their
foundation helped fund.
➊
4
➋
➍
➌
➎
CANINE COMPANIONS FOR INDEPENDENCE®
Give Monthly
cci.org/help
Which is your favorite —
Yellow Lab? Golden Retriever? Black Lab?
“With the automatic withdrawal and payment process, being a Monthly Miracle Maker
is simple,” explains Greg Fox, whose son
received a Canine Companions assistance
dog free of charge. “I especially appreciated
cci.org/AdoptADog
the percentage of funding that goes directly
A symbolic adoption makes a great gift for
one-page fact sheet full of information about
to training and supporting the dogs and
birthdays, graduations or any special occa-
how your gift supports Canine Companions
wanted to help. My son and his dog’s work
sion. Adopt an assistance dog in training
assistance dogs in training. You can easily
as a team is in the early stages, but we are
for yourself or a friend and help develop a
download these items on the confirmation
already seeing amazing benefits for my son
world-class assistance dog for someone with
page immediately after completing your
and his independence and development.”
a disability.
donation. Packages start at only $40, and
Nancy, a four-time Canine Companions
higher levels offer additional incentives. Visit
graduate, says, “I know I can never repay
cci.org/AdoptADog.
Canine Companions for what they have
Every symbolic adoption package comes
with a specially designed certificate you
can personalize and proudly display, and a
given me. Giving monthly just makes sense!
It makes sense for the organization and for
the donors. It’s a huge benefit for Canine
Companions to have a steady flow of money
coming in all year long.”
Monthly Miracle Makers provide Canine
Companions with a dependable and steady
stream of income — and it’s hassle free!
From $15 to $150 or more, you can select
how much is automatically transferred from
your checking account or charged to your
credit card. Sign up for the Monthly Miracle
Maker program, or learn about other giving
Actor Scott Foley Lends His Voice
Actor Scott Foley, star of ABC’s hit drama
“It’s such an amazing non-profit and I’m
series Scandal, has a new best friend named
happy to help increase awareness of Canine
Esther. Esther is an adorable Canine Com-
Companions,” Foley told CBS News in a
panions puppy who has teamed with Scott
recent interview. His ambassadorship will
to spread the word about volunteer puppy
help raise awareness for Canine Compan-
raising.
ions, including its puppy raising program.
In addition to lending his voice to
Scott and Esther are looking for ded-
Canine Companions’ new puppy raising
icated volunteers who are willing to turn
public service announcement (PSA), Scott
a fuzzy fur ball into a well-socialized and
Foley is a celebrity ambassador for Canine
obedient adolescent Canine Companions
Companions.
puppy. Learn more at cci.org/puppyraising.
options, at cci.org/help.
Above: Images from the new puppy raising PSA that Scott Foley narrates.
THE COMPANION SPRING 2016
5
➊
➋
Granddaughter Gives Back
Anna was in third grade when she attended
Team Training with her grandpa as he received
a service dog from Canine Companions. “I
this way I can work with both.”
time,” explains Anna.
Today she is raising her fourth puppy for
Canine Companions.
She has also become a great volunteer
and advocate for Canine Companions by
witnessed the changes that took place in the
Anna does the bulk of the work, under her
participating in her local DogFest Walk ‘n
lives of people who received assistance dogs
parent's supervision, when it comes to raising
Roll™, sharing the mission through her 4-H
and I was amazed!” Anna recalls.
the puppies. She attends puppy classes and
program and donating proceeds from hand-
Even at that young age, Anna knew
makes sure the dogs have plenty of oppor-
made scarves she sells.
right then and there that she wanted to help
tunities for socialization. Although it can be
“I love my Canine Companions family
more people like her grandpa. “I decided with
difficult to return the puppies, she knows they
and feel blessed to be part of such a
the help of my family that raising a Canine
may go on to enhance someone’s life.
wonderful and life-changing organization,"
Companions puppy was something I really
“I like knowing that I am doing a good
wanted to do! I love animals and people and
thing and changing people’s lives at the same
Anna says. "Like they say, ‘Raise a puppy,
change a life!’”
➊ Anna with her family when turning in one of the puppies they raised for professional training. ➋ Anna’s grandfather, Mel with Service Dog Baila.
6
CANINE COMPANIONS FOR INDEPENDENCE®
Barbara’s Director’s Chair
I want to begin by extending a heartfelt thank you to each of you for your contributions to
Canine Companions in 2015. We had a wonderful year in our Southwest Region as together
we celebrated the 40th anniversary of our organization. It was so nice to meet many of you
as I traveled to different events across the region. I hope to have the opportunity to meet
with more of you in the near future and personally thank you for your efforts and support.
You have changed the lives of countless numbers of people with disabilities because of your
commitment and dedication!
This past year was highlighted with many significant accomplishments for Canine ComPhoto Credit Ken Sergi Photography
panions including a record-breaking 309 placements, with 58 trained here in the Southwest
Region. Regionally, we placed 148 puppies in volunteers’ homes and averaged 270 active
puppy raisers. Our incredible success can be attributed to the strength of our team and the
commitment of our volunteers, donors, partners and staff. You have truly made a difference
and together we advanced our mission across the region and the country.
Now spring is in the air with its longer, warmer days and signs of renewal and growth. It
is a time of rejuvenation and new beginnings. We are already off to a terrific start in 2016 and
are excited by the many great new opportunities that lie ahead. We have a new Southwest
Region board president, Kim Haydel, and vice president, Sondra Thiederman, and we look
“I take walks in the neighborhood,
get out with family and friends,
and spend rewarding time at
forward to their leadership and vision. See page 10 to learn more about Kim. We also thank
Chris Conlin for his service as board president for the last two years and his enthusiastic
commitment to Canine Companions.
We have already completed our first graduation of the year and eight new teams are now
home all knowing that I have my
on their journey to independence. Our graduates are the reason we give our time, talents and
service dog to not only comfort
treasures. They remind us why we are all a part of the Canine Companions for Independence
me, but to provide support
community and inspire us to work tirelessly to achieve our awesome mission.
that gives me enjoyment and
independence. Your generosity
with your donations made this all
possible. Thank you so much for
your kind, caring and thoughtful
contributions to an organization
that provides so much love and
joy to others. You are loved.”
—John with Service Dog Paris IV
Your investment in Canine Companions helped us provide these exceptional dogs to our
graduates free of charge.
Many fabulous events are on the 2016 schedule and they all provide an excellent opportunity to get involved and support Canine Companions. Our national signature event, DogFest
Walk ‘n Roll,™ will again take place in four cities. Learn more on page 11 or visit cci.org/DogFest.
In addition, we will have golf, galas, fashion shows and much, much more! See page nine for
upcoming event dates and locations.
I look forward to working with each and every one of you this year as we continue to
transform lives!
Warmest regards,
Barbara Barrow
Southwest Region Executive Director
Southwest Region Board of Directors
Kim Haydel
President
Bill Bauce
Jack Peluso
Sondra Thiederman, PhD
Vice President
Robert Cartin, DVM
Stephanie Small, LLC
Tim Gackstetter
Bob Street
Glen Gregos
Mark Ward
Leslie Hennessy, PhD
Lance Weir
Tom Hollenstein
Margaret “Pegge” Wilson
Col. Chris Conlin (USMC Ret.)
Past President
Paul Abramowitz
Joe Moeller
THE COMPANION SPRING 2016
SOUTHWEST REGION
7
Service Members and Service
Dogs Shine at The RitzCarlton, Laguna Niguel
For the third year, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel honored the
service and sacrifice made by our nation’s men and women in uniform with a donation to support The Wounded Veterans Initiative™
of Canine Companions for Independence. General Manager Bruce
Brainerd presented a check for $230,000 to Canine Companions,
which was a record-breaking donation thanks to monthly Yappy Hour
events and The Diamond Ball, all held at the stunning seaside resort.
Community Rallies Around
DogFest San Diego
“Because of the generosity of so many, we are able to further
our mission to raise funds for animal charities that change lives,” said
Brainerd. “On behalf of The Diamond Ball committee and the ladies
and gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, we are sincerely
thankful of everyone’s support to make a difference in our community
DogFest Walk 'n Roll San Diego was the second largest DogFest in
and the lives of our veterans.”
the country in 2015 out of 30 nationwide, raising just shy of $180,000.
Its success was thanks to generous sponsors and donors as well as
dedicated individual fundraisers. Donations even included a $10,000
match, dubbed Sherwood’s Make a Difference Challenge.
John Terhorst, a Canine Companions service dog recipient, was
the top individual fundraiser with donations totaling nearly $13,000!
“My circle of friends and extended family have followed my journey
with my disability, and it has been evident to them what a blessing
Service Dog Yan and Canine Companions have been for me,” John
explains of the outpouring of generosity.
Of course, DogFest could not happen without the efforts of
dedicated volunteers. Southwest Region Board Vice President Sondra
➊ U.S. Army Major Yancy Baer and Service Dog Verbena were
a featured speaker at The Diamond Ball. “Beanz,” as she is
affectionately called, provides practical and emotional benefits
to Major Baer, who is an amputee. She also spreads cheer among
patients and staff at Major Baer’s workplace, the Center for the
Intrepid. ➋ Bruce Brainerd, general manager of The Ritz-Carlton,
Laguna Niguel, hosted The Diamond Ball with released dog Brock
II by his side. ➌ Louisiana Army National Guard veteran Jeffrey
Adams shared his story at The Diamond Ball. After losing his leg
while serving in Iraq, Adams was partnered with Service Dog
Sharif. ➍ Kelly Bussio with Service Dog Tadaki made the trip from
Utah to attend the fabulous event. She is pictured with volunteers
Eileen Sever and Mia Crompton.
Thiederman led the exceptional event committee and nearly 200
volunteers made sure the day ran smoothly. Wags of appreciation
for all involved!
Above: The DogFest San Diego event committee included
(from left to right) Patti Burford, Patti Roebuck, Jann de la Cruz,
Tina Swim, Geno Spatafore, Cindy Lane, Jane Walstrom, Emily
Kjellson, Lori Niitani, Lexi Padilla, Sondra Thiederman and Nancy
Gackstetter.
Photo by Tom Perez
➊
John and Service Dog Yan in the middle of the crowd of
DogFest San Diego walkers, but they stood out in a big way
with their fundraising efforts!
8
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SOUTHWEST REGION
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CANINE COMPANIONS FOR INDEPENDENCE®
Photos courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
➋
All photos are by Jared Cowan Photography
➋
➊
HAUTE DOG
Heats Up
The fourth annual HAUTE DOG | LA in
October raised over $100,000 for Canine
Companions, far surpassing the tally
of previous years. Title sponsor Disney
VoluntEARS was instrumental to the event’s
success, as was the support of Canine
Companions National Board Member Mel
Gottlieb. Mel donated a matching gift of
$25,000 that evening and the inspired
crowd took on the challenge to fund not
one, but two new human-canine teams in
Photo by Donna Curry
Los Angeles!
➌
➍
➊ (From left to right) Stacey Whitmore with Princess of Beverly Hills, actress Julie
Brown, actor Scott Foley, singer Fred Schneider and NBC4’s Holly Hannula were judges
in the doggie runway fashion show. ➋ Dr. McCoy Moretz, Jo Lasorda and Cathleen
Smith Bresciani enjoy the red carpet at HAUTE DOG | LA. A Canine Companions puppy
named in honor of Jo and Tommy Lasorda’s late son walked the runway. Cathleen was
instrumental in helping to plan the event, assisting with publicity, design, the creation
of original artwork, securing judges to participate and more. ➌ Host Kate Luhr kept the
audience laughing. Service team Ron Young and Caelan charmed business owners for
auction items and greeted event attendees with big smiles. ➍ Berry Bland’s adorable
dog Peach took the prize for silliest costume.
Upcoming Events
For more information, please visit cci.org/swevents.
Words of
Encouragement
Even if we do not know personally, we can
all imagine how difficult it is for volunteer
puppy raisers to say goodbye to the puppies
when they begin professional training. To
Imagine Independence
DogFest Walk ‘n Roll
April 14 in Ogden, UT
Fall 2016, date TBD in Denver, CO
Graduation
DogFest Walk ‘n Roll
May 13 in Oceanside, CA
September 10 in Farmington, UT
Enchanted Canines Golf Classic
Dog Days of Summer Golf Classic
June 24 in Albuquerque, NM
September 23 in Scottsdale, AZ
Canine Companions Invitational Golf
Tournament
HAUTE DOG | LA
July 22 in Carlsbad, CA
commemorate the event, some volunteers
Graduation
create heartfelt messages in sidewalk chalk
August 12 in Oceanside, CA
near the drop-off point in support of the
Fall 2016, date TBD in Los Angeles, CA
DogFest Walk ‘n Roll
October 29 in San Diego, CA
Graduation
November 4 in Oceanside, CA
puppy they raised. Feel the love!
THE COMPANION SPRING 2016
SOUTHWEST REGION
9
Volunteer Extraordinaire
Sharon Higgins, of Arizona, was the 2015 Geneva Davis Award winner. The Geneva Davis
Photo courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Award is an annual, peer-nominated award to recognize leadership in individuals who have
been ambassadors of Canine Companions. Sharon is raising her ninth puppy for Canine
Companions. She helps with the onboarding of new volunteer puppy raisers and conducts
home visits. Sharon also helps engage new puppy raisers in Canine Companions outreach
activities. On top of that, she is co-chair of DogFest Phoenix, which raised over $60,000 last
year. Our hats are off to this outstanding volunteer!
Left: Volunteers Jennifer Keller, Sharon Higgins and Bonnie Sposato with Canine
Companions puppy Morey together enjoyed The Diamond Ball. Sharon Higgins was
recognized as the 2015 Geneva Davis Award winner at the event.
Photo courtesy of Christine Gillow
New Region Board
President is also
Graduate
We’d like to welcome Kim Haydel, the
Southwest Region’s new board president.
Kim and her son, Chris, graduated with
Skilled Companion Gabrielle in 2006. "It's an
honor to do whatever I can to help Canine
Companions," Kim explains. "I've seen and
personally experienced the miracles that
Puppy Program Hits the Road
assistance dogs create."
More than 150 volunteers and puppies benefited from three workshops last fall. Puppy
Program Manager Becky Hein and Instructor Becky Miller traveled to Colorado Springs and
Salt Lake City and Puppy Program Assistant Julia Sanchez joined the fun in Oceanside.
The workshops featured presentations on problem solving and commands taught during
professional training, along with various updates from the Program Department.
This year, Phoenix has already hosted one workshop. Additional workshops are planned
for Salt Lake City in July, Colorado Springs in September and Southern California in October.
Look for updates online at cci.org/swpuppyraiser as details develop!
Above: A crowd of 74 volunteers gathered for the 2015 puppy workshop in Colorado
Springs.
10
SOUTHWEST REGION
CANINE COMPANIONS FOR INDEPENDENCE®
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➋
GFWC Grabs a Leash for DogFest
Each DogFest Walk ‘n Roll™ event is special to its community, but
people I met who are involved with this incredible organization,” said
the event’s true power lies in the combined commitment of thou-
Stephanie. “Everyone was warm and friendly and the puppy raisers
sands of participants, volunteers and supporters who help Canine
and recipients are just amazing to listen to and talk to. I’m honored
Companions provide assistance dogs free of charge to adults and
to have an opportunity to help raise funds for Canine Companions.”
children with disabilities.
We appreciate all of our DogFest volunteers, participants and
The General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) has shown
donors and we celebrate the uniqueness of everyone who is interested
amazing support to DogFest over the years, both in participation and
in helping. There are many ways to get involved in 2016 with over 30
planning. Kathy Buchko is a GFWC member who was disappointed
events planned! Find an event in your community and get involved at
when she found that the closest DogFest event was four hours from
cci.org/dogfest.
her. “I’m a full-time teacher, so I didn’t think I'd have enough time to
chair a DogFest event," explains Kathy. “But Cristina Saint-Blancard
with her hearing dog, Tatiana, agreed to co-chair an event with me
in our hometown of Ft. Lauderdale. She has really helped me see
everything Canine Companions does. I keep meeting people who
have inspiring stories and that makes me want to get more and more
involved.” The duo just completed their first DogFest event, and the
country's first DogFest of 2016 in February!
Edwina R. Kraemer, District 8 chair for the GFWC Florida President's Project: Wounded Veterans Initiative, committed to planning
a DogFest in her area as well. "I love seeing how someone’s eyes
light up as they learn about assistance dogs and what they can do
for people with disabilities, including our veterans,” says Edwina.
“The contagious excitement found among DogFest volunteers is
awesome and I love knowing that our caring community has left
behind a legacy to benefit humanity when I had the privilege of
Ways to Get Involved
Join the planning committee
Get more involved by joining the event planning committee for a
DogFest near you. Committee members ensure everything is organized, from recruiting and motivating teams and sponsors to planning
ceremonies.
Volunteer
No matter how many hours you have available, we can always use
your help on event day.
Form a team & fundraise
Team registration is easy! Start your own team and begin using
your personal page to recruit and organize a team of friends, family
members and coworkers. There is no minimum number required to
form a team.
chairing the inaugural DogFest Tampa. We plan for our DogFest to
Donate to the event or an individual participant
be an annual commitment to Canine Companions and our veterans."
With your help we can help more people increase their independence.
GFWC member Stephanie Cantrell chaired DogFest in Panama
Each person who donates to DogFest can take pride in knowing that
City last year, which was a huge success with over 1,000 attendees.
they are working to provide independence and companionship to
“I was amazed at the event turnout and the enthusiasm of the
people with disabilities.
➊ Edwina pictured with Southeast Region Community Events Coordinator Caryn and graduate Morton, a Navy veteran, with Service
Dog Oscar. Also pictured a Boy Scout troop that volunteered for DogFest Tampa — another great example of groups coming together
to give back in their communities through DogFest! ➋ Stephanie and Canine Companions graduate Breanna with Skilled Companion
Stevie during the DogFest Panama City opening ceremony.
THE COMPANION SPRING 2016
11
Hearing Dog Training Coming to
Southeast Region
Since the late 1990's, the training and
announce that the Hearing Dog Program
placement of hearing dogs has been
will expand to the Southeast Training Center,
centralized at the Canine Companions
located in Orlando, Florida. This will help
national headquarters in Santa Rosa. This
Canine Companions place a greater number
allowed the program to grow in quality
of hearing dogs to better meet the high
and size and provided an efficient use of
demand. Adding a second training location
resources, such as professional instructors.
will also increase convenience for recipients
Now in 2016, the time and conditions are
who are located closer to the East Coast.
right for expansion of the Hearing Dog
Program to a second location.
Learn more about hearing dogs at
cci.org/hearingdogs.
Canine Companions is excited to
Keeping our Dogs Well Fed
The month of December brought great
abilities.” Veteran graduates and volunteers
awareness of The Wounded Veterans Initia-
visited numerous stores across the country
tive™ in PetSmart stores across the country,
to give in-store presentations and visit with
thanks to Eukanuba and the PetSmart for
shoppers.
Patriots initiative. Eukanuba donated food
Donated Eukanuba dog food was
to Canine Companions for every specially
delivered to all six of Canine Companions
marked bag sold. Aisle displays in select
training centers across the country for dogs
PetSmart stores featured Canine Compan-
in professional training.
ions graduate teams.
“We’ve seen firsthand the impact Canine
“Pet owners visited select PetSmart
Companions for Independence and its assis-
stores and were able to learn how to support
tance dogs have made in the lives of people
Canine Companions while they shopped for
living with disabilities,” said PetSmart’s
their pets,” states Canine Companions CEO
Lindsay Del Chiaro. “We’re truly honored to
Paul Mundell. “The campaign promoted
partner with this organization to help provide
awareness around Canine Companions’
more military veterans with access to much-
mission to place highly skilled assistance
needed assistance dogs.”
dogs free of charge with people with dis-
12
CANINE COMPANIONS FOR INDEPENDENCE®
How to Talk Canine Companions
Canine Companions uses many terms to define our dogs and the work we do. Learn more about what each term means and how Canine
Companions uses it.
Assistance Dog
Canine Companions Puppy
A general, umbrella term used to describe
a dog specifically trained to serve an
individual with a disability.
A dog that is being trained to become an
assistance dog and is still in the care of
a volunteer. We no longer use the term
puppy in program or puppy in training.
Candidate
A person who has completed the
application process and is on the waiting
list to be invited to Team Training to
receive their assistance dog.
Yellow Canine Companions Vest
A yellow Canine Companions cape or vest
indicates a puppy that is under the care
and training of a volunteer.
Breeder Caretaker
Team Training
A volunteer who helps care for a male
or female breeder dog for Canine
Companions. Volunteers who care for the
female breeder dogs also help deliver and
care for the dog’s puppies until they are 8
weeks old.
The two-week intensive training for
recipients, during which they are matched
with and learn how to handle their new
assistance dogs.
Blue Canine Companions Vest
A blue Canine Companions vest indicates
a Canine Companions assistance dog that
is under the training of a professional
instructor or has already graduated with a
person with a disability.
Student
A client who is in the process of
completing Team Training.
Graduate or Team
A person with a disability and their
assistance dog who have successfully
completed Team Training.
Professional Training
The six to nine month period during which
dogs are trained by professional Canine
Companions instructors. Puppies are
returned to one of Canine Companions’ six
training centers by their volunteer puppy
raiser around a year and a half old to begin
their professional training. We no longer
use the term advanced training.
Canine Companions
Puppy Raiser
A volunteer who helps care, socialize and
train a puppy from 8 weeks old until it’s 14
to 18 months old.
THE COMPANION SPRING 2016
The abbreviated term for Canine
Companions for Independence. The
abbreviation CCI should be avoided. CCI
sounds too similar to “seeing eye” when
spoken and can confuse people since
Canine Companions does not train guide
dogs for people with visual impairments.
Lab/Golden Cross
A dog with genetic ancestry that is a mix
of both Labrador Retrievers and Golden
Retrievers.
13
2015–2016 Team Training Yearbook
Northwest Region
➊ November Jessica with Giannie;
Robert with Kepi II; Nachelle with
Gayle V; Sara with Penny V; Daniel with
Gandy II; Julie with Effie II; Fran with
Neon III
➋ November Mary Ann & Alex with
Ondre; Laurie & Claire with Pippa II;
Rebecca & Mason with Opal IX; Nancy
& Nathan with Nilda; Emily & Ben
with Edge; Mitesh, Shriya & Sohum
with Phantom; Melissa & Caden with
Jase; Lisa & David (not pictured) with
Shirley V
➊
➋
➌
➍
➎
➏
➌ January Melissa with Hiltie II,
Melanie with Bartram, Tara with Louisa
IV, Jonathan with Shiann, Don with
Condi
➍ January Dennis with Natt II,
Natalie with Jane VII, Ann with Ryann,
Sherri with Ralene, Bari with Anikan,
Jay with Phelps II, Nancy with Battier
➎ February Chad with Denny II,
Neal with Dawn IV, Steven with Ringo
IV, Wayne with Sean II, Danielle with
Kailee, Mike with Frodo II, Alicia with
Huey III, Kevin with Dolly V
➏ February Cindy with Orika, Karen
with Griffin IV, Corrina with Penryn,
Mary with Doris III, Lisa with Rignel,
Susan with Julie VI, Kris with Allie III,
John with Louis
North Central Region
➐ November Karla with Luke VI,
Sharlene & Julie with Mingus II, Daniele
& Gerald with Reef, Caitlin & Corina
with Honest, Amber with Kentfield,
Janie with Haven IV, Konrad & Kristen
with Liza IV, Emily & Catherine with
Romily, Kathy & Rita with Tasha IV,
Charlie & Kathy with Nexus II, Scott &
Rachele with Maya III, Brien with Fido
II, & Rebecca with Papaya
➑ February Kyle & Diane with Pepsi
II; Andrea with Tiana II; Joseph with
Clem; Adam with Graham III; Zander,
Diana & Ryan with Daniel III; Sharon
with Roman III; Margaret with Feivel;
Gina with Marvel III; Michael with Naomi
VII; Tim with Amigo; Tristan, Tammy &
Bryan with Lucy VI; Mike with Amore II
➐
➒ February Jeff with Nali; Beth with
Jimmie V; Robert with Foster III; Randi
with Garland III
➑
14
➒
CANINE COMPANIONS FOR INDEPENDENCE®
Northeast Region
Each of these teams was
matched free of charge,
but over 435 people are
still on our waiting list.
Visit cci.org/donate or used
the enclosed envelope to
make your donation.
➊ November Mary with Paoli,
Shannon & Colleen with Knight IV,
Nancy with Tango III, Johanna &
Eileen with Rae IV, Avery & Mindy with
Rainbow V, Christopher with Twix,
Kevin with Kipling III, Hannah & Sarah
with Nasca
➋ February Shannon with Saralee;
Ayla with Dax II; Logan & Colleen with
Odetta; Gabe & Melissa with Aaron VI;
Beth, Jim & Sue with Levin III; Ava &
Kristine with Cecily II; Kip with Odie
V; Matt with Fame III; Emma & Kristina
with Lovisa; Ryan, Bruce & Tracy with
Gilbert IV; Meghan & Denise with
Pisciotta; Melissa with Fliegel; Nora &
Tracy with Chevel II
Southeast Region
➌ November Karen with Lana VI;
Andy & Margy with Leith II; Melanie &
Cathy with Regatta; Bob, Les & Sarah
with Hardy III; Chelsey with Roma IV;
Francesca & Doug with Bert II; Steven
& Pam with Olsen II; Ray & Camille
with Pacman; David with Santos II
➊
➋
Join us for an upcoming
graduation ceremony.
Ceremonies are free and
open to the public. Join
us live, online or watch
previous ceremonies.
Find all the details at
cci.org/graduations.
➍ January Karen with Ninja III
➎ February Connie with Brian V;
Stefan & Katie with Knoxville; Larry
"LJ", Larry & Ruth with Bernie III; Julia
with Pilgrim III; Sheri with Bojangles;
Amy & Bethanee with Zarina III; Ryan
& Lisandra with Figaro II; Logan,
Michelle & Trevor with Peabody IV;
Allison "Allie" & Shelly with Zarina III
➌
➍
Southwest Region
➏ November Terri with Copper III;
Mary Lea & Christine with Porter V; Jim
with Omalley III; Tonya with Kona V
➐ November Kim with Tansy III;
Brody & Michelle with Cara IV
➑ November Kristy with Raisin
➎
➏
➒ November Chris (not pictured)
& Tavish III
➓ February Melanie & Mitchell with
Rockford II; Michelle, Devin & Patrick
with Kingston III; Beth with Hani; Sabine
with Balter II; Peyton & Bonnie with
Beatrice II; Andrew, Stacy & Barbara
with Poehler; Chance & Kari with Neelia
III; Susan & Fawn with Barb II
PTSD Service &
Emotional Support Dogs ➐
➑
➒
➓
Congrats to the dogs placed in 2015
through the Department of Veterans
Affairs’ post-traumatic stress disorder
(PTSD) study. The study is ongoing and
its goal is to determine the potential
benefits of canine support for veterans
with PTSD. Congratulations to the
puppy raisers of these dogs and the
veterans who received them.
⓫ Humphrey III, ⓬ Kaplan,
⓭ Labelle, ⓮ Macy, ⓯ Tuco,
⓰ Velvet IV, ⓱ Wise II
THE COMPANION SPRING 2016
⓫
⓬
⓭
⓮
⓯
⓰
⓱
15
Board Members
Nonprofit Org.
U.S. Postage
OFFICERS
John Miller
Bob Street
CHAIR
TREASURER
Naples, FL
Colorado Springs, CO
John McKinney
Pauline Parry, PhD
VICE CHAIR
SECRETARY
Healdsburg, CA
San Mateo, CA
MEMBERS
Steve Boyd
Dallas, TX
Chris Kittredge
Santa Rosa, CA
Joann Elliott
Naperville, IL
Judge Ed Kinkeade
Irving, TX
John Elliott
Naperville, IL
Jill Leverton, MD
Napa, CA
Cris Gerard,
Juergen Rottler
Gaienhofen-Horn,
Germany
EX-OFFICIO
Folsom, CA
Anne Gittinger
By Canine
Companions
for Independence
PO Box 446
Santa Rosa, CA 95402-0446
Address Service Requested
If you receive duplicate issues,
please contact us and pass extras
along to friends.
Robin Sanchez
Winter Garden, FL
BOARD CHAIR EMERITUS
Seattle, WA
Nancy Sawhney
Sacramento, CA
Mel Gottlieb
Double Bay, Australia
Jean Schulz
Barrie Graham
Novato, CA
BOARD CHAIR EMERITUS
Santa Rosa, CA
Russ Gurevitch, DVM
Penngrove, CA
Leslie Hennessy, PhD
Colorado Springs, CO
John Hopen
Sebastopol, CA
Dennis Sproule
Fullerton, CA
William White
Winter Park, FL
Emily Williams
Santa Rosa, CA
Carolyn Hrach
Mars, PA
Paul Mundell,
PAI D
CEO ,
Santa Rosa, CA
Honorary & Associate Board Members
Judy Allen
Palm Desert, CA
Terry Levin
San Francisco, CA
Jack Hanna
Powell, OH
Madeleine Paulson
Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Dean & Gerda Koontz
Newport Beach, CA
Jon Provost
Santa Rosa, CA
Offices
National Headquarters & Northwest Region
Training Center
SANTA ROSA, CA
Southwest Region
Training Center
Office
OCEANSIDE, CA
COLORADO SPRINGS, CO
Southeast Region
Training Center
ORLANDO, FL
Northeast Region
Training Center
MEDFORD, NY
North Central Region
Training Center
DELAWARE, OH
South Central Region
Training Center
IRVING, TX
Email: info@cci.org
Web Site: cci.org
Phone: 1-800-572-BARK (2275)
Copyright: ©2016 Canine Companions for Independence.
All rights reserved.
DogFest Planning Committees Forming Now
There are many ways to get involved in DogFest Walk 'n Roll™ in 2016 with over 30 events
planned! Find an event in your community and get involved. More information on page 11 or
visit cci.org/dogfest.
National Corporate Partners
#11647