Can Do Canines

Can Do Canines have a remarkable record of wise spending and caring service. They serve an essential audience at no charge to the client. Great people. A favorite of mine since the late 1990s.

We have been helping Can Do Canines train their assistant dogs for over 4 years now. We get to love and work with some very special dogs, be a part of a community of dog raisers and learn unique training skills. Can Do is great with classes and support for us volunteers. We can always schedule a one on one with a professional trainer if the dog in our care is having issues. When we go on vacation, they will always find another volunteer to take care of the dog in our care. They also cover all food, medication and vet visits, so we get to love and care for the dog and also receive pup[py kisses all for free!

My wife & I have been involved as both donors & volunteers for the past 5 years. As volunteers we have had dogs in our home from a few days to six weeks, I weekly walk dogs in Final Training at the New Hope facility, I periodically transport dogs to or from their prison training programs & most recently I have helped at the Whelping Center helping with the newborn puppies & their mamas. Serving & supporting Can Do Canines has been very rewarding in seeing how these dogs make a huge difference in the lives of the clients they serve.

can do canines helped me get my helper and companion magnum he is a lifesaver for me especially when my husband is over the road working which he would not be doing if magnum was not with me. we go to the store daily and due to the vasal vacal condition i have he is aware that if something is off with me he can go to one of the selected workers for assistance .life could be so different if i didn't have him in my life he has also been a Beacon to others who have come in contact with us we have found there are many people out there who can really benefit from what can do does and i and magnum are proud to let people know about this great organization he is primarily my mobility assistance dog but he does so much more i also have tremors in my hands primarily in my right hand and not only does he pick up after me he helps with laundry he lets me know if someone is at the door because my hearing isn't as good as it used to be he knows when i'm in pain even before i do at times he is an angel with 4 paws and god knew exactly who to send to me we are inseparable . thank you can do for all you do

This is a top notch organization. Not only do they have an important mission to provide specialized assistance dogs free of charge to people that need them; but they execute in a way that is exemplary. I have been a donor for awhile & have recently begun to volunteer. I cannot speak highly enough of the individuals I have met. I am highly impressed with the whole organization.

I have been volunteering with Can Do Canines since 2018 and I couldn't be happier to be part of an amazing organization! They treat their volunteers with care and respect, and the level of support is passed down to the amazing super hero four-legged partners for those with disabilities. As an autism parent, having the dogs in training has given my son support to talk to others about the amazing world of service dogs and provides comfort to him, all while giving back to others in a way he wouldn't otherwise understand.

Can Do Canines came into my life at a time when I was struggling with my type one diabetes and after applying I was paired with my hero Blaze. Can Do Canines gave me the necessary training and tips for me and my dog Blaze to be successful and after 3 and a half years I have not had a single diabetic episode and to put it simply this organization and my dog Blaze has changed my life

All the benefits of having a dog, without the financial responsibilities (except all the toys I can’t resist buying for them). Have a dog for a couple days, a couple weeks, or several months - they are the most flexible organization, and arrange a sitter if you need someone to fill in for a day/week. Easy to jump in with limited commitment. It’s been such a fulfilling opportunity that I’ve enjoyed for nearly two years now. These dogs are life-changing when paired as an assistance dog, but it’s also a life-changing experience for the inmates at the partner prisons that get to help train. Such a win-win!

My dad was a man of service to others, after he passed away it only seemed appropriate to make a donation in his honor/memory to a cause that is all about serving others! Can’t say enough great things about can do canines!

Amazing nonprofit that truly cares for their clients and dogs. I can’t imagine my life without them!

When Steve got Grady, he was a successor dog, who came to live with us 6/2/22. Rhett was Steve’s original service dog who passed away at 13 1/2 years old. Steve knew he wanted another Can Do Canine because Rhett was such an enormous help to him. in spring of 2022, Can Do Canines developed the companion dog program. After taking part in a seminar, Steve knew this was perfect for him. Grady retrieves for Steve, brings the laundry basket to Steve, opens doors and cupboards, and most importantly, nudges me to alert me that Steve needs help. This is especially important at night as I do not hear well and do not have my hearing aids in at night. Grady also provides pressure therapy on Steve’s back. Grady licks Steve’s head (gives “lovies”) for comfort. Of special importance is the confidence he gives Steve. Can Do Canines is a tremendous organization. The training they give the dogs (including seminars by zoom) on interesting topics related to the dogs are also wonderful. This organization is priceless and we are so thankful for them!

Can Do Canines is an amazing organization. Nellie is a certified mobility assist dog that was gifted to my disabled husband. She is a joy and a life changer. The organization does a phenomenal job at engaging volunteers to help raise the puppies, and their excellent staff provides support along the way. Super organization, I highly recommend and support.

My husband had a mobility assistance dog through Can Do Canines and I know how much it changed our lives. Now, since both have passed on, I am still volunteering with the organization, knowing the impact a dog will have for others. The people who are associated with Can Do Canines are passionate about improving the lives of others through their assistance dogs.

They take such good care of their volunteers. I have felt supported and heard every step of the way in my 8 years of volunteering with them.

Wonderful experience from day one!!! Staff are so friendly, helpful and knowledgeable.

I am so proud to support to this organization, both financially and by volunteering. The leaders in this organization are constantly evolving to ensure relevancy. To me this demonstrates how much they care about the clients, the volunteers and the dogs. The volunteers go above and beyond to ensure the dogs are well taken care of and are well trained. I'm proud to be a part!

Can Do Canines is an amazing organization! My daughter has benefited from a service dog which provides her more independence and a better quality of life then the doctors, teachers and specialists predicted. CDC staff are so supportive. Her service dog has helped my daughter have a life we never thought would be available to her. As parents, this service dog has actually changed our entire family. Having a child with a disability impacts the everyone in the family, so when a support is transformational (service dog Rylee) she made such a difference to all of us.

Can Do Canines has made it possible for me to gain independence by providing me with a professionally-trained mobility assistance dog at no charge, along with full support for me and my dog for the entire six years we’ve been a team. Other organizations charge clients $25-35,000, which makes access next to impossible for most people with disabilities who are already on limited incomes. Instead of spending years fundraising tens of thousands of dollars, I was able to begin training with my new partner within a few months. Can Do Canines is a responsible good steward with the funds that are raised; I am a client, but after seeing what I’ve seen as a recipient of their services, I am also a donor.

I got my assistance dog from Can Do Canines. She’s amazing! The staff are always friendly and helpful. I recommend them to anyone in need of an assistance dog

We started volunteering with Can Do Canines just a few months ago and have really come to appreciate so many aspects of the organization. We are primarily sitters for the dogs in training and have enjoyed that it is a flexible opportunity. CDC has been helpful getting us the information and training we need to best help the dogs going forward. We are looking forward to helping when we can for many more years.

Can Do Canines has given us so much! Their amazing staff and volunteers do an amazing job and change lives. Our life has gotten so much better because of them. Our new addition to the family is a hard working dog who helps our kid on the spectrum be safer and more independent. We can’t thank CDC enough for this blessing.

This organization changes lives by providing an assistance dog to those who need them. We hear stories at every board and the amazing things these dogs do for their person.

I have been a fan and a supporter of Can Do for over 10 years now. Am always amazed at what this organization accomplishes in training the dogs. Love to read the printed articles, or attend the graduations or fundraisers where the clients stories are shared with the audience. So many grateful clients, so many well trained dogs. Many thanks to everyone at Can Do - who make it all happen!

I have seizures and can do canines made it possible for me to be more independent in life and blessed me with such an amazing dog that has helped me so many times in my time of need!

I am a forever volunteer for Can Do Canines! They train dogs to help people with hearing loss, mobility challenges, diabetes, seizure disorders, and children with autism. This year they added two new programs; Facility Dogs who work in hospitals and with first responders, and Skilled Home Companions who work with their partners inside the house. I can't think of a better place to spend my time and treasure. I hope you'll join me in supporting Can Do Canines.
MarySue Krueger

As a former board member and long time supporter of Can Do Canines, I can say they are a well organized group of committed staff and volunteers who strongly believe in their mission.

I am especially impressed by Can Do Canines' long history of adapting and changing in order to meet the specialized needs of the people they serve. From their breeding program to specialized assistance dog training to their prison program, they continue to innovate and push the leading edge of what a service animal can do for people living with disabilities.

Get 2 bangs for 1 buck. At Can Do Canines you get to help 2 communities, the inmates who train the dogs who in turn change the the lives of the inmates , and the people who receive the dogs.

Well run organization that changes lives for individuals and their families. Changes lives for the dogs too!

I have been involved for almost 20 years as a volunteer. Good people doing very important work.

Can Do Canines paired me with Nina, a hearing assistance service dog. Nina has been my faithful partner for the last 7 years. Everyone tells me how wonderfully well behaved she is, and the services she provides help get along safely in a world that is built for the hearing. I can’t thank Can Do Canines enough for training Nina and placing her with me.

Volunteering with Can Do Canines has been a life enhancing experience. The organization supports volunteers by being available, connecting us with other volunteers, and providing multiple ways to help support them. They make time to recognize our contributions as well as invite us to celebrate successes. As a volunteer I feel valued and appreciated which keeps me wanting to be a part of this special organization. In my time with the organization I have fostered over 15 dogs in training and learned so much about how these dog change other people's lives and I have become a better at training dogs thanks to the classes and supporting material made available. It is a wonderful way to volunteer as a family and show my son how you can take your passion (dogs!) and find a way to give back to your community by doing something you love.

Our family specifically chose Can Do Canines as a place to volunteer. As a teacher I have seen first hand how dogs can make an impact on a student’s mental health. We believe Can Do Canines provides life changing opportunities for the clients who are matched with their service dog. They have many different ways that dogs are specially trained to meet the needs of clients. We like the ways foster trainers can support the training of the puppies. We are now a whelping host and great love and care is given to keep the heath of the dogs as a priority. This organization has amazing communication starting from the top all the way to all who become part of the Can Do journey. So thankful for being able to volunteer and spend time with such good people and especially the dogs!!

My husband’s service dog has expanded his life. With the hearing assist dog, he knows that he will not miss fire alarms or phone calls. Can Do Canines provided us with a beautifully trained dog free of charge. They are an amazing organization.

Can Do Canines drew me in with their mission and their focus on care and concern for the recipient client, the dogs, and the volunteers. It understands that the success of its mission requires attention to all three. I have been a puppy raiser and a fund raiser and a volunteer for Can Do Canines. It is easy to encourage others to participate- to apply for a dog, to donate and to volunteer- because the organization acts with heart and integrity.

I have been on the Board of Can DO Canines for 6 years. During that time I have had a chance to meet many of our clients, people that have recieved an assistance dog. I have had an opportunity to see how our assistance dogs change our client's lives. They allow our clients to live more independently providing assistance on a dailey basis. ALl of this is at no charge to our clients following a small application fee.

Can Do Canines provides life-changing - life-SAVING! - Assistance Dogs to people with various challenges. The testimonies from these clients are so meaningful and uplifting!
Lives are given purpose and meaning again. Families with an autistic child are able to do typical activities without the fear of dangerous escapes or embarrassing outbursts.
As a volunteer, I am incredibly grateful to contribute in any way I can to this amazing, selfless mission! I carry literature with me wherever I go and am constantly "sharing" the LOVE that Can Do Canines inspires!
The dogs are also trained in prisons and the stories of the healing, validation, and "redemption" these specially chosen inmates experience are incredible blessings!!!

We've supported Can Do Canines for nearly 30 years because of their innovative work. An amazing team doing great things for people (and dogs).

I've volunteered a few times with Can Do Canines, what a great organization and great staff! The events I've been to are on schedule and run well. You can tell everyone is dedicated and cares deeply about the organization's mission. The dogs are amazing and show the hard work and love the trainers give to each of them.

I highly recommend Can Do Canines. Can Do Canines does a wonderful job of training and matching dogs to the people that need them. I heard about Can Do Canines from a friend who received the benefit of a loving, compassionate dog to assist their family member suffering from a debilitating illness. Can Do Canines provides a life-changing service to those that need it. Thank you!

Incredible organization with exceptional leadership and purpose.

I have been involved with this charity for over 15 years. The stories are endless from matching dogs with clients and giving them a returned sense of independence to partnering with various prisons allowing the inmates to give back to the community and create a sense of self worth in the process. Can Do Canines has been around for over 30 years and there is a reason for that - they do a great job assisting individuals from all walks of life with many different disabilities and all at NO COST to them for an awesome assistance dog.

What a great experience it has been to work with Can Do Canines. The lives that are changed through the simple act of caring for a dog in my home is life changing for me as well as for the clients.
One of my first interactions as a volunteer, was with a woman at church who came up to thank me with tears in her eyes for taking in a dog. Her son had gotten a Can Do dog that changed his life and the life of their family. ❤️

My seizure assist dog Zeta came from CanDoCanines and I can’t say enough positive things about my experience with them. Their staff goes above and beyond to make sure I have everything needed to set me up for success in my partnership with Zeta. They actually deserve 6 stars!

Can Do Canines trains dogs to assist people with disabilities, and trains volunteers to train dogs. I love walking with dogs in for final training and welcoming dogs into my home. The graduations are the most satisfying as we see clients and dogs matched for their life's work! It's amazing what a dog can do!

This organization has changed our lives!!
Our son received the amazing gift of a diabetic alert dog who has helped him not only by alerting him of low blood sugars but also helped him with the depression that can sometimes go along with a disease/illness.
Now that our son is away from home our family volunteers by taking in Can Do Canine dogs that are being training for the next client. It is so rewarding and it feels great to pay back this fantastic organization with our time. But what they don’t know is that it secretly benefits us more being with these great dogs!! They are so loving and someday they will be “super heroes” to someone and we can say we were a part of that!❤️

I have been a donor and a volunteer since the early 2000’s. There has been nothing but admiration for the staff and volunteers that make this organization work to change people’s lives. The dedication of all involved is heartwarming and amazing.

We have puppy raised, long term and short term fostered many wonderful dogs for nearly the past three years, and absolutely love this organization and their mission! We are so in awe of the services they provide to clients and so grateful to be part of the volunteer family!

Can Do Canines changes lives in ways that few organizations do. Clearly the clients are benefactors, but it doesn't stop there! Everyone who comes in contact with Can Do Canines has their life altered in such meaningful ways. I have been intimately involved with the organization for over a decade now. As a volunteer and financial supporter I can attest to the return on investment for any contribution made whether that be by way of a monetary donation or a donation of time. My involvement has blessed me with so many experiences to include, but not limited to, puppy raising, fostering and whelping. Through my involvement I had had the opportunity to put hands on over 100 dogs at all stages of their development. The leadership, professional staff and volunteer base is second to none! I was so overwhelmed with the mission and impact of Can Do Canines that it lead me to the privilege of Board service. The approach of the organization is such that the vast majority of the financial contributions go directly in support of its mission. I am so very proud to be associated with such a first class Non-Profit!

We have been on the waiting list for more then 3 1/2 years to find out after an hour and a half interview a letter comes two weeks later to say we are not a good fit?! What! So an hour and half interview let’s you know my sons needs. Wasted over three years for something my son needs not wants but needs

Our daughter Andrea Miller received her seizure assist dog, Drake, from Can Do Canines in 2011. Before Drake, Andrea didn't have the independence she wanted and did not feel comfortable being alone. A friend suggested applying for an assistance dog from Can Do Canines. The first time Andrea met Drake she was surprised at how calm and well trained he was. The staff and trainers worked with Andrea on finding her the perfect dog. After weeks of training and then graduation she began to rely on his ability to be there for her, which gave her the confidence she was looking for to lead a more independent life. Having Drake made Andrea more comfortable after seizures by getting help and making her feel safe. Her family also felt a sense of relief knowing Drake was always by her side. The staff at Can Do Canines are exceptional at placing the client with the perfect dog! Andrea was blessed to have Drake in her life for 10 years.

An amazing group of staff and volunteers who work extremely hard to match their medical assistance dogs with deserving clients.

Can Do Canines provides an amazing resource to people with disabilities with increased independence and confidence. These canines are amazingly well trained to meet the needs of the individual they are partnered with, not to mention the deep bond of unconditional love and support they share. Can Do Canine staff develop a team with each person they serve through training and on going personal contact to assure a successful partnership.

Supporting this incredible organization in their work is an honor.

Can Do Canines is Amazing! I am so thankful for all of there hard work and time spent to help others just like me! I can't imagine life with out my mobility service dog Opal! This has been a life changing event for me and my family and we are Blessed beyond words to be part of this wonderful family!!

It’s been my pleasure to volunteer with Can-do-Canines for 5 years. The staff is committed to helping those whose lives will be enhanced by the addition of a service dog. They take great care to make sure both the client and dog are well matched, happy and fulfilled.

I started volunteering as a puppy raiser back in June 2018. Since then I have fostered 8 different puppies/dogs. Each one has been a joy. Working with CanDoCanines has been such a pleasure. They have provided me all the tools and training I need to support these amazing future service dogs. I find the organization to be authentically devoted to providing amazing companions to people whose lives can be dramatically improved by these service dogs. I would highly recommend the fostering experience or volunteering in others critical ways.

I have been so blessed to be able to volunteer for CDC. The staff are so helpful and informative. We have now fostered 2 dogs and are enjoying every minute. Thrilled to be a part of a great organization

I have volunteered for Can Do Canines for 10 years now. It was a perfect fit for me, a good cause and my love of dogs. The are very helpful, clear in their expectations and above all friendly and funny. A beautiful place that helps a lot of people, the perfect combination.

We love Can Do Canines! My husband, son and I are proud volunteers and financial supporters. As a volunteer I have a small view into where financial contributions go and am so impressed with how hard the staff works. Especially during Covid - keeping their program going safely!

Has provided Service dogs to help people with disabilities improve the quality of their lives.
If you heard the impact that people have had by getting a dog it will bring tears to your eyes.

Years ago my back started to really hurt. Bending over was excruciating. I learned how to pick up with my toes. Anything to save my back. I have had a pain pump and internal stem unit. Before that I was on Fentanyl and Percocet. That messed with my memory.

Enter Kirby. He carries things for me. Gets the phone. Helps with the laundry and gets things off the floor. A side thing he does is putting his head on my lab when all those measures do not cover all the pain. And when I feel alone, he makes me laugh trying to lick my lips.

Can Do Canines has impacted my life in a dozen ways. Even now 5 yrs later I am still getting support from my awesome trainer. Yea Leslie.

I had looked at dogs and could not afford to buy one. It takes over$25,000 to raise a dog from birth to being joined with their life partner. The awesome fundraising they do to give the dogs for the cost of an application fee.

Thank you birth families, puppy raiders, foster parents, trainers, walkers and all the corporate staff who make this program happen. Love you Kirby.

I’m a 9 year Veteran of the Marine Corps. I was strong, in control and a wife and mom. I’m 2013 I started getting symptoms of weird neurological things. I thought omg I have MS. ALS. It took 3 years and 7 doctors to finally get my diagnosis of Adult Onset Cerebellum Ataxia. Even the Mayo had no idea what I had. I went from a strong Marine to walking like I was drunk, slurred speech, no fine motor skills-as I progressed people kept telling me to look into an assistance dog. I was like a typical stubborn Marine in that no way I needed help nor was going to ask. I finally got on a list at a different organization and after almost 4 years I said forget it. I walked into Can Do Canines and was given the utmost professional communication and coaching as they fitted me with a dog. In months I was working and learning along with this organization that changed my life. I no longer am afraid to be alone. I no longer wish I could go for walks but now can do. My dog has spoken volumes to me about trust, patience and unconditional love. These are highly trained dogs that fit many needs. I can’t thank them enough!!!

I have watched how this program has grown and how supportive they are from the moment the puppies come into the program, to how they are handled and trained. But the most beautiful part is when they pair these dogs with their "person". WOW is the only way to describe it. Thank you thank you thank you!!!!

As a high school student I volunteered to raise money by working at the Renaissance Festival Pet Gate. I believe in this nonprofit Because I have two daughters with special needs and I have seen the power of these amazing animals helping children and adults like my girls!

❤️❤️❤️❤️
Patient
Clean
Kind
Dogs everywhere ������������
Woofaroo was a great time

I volunteer there regularly and the work they do is amazing and ever one is super friendly and supportive

I love what Cab Do Canines is doing for all of those in need of a service dog. I know a bit about what it takes to train service dogs, and what it takes is a village! These people work tirelessly for these dogs and their future humans that they will service.

As a volunteer, I have seen first hand the amazing commitment of the organization both to the clients and the dogs, and they respect and treat the volunteers amazingly!

We are short-term foster dogs for this wonderful organization. What a difference they are making in people's lives. It's a whole network of volunteers to raise a dog for such worthy causes. Proud to be part of it!

This is an amazing nonprofit!! 100% class act from top to bottom!! Such an amazing resource for anyone with a disability need!!

The work they do is extremely valuable to the people who need service dogs. They can become independent with the help of a service dog. The care and training that goes into these service dogs is unbelievable. Keep up the great work!!!!

My son was a recipient of a Can Do Canine and was helped immensely! He loves his assistance dog and will periodically ask me if Cooper will last forever. The trainers were wonderful with training the dog and me as the dog's handler. They followed up with us and were there to answer any questions we had after we brought him home. They do not charge the clients for these dogs so to continue their mission, they need generous people to come alongside them. If you are looking for an organization to donate your time and money to, this is certainly a worthy one.

There is no finer Nonprofit! We have been working with CDC for several years and it is an all around first class organization. Win, win, win, seems to be the worthy goal of CDC. It is a win for the clients who are served in the most honorable way by receiving service animals who enhance every day of their lives. It's a win for the volunteers who help each other and incarcerated individuals achieve goals they never thought possible, and it's a win for the CDC employees who work hard every day to help these two groups of people come together. This is an organization that continuously strives to reach higher goals and it proves itself deserving of its volunteers' time and its donors' dollars time and time again.

Can Do Canines is a fabulous organization helping disable clients to live independently as possible. I received a hearing dog in 2001 and was amaze how this organization worked with clients putting a dog into a client's home. I highly recommend this organization to all people who are thinking of getting a service animal to help in their daily life and living. This is a top notch nonprofit as I ever seen and they love what they do to help disable people live life to the fullness. Thank you Can Do Canines for being a part of my life and to enrich my life to the best of my capabilities. Proud of YOU everyone for doing an outstanding job for our great community and for the state of Minnesota.

I love this organization and what they do for individuals in need. I have been to a graduation ceremony where the trainers officially hand over the dogs to their people. Brings me to tears every time at the amazing skills of the dogs. I use this organization as the beneficiary when I make memorial gifts for loved ones that have passed away.

We wish to donate $115.00 in memory of Mr Tom Untiedt. Sincerely, Ken and Betty Pierskalla

This place is amazing! I am so impressed with the care for the dogs, the volunteers, the clients and all that goes in to the mission. I have been a foster home volunteer for a year now and as much as I love the dogs, I love the people just as much. Great cause!

I absolutely love this organization and love fostering the dogs. I'm proud to take the dogs out i the community and share their story with people I encounter.

I have been volunteering for Can Do Canines for about 20 years. They are a wonderful organization. Very well run and forward thinking. They see a problem or a need and they figure it out. They have tons of opportunities for any level of skill set and also for people with no previous experience. They are always very gracious towards their volunteers.

Can Do Canines is such an amazing organization! Volunteering is extremely rewarding and has added so much puppy love and excitement into my life! Any questions/concerns I have had have been quickly answered by staff - someone is always there to help! It is humbling to know I am just one small part in these Assistance dogs' journey to greatness!

What a fantastic organization to work with! The prison I work for in Wisconsin has a program through Can Do Canines and it has been such a blessing to this institution, the community and the organization. The staff at Can Do Canines are wonderful to work with and are very responsive to any needs or questions we have. I can't say enough good things about this organization as a whole!

My wife and I have been involved with Can Do Canines since 2013 when we began fostering for the CDC Prison Inmate Program. Since that time we have fostered, puppy raised, whelped a litter of future "superstars" and learned to appreciate the depth and value of what CDC offers to its clients. Over the past number of years we have come to realize how important Dogs can be in the lives of humans and the miraculous things they can be trained to do. We have witnessed the impact that each of these dogs have from the moment they enter the program until their ultimate placement. The CDC dogs change so many lives for the better!! We have witnessed inmates turn their lives around, people finding a purpose in life and ultimately seeing persons with disabilities getting their freedom, dignity and lives restored! CDC dogs truly do change the world...one dog at a time!! CDC has high standards and instills strong work ethics in their Service/Assistance Dogs while also being one of the most financially efficient non-profit organizations we have ever supported! Being part of CDC (at any level) provides you with an extended family in which you are treated with so much respect and kindness. CDC has one of the best training programs that focuses on five distinct disciplines of assistance dogs, all managed by an outstanding Team who work "hand in hand" with volunteers to unite together to bring out the best in the dogs, clients and all involved. Without question, CDC makes a difference!!!

I have been a volunteer with Can-Do-Canines for more than two years now. This is one incredible organization and I am so proud to be involved. I walk/exercise the assistance dogs in final training every week. They are a joy. I also participate by volunteering at fundraising events, such as the "Woofaroo" and the "Fetching Ball" gala.

These canines are the smartest creatures on earth and have been so dutifully, patiently and lovingly trained by such a professional and talented Can-Do-Canines staff. And, the fact that they utilize the talent incarcerated in Minnesota state prisons to help initiate some of the training is such a win-win for both dog and prisoner on so many levels. And, so many volunteers are involved with breeding, whelping, Good Start, puppy training and fostering. THERE IS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!!!!

(Please, please, please check out the Can-Do-Canines website for more information.) What an esteem-builder for everyone involved! I love and admire everything Can-Do-Canines does with and for the dogs and clients. Attend a "Tails to Tell" -- the stories will melt your heart, make you cry and laugh. Do NOT hesitate. Check it our RIGHT NOW!

I have been a volunteer with Can Do Canines for the past 3 years. They are an amazing agency to work with. They truly care about their dogs, their volunteers and making the world a better place for those who are in need!

I've volunteered for Can Do Canines over several years. The mission is extraordinary and staff and volunteers are excellent. I've seen other assistance animal training organizations who do not use the same sensible and cost-effective methods of sourcing and training dogs. I respect their methodology and keen attention to high quality outcomes for both the client and the dog.

I am greatly inspired by Can Do Canines and support them whenever possible. Their mission is a simple one - to help those with challenges/disabilities by providing them with an assistance dog - but it's very effective and life-changing. I am always gratified when I read their newsletter "The Howler", and see the difference they are making with people that might be your neighbor. I know when I give, I'm giving to a greater cause; that they are doing excellent work, and that the recipients of these beautiful dogs are breathing a little easier because Can Do Canines exists; there's nothing better really, is there?

i became a fan of Can Do Canines through my son and his wife from down in the Cities. What a wonderful organization that truly changes lives of not only the courageous recipients but also the precious loving animals. Keep up the great work! Mary F. Northern Mn

My daughter and I attended on of the Sat. introduction sessions and you introduced a few of the current recipients with their new assistant dogs and it brought tears to my eyes. We were going to become volunteers but my daughter was diagnosed with breast cancer so we have to put those plans on hold for the time being. I think Can Do Canines is a wonderful joyful experience and the volunteers are so giving and caring.

I have volunteered for Can Do Canines for the past few years. I am so impressed with the staff dedication and expertise in training these dogs and matching them with people, free of charge, who can benefit so greatly from them. Kudos to my favorite charity!!!

I have contributed to this wonderful organization for many years. It has a dual purpose in helping people achieve independence as well as helping dogs acquire the training they need and find good homes. I feel my donations are well spent on the people and the animals in need and Can Do Canines does such a great job at keeping their administrative costs to a minimum. BRAVO

Can Do Canines Assistance Dogs is one of the premier assistance dog organizations I have ever encountered. As a nonprofit, they have excelled in training and placing assistance dogs for a variety of needs to clients whose lives are forever changed by having an assistance dog that offers them independence that would have never been possible, even training to assist clients with more than one disability. They are always accessible for assistance to their clients' needs. Over the years, CDCAD has responsibly and slowly moved forward to achieve a training center that is state of the art to expand the number of clients receiving assistance dogs and a welcoming beacon of hope to everyone who comes through their door. I was especially drawn to CDCAD with their program of rescuing potential service dogs from animal control and humane shelters whose owners had seen no value in, allowing them to become loved and priceless to the clients they are placed with.

Two points:

1) Volunteering with Can Do Canines is like Chicken Soup for the Soul....

I have volunteered with Can Do Canines over the past year as a puppy raiser, long term foster and short term foster. People always say, "Giving back the dog would break my heart - how do you do it?!"

No doubt, it is hard. Tears are shed. Home doesn't feel like home. Things are suddenly quiet....

But the sad tears are far outnumbered by the tears of joy and pride. Seeing your former family member profoundly change a life is like no other feeling. Opening your home and pouring your heart, sweat and tears into a puppy - to better the life of someone you've never met - is the gold standard of selflessness.

2) Can Do Canines is a fantastic organization for young people to get involved with and make a significant impact!

As a younger person, volunteering with Can Do Canines has far exceeded my wildest expectations. I have never felt like a cog in the wheel - but a meaningful player in an important game. Additionally, my discretionary spending is not great enough to make a financial impact, so using my time to directly change lives is quite an amazing feeling.

Over the past year of volunteering with Can Do Canines, I have nothing but fantastic things to say about the organization, their mission, the facilities, the staff and other volunteers.

I have been a supporter of Can Do Canine for years. their work with dogs and clients alike is exemplary. I feel that my money goes towards training and placement of fabulous dogs who can change people's lives. My husband and I like them so much they are in our will!
Pat and Paul in Bloomington MN

I begin volunteering with Can Do Canines over two years ago and in that time I learned so much about what a great organization they truly are. The staff and volunteers are dedicated to their cause and this is shown as they continue to grow and are able to provide more and more assistance dogs to those in need. I can't say enough about how much Can Do Canines is able to change people's lives and provide them with a new way to live their lives and a new best friend. Thank you, Can Do Canines, for everything you do!!

This is the most amazing program. Not only do they provide life changing dogs to those in need of assistance, they use the prison system to help in training. My son unfortunately met the wrong person when he was 18 and landed himself in prison. This program was a life changer for him and many others in the system.

Where do I even start with this amazing nonprofit that completely changed my daughter's day-to-day living? Can Do Canines literally GAVE Samantha's life back to her.

There are so many amazing ways they've done this. Samantha's mobility assist service dog, Obie, is by her side every minute of every day. He picks things up off of the floor so that she doesn't have to bend down, risking a severe and immediate drop in her blood pressure which causes her to pass out without warning. Before Obie, she knocked out her front teeth and has sustained several concussions. He helps her up or down the stairs, braces himself to assist her when she needs to get up from sitting on the floor, opens doors (he's a real gentleman), brings things to her from another family member, brings her credit card up to the counter to pay a bill, and even delivers laundry downstairs to the laundry room. Now if we could just train him to fold it and put it away. ;0)

Obie can go get help if Samantha needs him to. He can retrieve her phone if asked. He also carries her medical information in his vest pocket in case of an emergency. As a parent, those are three of the most comforting things I could've ever hoped for. I used to worry about her non-stop, to the point that I couldn't focus on anything else. Now I know that Obie has her back, whether that's at college (which she's been able to go back to) or at the grocery store-wherever. They've become an inseparable team!

Can Do Canines not only provided Obie free of charge, but also food and supplies to get started, amazing trainers so that the two of them learned how to work together, lots of client education, and a lifetime of support. If Samantha needs Obie to do a task that he wasn't originally trained for, she can contact Can Do at anytime and they with assist her with training him to perform the new skill.

Last, but far from least, Obie has vastly improved Samantha's emotional health. She feels safe again, able to trust (and even push) her body a bit more knowing that Obie will be there to help when needed. This has resulted in fewer doctor visits and days spent in bed not feeling well. He even motivated her to be active again and go for a walk or to the dog park because she knows he enjoys them so much. She wants to take care of him as well as he takes care of her.

Thank you Can Do Canines for not only changing my daughter's life, but ours as well. You've FAR exceeded any expectations we could've even imagined. I would have never dreamed that a four-legged angel could enter our lives and make such an incredible difference. May you always have the funding to bless others' lives as you've blessed ours!

I didn't know Can Do Canines existed until 3 years ago when a friend of mine took me to their luncheon. It was there that I listened to and met a man who hot an assistance dog and his live had improved so much. Then I learned that no one pays for their assistance dog.........that is amazing. That day I also met many pups who were on the road to being assistance dogs and heard the remarkable tale of the training it takes to get a pup ready for someone in need. I don't at this time live near enough to Can Do Canines to be of any help, but if I did I would certainly volunteer there. It is a most deserving organization.

As a child, we have dreams that cannot conceive boundaries. As an adult, we often find that those very dreams are not the reality that we may live. Try as we may, life has its own plan for each of us; moments that can define who we may become. At the time, I was in my early thirties, boundaries began to shape my life. Limitations that had become a daily struggle that ultimately became the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. Those boundaries that I could not even conceive as a child had, indeed, become my reality.

A defining moment occurred when I learned about Can Do Canines. I had not even thought of the possibility of a mobility assistance dog, let alone how a four-legged angel could, and would, change my life.

The list of skills that Justeen does daily for me has given me the gift of reengaging in life. The challenges are still there, and always will be, but Justeen makes accomplishing the everyday tasks possible and with less pain. She opens drawers and doors, picks up and retrieves all of the items that my rigid hands drop constantly, carries bags in and out of stores for me, empties my grocery bags, and tugs my laundry basket to where I need it to be. She has given me peace of mind by being able to get the emergency phone when I have needed it. Justeen has become my ambassador in stores; just having her at my side verifies that I do need extra assistance and I no longer have to search for help. This angel has truly given me my life back, simplified my life with her extensive skills, and returned my independence. Justeen has also given my husband peace of mind for when he is not at my side. This sweet, kind, gentle angel has literally become my life-line, partner, and ambassador.

Without an extremely dedicated staff and volunteers none of this could be possible. There are now over 500 partnerships that Can Do Canines has willingly and freely given. I am grateful that I was one of those "furever " teams.

Losing Sandy, my first hearing dog of ten years, was not only heartbreaking, but with her went many normal securities of life that many take for granted. Knowing when the alarm clock is going off, when the phone is ringing, or someone is at the door....knowing when the oven timer is beeping, the teapot is boiling, or if my husband needs me in another room....and being alert to the fire alarm or carbon monoxide alarms blaring, or an intruder are all things I miss. I'm severely hearing impaired, about 80% deaf. Without my hearing aids I can't hear a dog bark.

It took about two years of missing these things before I was ready to give my heart to another "Sandy". My second hearing dog was a gift. An American Eskimo, which I began training when she was 14 weeks old. I am so very thankful that CanDoCanine accepted her to complete her training and be certified through their nonprofit organization. CanDoCanine provided my first hearing dog, so I was fully confident that they would send me off with the needed security and the best obedience for public access.

If you are interested, our story along with a photo is in the fall of 2015 newsletter on CanDoCanine's website. My new hearing dog's name is Shiya. It means "Snow at Dawn". Her white fluffy body gently lays across my chest (with an added lick or two) as she awakes me each morning when she hears the alarm clock. She loves working. I've caught her sitting on the end of my bed just waiting for the alarm to go off!

Through the support of individuals and organizations, CanDoCanine has provided the restored confidence and peace of mind to live daily life at home or elsewhere. Shiya and I are a team now....just like Sandy and I were for all those years. Thank you CanDoCanine, and Dora our trainer. What a blessing these dogs have been.

We have been volunteers for Can-Do-Canines for over 15 years. We have seen so many cute puppies grow up to be assistance dogs and new members to countless families that have a special need. They are not just pets, they become lifelines for those that need help.
We admire Can-Do-Canines, for all they do to help so many people (children and adults).
We will continue to support this great organization and hope others will too.

They are the best!!! I can't imagine my life without my service dog.

I became familiar with Can Do Canines about three years ago. I have personally witnessed the benefits that a service dog from this organization has provided for two individuals that I know, a man with a degenerative disease and a woman with cerebral palsy.The amazing dogs so professionally trained by Can Do Canines have increased independence in their knew owners and have also provided companionship which is priceless. The thoroughness of the training for the dog as well as for the client (new owner) is remarkable. I see the woman with cerebral palsy on a regular basis and have been impressed by the change in self confidence and independence and love that has grown since she has had the opportunity to have a service dog from Can Do Canines .

My family has been a Can Do Canines volunteer since 2010 and over the years, we have had the pleasure of sharing our home with 16 puppies. We have done both short and long term fostering as well as puppy raising two of them. One of the puppies was donated from a breeder the other one came from a shelter, but all of them have a special place in our hearts. The staff is always professional, supportive, patient and very knowledgeable. It is apparent that this is so much more than a job for them. The health and safety of the dogs is a top priority at Can Do Canines, however, they are just as concerned about the people they place the dogs with. It's a bond like no other so it's important that it's a perfect match. We are so proud to be a part of this amazing organization and would highly recommend it to volunteers and prospective recipients alike. Three cheers (and barks) for Can Do Canines!

Can Do Canines has opened a whole new world for our family. Raising two teenagers can be challenging but when our two mentioned interest in having another dog, we encouraged them to check out what we would need to be volunteers and raise a puppy for someone else. Can Do Canines answered our call. Our kids have been 100% involved in raising puppies and are eager to share with others about the impact these puppies have on individuals who haven't been as fortunate as we have been. They truly have become more selfless, compassionate young adults. They go to classes, outings and even run errands because the pups need to be socialized. WE ALL know the impact the dogs have on individuals who need the service of these dogs, but the impact they have had on our family, coworkers and friends has been just as valuable. We love being ambassadors for Can Do Canine and have committed to continued support for an organization that POSITIVELY impacts, every individual who comes in to contact with one of the dogs. Our only regret is that we didn't begin sooner! Can Do Canines makes a difference!

Contrary to another review, I can say that Con Do Canines DOES use rescue animals in their program. I am a volunteer who has trained rescues animals to be service dogs and want to continue to do so as it is double duty in helping Can Do's clients as well as dogs who may not have another opportunity for a life such as they have with their clients. I was introduced to Can Do in a presentation at my place of work. I was looking for a volunteer opportunity after retirement helping people and dogs, and there it was! I couldn't wait until retirement so am juggling it all now and have never been more satisfied. Wonderful organization, wonderful people who truly love these animals and work hard to produce the best service dogs at not cost to the client.

Can Do Canines does NOT use rescue animals and relies on breeding programs for their dogs...tells the volunteers that volunteering is not enough, they expect financial donations too. Too much focus on autism-not enough focus on service/hearing dogs etc. Shady organization that I have washed my hands of.

I & my husband have been involved with CanDoCanines for years with the Lions organization.
All these dogs are wonderfully trained to help so many of those needing help to be independent & the many children that has had comfort & come to have a better life with being able to be so comforted. Keeping up the awesome work of helping the handicap is soooooooooooooo needed. God Bless!!

Being a veterinarian and dog lover I was able to give back to the community by raising 2 eager to please puppies for Can-Do-Canines, an assistance dog organization in New Hope, MN. The staff devotion and knowledge, the volunteer dedication and compassion and the great needs being met make this Nonprofit one of the most awesome that I have ever been involved with. Seeing and hearing the struggles with everyday living that the dog recipients have and how one dog can give them independence and comfort makes giving up the puppies I have raised and loved worth it. I take for granted being able to bend over to pick up something I've dropped or ( when my children were that age) for my toddler not to run off in a panicked meltdown at the mall. Seeing the puppies I raised perform a simple task to help a person in need is more heartwarming than I can explain. Being a part of something bigger and bringing peace of mind to the families who have the dogs now has blessed me as much as it has them. although it has been over a year since the second puppy went to his new owner people ask me about him all the time, where he is and how he is doing. I learned so much through the experience too.

10 dogs ago we received our first service dog in training. Not knowing squat about dogs we were a little nervous. But Can Do Canines, actually Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota at the time, gave us direction and training to help us do what was needed. Jordan went on to certify as a seizure assist dog. What a rewarding experience! We were hooked. Can Do Canines has come a long way in there puppy raiser program and have done amazing things for the clients that have come to them for an assistance dog. All free of charge to them. We have now raised 7 dogs that have gone on to certify as service dogs, and are training our tenth. I still get a tear to my eyes when I think of the great opportunity I have provided to others with life challenging issues. Can Do Canines is TRUELY an AMAZING non-profit organization!

I have a dog from Can Do Canines.
I expected my dog to do work for me but never did I for a moment realize the change she would make in me.
After having a few falls in public before her I had decided to stay in my home as much as possible and because of the depression that came with my disability I cut off as much outside contact as possible. I even refused to see my own family and spoke to them only on holidays.
Then along came my assistance dog Camille. I wasnt too sure at first about trusting her but after being awaken from a fire starting in my home I had little doubt I could trust her.
With Camilles help we are truly a team and she makes sure I get out of the house everyday and visit with people and she LOVES to see my nephews and even cries in the car as we get closer to seeing them. :)
THANK YOU Can Do Canines and all those involved in bringing Camille into my life she really had saved my life!

My wife received Diabetic Assist dog Hailey several years ago. My wife was at a very critical point in her life because she has had diabetes for nearly 50 years. We were house bound and I could not turn my back on her as she would just pass out in a matter of moments. Sleeping all night without a very low and dangerous blood sugar episode was impossible. Hailey has changed everything. She catches the low blood sugars before they become a problem and has certainly saved my wife's life dozens of times. Please take the time to go to Can-D0-Canines website and check them out. Try and make it to one of their events. I promise it will change your life.

It's been remarkable to observe the growth of this organization over the years. The basic idea of training canines to assist folks who need help due to hearing loss, and physical limitations has grown to include assistance for those with diabetes, autism and PTSD. Part of the appeal of volunteering with Can Do Canines was their ability to train dogs from rescue places such as the pound and the Humane Society. They continue to train and match homeless dogs with people who needed assistance - talk about a win-win mission!

Years ago I started volunteering at the office and then began to provide a temporary home for dogs that were being considered for the program. Trainers wanted to know if the dog was compatible with my cats, since some clients already had a cat in their home. Other temperament/behavior issues were carefully considered also and only those dogs with the appropriate personalities were accepted for training.

This wonderful organization continues to professionally train and place exceptional "can-do" canines with deserving clients at no cost to the recipient. Can Do Canines is truly a great non-profit!

My wife and I had been looking for an opportunity to work with a group that could use our help and we would also enjoy helping. Can Do was the perfect fit for us. We are Dog People, with three Labradors of our own already.
To understand how much this group and the dogs they provide really mean, just attend a graduation or an event when the amazing dogs are helping their clients. To see the bond and the support these dogs give to their clients is just incredible and this group is doing phenomenal work.
We are so pleased to be associated with Can Do Canines and are volunteers and donors.
Stu Wicklund, Greenfield MN

My husband, Frank, received his mobility assistance dog Diva 2 years ago and she has been a Godsend. I know I can go to work each day and not worry as much because she is there when he needs her. Diva will hop up on my side of the bed after I leave and will stay next to Frank if he didn't sleep that night until he is feeling rested and ready to transfer into his wheelchair.
Can Do Canines is a wonderful agency and is staffed by people who sincerely want to be of service to those that need the love and help from a highly trained dog.

I have had the profoundly humbling experience of helping Can Do Canines as a field trainer several times. I say humbling because both the staff and the clients are amazingly committed, and the dogs are such a gift to a person struggling in ways most of us cannot imagine.

To be able to help a deaf woman find a sense of security in her home with the help of her hearing dog and a young man with CP continue his work, gain independence and become an outspoken advocate for CDC and people with disabilities in general made me more aware of the small things I could do to change my little corner of the world.

Everyone at CDC, from the Director to the Receptionists are knowledgeable and passionate about the program, and have the best interest of the clients and dogs in mind at all times. This organization has always used it's funds wisely and is committed to providing service dogs to it's clients free of charge.

I too "envision a future in which every person who needs and wants an assistance dog can have one".
Sarah G.

I have been a client of Can Do Canines for 20 years and during that time had the honor of having 3 hearing assistance dogs. Each dog was well trained and provided me with invaluable service. The staff at Can Do Canines is responsive and sensitive to my needs and the needs of my assistance dogs. I strongly recommend Can Do Canines. Their work with training assistance dogs for people with a wide variety of disabilities is top notch.

I was volunteering at the Pet Gate at the Renaissance Festival to raise money for Can Do Canines. I met an autistic 4 year old and his service Dog along with the boy's mother. I was impressed with how well the dog waited for the boy to stand up and how calm the dog was around this 4 year old. What dog waits for a 4 year old? This dog did. Now mom starts heading for the gate, the boy veered off in another direction and the dog stopped so the boy had to stop as they were tied together--tethered more like it--for the safety of the boy so he did not wander off. I am so impressed by the time taken by another volunteer to train this dog to be able to do what he did today and take care of this boy. I foster dogs for a rescue organization and my dogs are not taught this well. Hats off to the volunteer that accomplished this training in order that this special needs child can now be safe and his parents do not have to worry so much about him running off and getting hurt or worse, getting lost. This nonprofit gets an A+++ in my book for the time and training they put into these special dogs. Thank you for what you do...

This organization is outstanding in its service to help others. They work hard to raise, train and GIVE AWAY dogs who do amazing things. Their employees are some of the most kind and generous people that I have come in contact with and to know that their employees are all members of Lions Clubs International takes them one step further than anyone else when it comes to the Lions motto "We Serve".

When I retired in 2007 I tried several volunteer opportunities before finding Can Do Canines. This organization is wonderful. They show heartfelt appreciation for volunteers. Just knowing that what I do for them helps in some small way makes all of the time I spend well worth it. The staff shows total dedication in everything they do. The entire cycle from the time puppies first come to them, placement with puppy raisers and prison programs, then back to Can Do for final training, matching the dog with its person is what it's all about. It is heartwarming to see the final result. So many people benefit from this organization. It's top notch.

I am a Can Do Canines donor, and my daughter hopes to one day have a diabetic alert dog. Can Do Canines does an excellent job thanking donors, telling their clients' stories and promoting volunteer and event opportunities for the public to participate. Their storytelling, in particular, is incredibly inspirational and of a very high quality. I appreciate the fact that they put their clients first (humans and canines!) and that is evident in everything they do.

As a recently retired physical therapist I knew I wanted to become a volunteer for Can Do Canines. I recently attended one of their "graduation" ceremonies. If you ever are able to attend I would highly recommend bringing along a few tissues. It is so heart-warming to see what these dogs are able to do for people with physical and psychological challenges.

Our family became puppy program volunteers in April (2014) when we welcomed a black lab puppy into our home. Since we were going to put so much time, effort and financial resources into Can Do Canines, I did some research before volunteering. I read their annual reports and financial statements, talked to a former board member, and found them to be a very sound, financially responsibly organization. Since becoming involved I've been very impressed with the support they offer to their volunteers. Even more impressive are the amazing life-changing things their trained service dogs do for (and with) their human partners. I'm proud to be associated with this organization!

I have been a volunteer, donor, puppy raiser, and foster for a number of years. I started volunteering with the organization after hearing about their work with the prisons and continue to volunteer to support their mission. Can Do Canines does a great job of training and supporting their puppy raisers and fosters through a variety of ways - electronic, phone and in-person support. I truly feel like they have the dog's best interest in mind throughout the entire training, placement, and beyond. Their trainers are very experienced and work well with both the dogs and puppy raisers. I have always felt appreciated and believe that my time and money is well spent.
There aren't many organizations where you can say your efforts drastically changed lives for the better - both a human's and a dog's.

My husband and I have been volunteer puppy raisers and fosters for over 2 years and have had a variety of dogs placed in our care. I continue to be amazed by the professionalism of the trainers, the staff and the organization as a whole. One of our service dogs in training had to be career changed at 9 months old due to becoming anxious in public and their only concern was the best interests of the dog and whether this dog could be happy as a service dog. When the answer was determined to be no and that he would thrive in a one owner family, they immediately found a loving home for him as a pet. I see him often and he is doing wonderfully. I appreciate the fact that Can Do Canines looks at the needs of the clients AND the needs of the dogs in order to make great connections, safe interactions, and happy volunteers. They are always looking for ways to increase their outreach, help their volunteers, and serve the community. I consider my time to be very valuable, and I would not still be a volunteer with Can Do Canines if I didn't feel that they were an incredible organization with an incredible goal of making a difference in the lives of others. I've seen the success stories, and what these dogs do for their clients is awe inspiring. I don't hesitate to recommend them as a place to donate, a place to volunteer or a place to visit.

My Mom and I are in Rochester, MN at the mayo clinic for appointments and today (5/29/2014) her service dog, Bella, was attacked inside the hospital by one of "Can Do Canines" standard poodle service dogs. It's terrible they place such an aggressive dog with anyone, let alone someone in a wheelchair.. I honestly fear for this disabled persons safety (as well as others in public such as people and animals) A police report had to be made and the dog had to be banned from the hospital. Thankfully my Mom's service dog is ok from the attack but the handler was very shaken up from the behavior of their dog..

My husband and I learned about Can-Do-Canines in Sept. 2012 through a spot at the end of a news program. Approximately a year and a half ago we needed to have our wonderful, loving dog euthanized due to an untreatable medical problem. I vowed at that time to never have another dog as a pet; I felt that I couldn't go through that trauma again. Learning about Dan-Do-Canines and the work these amazing dogs do for their recipients completely grabbed my heart and we both became volunteers. The staff is as supporting to humans as it is to the animals.

Since Sept. 2012, we have fostered several beautiful and truly amazing dogs. Knowing that these wonderful animals will make such a difference to people who need their help allows us to return them to C.D.C. for their final training. We are very grateful that we are able to play a part in helping others. I have had the joy of witnessing the love of a recipient greeting her dog as they met for a training session. If you have any doubt that dog and person share a very loving relationship, just visit a Graduation.

I could not believe the one star review written here. Granted it is one person's opinion but it does say things are very misleading and downright untrue. I have volunteered with Can Do Canine's and have found completely the opposite of that review to be the case. The dogs are well cared for and cared about from what I see. I've met with puppy raisers at parties and can tell how very much the dogs are loved and socialized when in their care. I believe the same to be true when they leave the puppy raisers and go into training. The relationship the dogs will share with their human partners is dependent on those very things...love and socialization. There would be no purpose served in any training methods other than positive reward. The staff and volunteers I have worked with are dedicated to both the animals and the clients they serve. These dogs have enhanced so many people's lives ~ it isn't even possible to explain the value here in words. Go see the facility, meet the staff, meet the dogs, go to a graduation ceremony and see for yourself the life changing outcome this program has for some very special people or better yet...volunteer and get right into the nitty gritty so you can make your own assessment!

Hey, can do canines is a group that cares about the clients they serve and the dogs they train. I've volunteered by raising and fostering puppies and events etc. Sure they could improve. All companies can. But they put their clients and dogs first and the heart of the organization is in the right place.

After a long research about autism assistance dogs I came in contact with Can do canines. Even though we have not received the dog for our son with autism yet, so far we have only great things to say about Can do canines. Our questions are answered right away and besides the long wait, almost 3 years on the waiting list, so far no complains, just hope that our son will match with a dog from this wonderful organization soon

I went to one of the open house is back in July and was very impressed with the organization. I heard stories and met people who have benefited from the dogs they've received and it was truly moving. The organization is so dedicated to helping people but also to make sure that the dogs are well cared for. I also attended the woof a roo had a wonderful time. I plan on volunteering with this organization in the future.

My sister received her hearing assistance dog Autumn last year and it has changed her life. Autumn lets her know when someone is at the door, when the timer on the oven goes off, and can alert her during the night when her hearing aides are out that the smoke alarm is going off. Autumn has greatly reduced the worries our parents and I had about her living on her own. We were always afraid that there would be a fire and she would just sleep through it. Can Do Canines is amazing and really helps so many people have wonderful independent lives!

Can Do Canines is an awesome organization. They truly care about the humans they serve and the dogs they train to serve them. I have researched a number of service animal organizations as I am in need of a hearing dog and Can Do Canines stands out as a quality organizations. If you are in a position to volunteer or contri uteto Can Do Canines I encourage you to do so-

I am so impressed with the work of Can Do Canines. Through enormous efforts of volunteers, donors and community support, CDC provides assistance dogs for people with hearing or mobility problems, seizure or diabetes, or for children with autism, at no cost to the recipient.

Some of the dogs in this programs are part of their breeding program, but some are rescued from local shelters/humane societies. Volunteers help raise/train puppies. One thing that really impressed me about how CDC is that they also have a program with two local prisons where prisoners work with the dogs to refine their skills before they are placed with their human partners.

But of course the huge impact is that made by the assistance dog in each person's life. One has only to attend a CDC graduation ceremony and listen to each person's story to recognize that. And seeing the capabilities of these dogs is amazing.

I've support Can Do Canines because they not only help people but also give shelter dogs a second chance at life by training them as service dogs

I have been helping Can Do Canines for about ten years through the Lions. I am our Lions district Can Do Canines co-chair. I am now ten months into raising and training my first puppy for them. Every day I get more excited about Can Do canines and their mission. They have an awesome, experienced and very helpful staff and many great volunteers. I wish everyone could listen to their clients and hear how very, very much their lives have changed because of Can Do Canines and their dogs.

My family has been volunteering as Puppy Raisers for almost a year now with Can Do Canines. We are raising a black lab puppy that someday is going to go to her "forever human" as a gift of independence, freedom, love and companionship. The staff at CDC is fantastic, always willing to help with the final goal of helping the client and dog meet their full potential. Everyone is encouraging and in it for the right reasons!

we are breeders who donate puppies and stud service to the wonderful program at can-do-canines ... we can't say enough about the professionalism of their training program and care given by the puppy raisers ... we trust them with our doggies ... what great work they do, changing lives 1 dog at a time

Hi!

I got involved as a volunteer with Can-Do-Canines two years ago. Prior to that, our family had gone through some rough patches, but I knew I wanted us to volunteer and give back since focusing on others when life is hard, is very life giving. A friend of mine had heard about CDC and since our own dog had died the year before, we wanted to check out what volunteering for CDC would look like. We decided that we would become puppy raisers, meaning, we would have a puppy be a part of our family for about 1 1/2 years and we would be trained to train the puppy!
We are currently puppy raising our second puppy and we just had the privilege of seeing our first puppy be certified/graduate as an diabetes assist dog and that was incredible. We got to meet the client that now has this dog and she could share stories about how her life has changed after she got her diabetes assist dog. She knows her dog will alert her 24/7 and that is an incredible gift. Also, she loves the temperament of her dog; he likes to stay active and so does the client, so now she has a companion for when she runs, bikes and swims. I am so proud of them, and I am so proud of being involved with such an amazing organization. It is life giving to be a volunteer for them!

I have been a puppy raiser with Can Do Canines almost a year. I am raising a black lab puppy to one day help her client be more active and independent in his/her daily life. I love working with Can Do Canines and admire the incredible work they do to promote independence for all people. Over and over I see how the good work at Can Do Canines is helping to improve the lives of so many people. I am honored to be a part of such great success.

We have been puppy raisers with Can Do Canines for 11 years. The first puppy we raised was so much fun and the people we met had such an impact on our lives that we keep coming back for more! We've worked with several dogs from puppy to adult, done short term fosters, and have whelped four litters. It's a lot of work, but so worth it when you get to see what a difference these dogs make in their client's lives!

When I first applied over 5 years ago, even through today, if I have a question about my mobility assist dog, someone at this agency is helpful in answer it or helping me to find the answer. I've been very happy with this agency from the time they came to my home to do the interview, the information they gave me, letting me know what they expect of me, the training with my dog match, even finding a match with the breed I prerferred. The day of our graduation as a service dog team was so new to me, but very exciting, and a person really needs to attend a gradutation to understand the importance of these dogs to the presonal lives of the individuals who receive them. I've been back for someone else';s graduation, and have the same feelings I had at my graduation. The dog placed with me, Redford, was an excellent match. He continues to demonstrate how smart he is and has changed my world in so many positive ways!

Our son received his Diabetic Assistance dog in March 2013. She is the best help and friend! Prior to the two of them being matched, our son had unfortunate experiences medically because of Hypoglycemic Unawareness. That's a lack of awareness of low blood sugar symptoms. All the medical/technical kinds of assistance by way of CGM and an insulin pump could not protect him as well as his diabetic assistance dog does. As a family member, we are so very grateful for all the contributions of time, talent and financial assets given by Can Do Canines staff, volunteers and everyone who worked together to build our son and his dog as a team. We feel so much safer knowing that his dog is on duty to alert him when his blood sugar is low or high and persist so that he takes measures to correct either before serious experiences happen. His dog is a very treasured friend to our son.

This organization helped to change my life - I should not say helped but was the key to the change in the form of Cyrus, my mobility assist dog. Before Cyrus I was very house bound - afraid of going out in public, falling, and not being able to do those little tasks others take for granted. Since Cyrus my world has again opened up and the fear that kept me in the house is gone. The training he received by the puppy-raisers, trainers, volunteers and staff at the Can Do Canines organization was the reason I have the freedom I have today. There is no way I can ever thank them enough

My family and I are puppy raisers so we help raise and train the dogs before they are given to a client. We have been doing this for over two years and have enjoyed our experience with raising the pups. The staff at Can Do Canines is dedicated to making sure the dogs that are given to a client are the best trained dog as possible. Our first dog graduated in October and we were so proud of the accomplishment of our family and the dog we raised. We couldn't have done our job without the support of the trainers and other staff at Can Do Canines. This organization is committed to giving an assistance dog to every person who needs and wants one FOR FREE. I am very proud to be associated with this organization.

There is no place I'd rather spend my "free time" than helping out Can Do Canines! They are a wonderful organization, run by amazing people who help so many. The hard-working folks at CDC are to be commended for their unparalleled commitment - they bring freedom, independence and peace of mind to the lives of those needing assistance by creating a mutually beneficial partnership with a specially trained dog matched to personal assistance needs.

I have Multiple Sclerosis and have a desperate need for help doing the daily tasked that "normal" people take for granted. Can Do Canines has stepped forward by providing me with an assistance dog that helps me with these tasks and, as a sheer bonus, is a wonderful addition to my family.

I've worked with dogs, professionally, all my working life. It came to the point, because of my MS, that I could no longer do the work I had done for so many years. I was urged to apply with Can Do Canines. By a miracle of God, they accepted me into the program. It took some time but eventually they showed up at my doorstep with a beautiful, fully trained female black lab. I fell in love with her instantly and the love has only grown with each day. The trainers are AWESOME as are the puppy raisers!

"Karma' helps to balance me when I walk and gets me things I drop. She also will get a phone for me when I fall in the house. She's always with me wherever I go. Before Karma, I rarely went out because I was afraid of falling. Now, with the brace she wears I can hold onto her and I no longer fear falling in public.

She's my best buddy and watches me continuously. She loves to curl up with me to watch TV and snuggles with me in bed on cold nights. She also barks very loud and scares off anyone who comes to our door. Unless she knows them! They get a toy picked out and carried to them by Karma:) She loves everyone but I'm okay with her loud ferocious bark!

Karma has opened my world again. She goes to all my medical appointments which are many! They love her there and she makes the appointments more fun while sitting in the waiting room. She's special and makes me feel special. I love her so much! And, she was given to me by Can Do Canines who do not charge for these awesome dogs! Kathy Schroeder and Karma.

Would definitely recommend going somewhere else! Don't care about the animals at all, it is all about the money. Once saw a trainer twist a puppies ear when she thought no one was looking because it was behaving badly. Their kennels are disgusting and the dogs are not cared for properly. Just disappointing.

This Outstanding organization is my personal charity of choice and I support many. We have had the privilege to puppy raise and/or foster 18 dogs over the past 6 years. We also have helped out at graduation--always an emotional moving experience seeing the dogs with their clients. In addition, we have represented the organization at various events as booth representatives--telling their story. They use dogs of many breeds and include rescue dogs from shelters as part of the their exceptional program. Not all the dogs make it but they make every effort to have them be successful. They are very professional in their work that provide dogs trained helping individuals with disabilities, hearing loss or deafness, alerting to medical conditions, and serving autistic children and their families. I am proud to volunteer for this organization---Can Do Canines--home of Hearing and Service Dogs.