2023 Top-Rated Nonprofit

Canines With a Cause

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Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Animal Protection & Welfare, Animals, Military & Veterans Organizations, Veterans

Mission: The mission of Canines With a Cause is to unite veterans and rescued dogs to heal emotional and psychological wounds.

Community Stories

84 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

nrn3688 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

12/29/2024

My father, may he rest in peace, is the one on the very top in this photo. I am so proud of him and the service he gave while in the military. I wish he would have been fortunate enough to have had a service dog but it was not meant to be for him. However, Canines with a Cause has done and is doing incredible work for our veterans. The team behind the scenes from the trainers and staff, to those who we don’t see in public. The kindness, respect, compassion and commitment is inspiring. I am grateful, as the daughter of a veteran to see the wonderful work and service they provide and my hope is that this organization continues in the years ahead.
THANK YOU!!

syoukey09 Client Served

Rating: 5

12/29/2024

I love this organization. They helped my uncle so much, Chloe is so kind and personable.

Previous Stories

Client Served

Rating: 5

09/02/2021

Cwac has been great to me and my dad. Chloe is absolutely wonderful and very knowledgeable. Great experience!

justJon General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

12/29/2024

Such a kind, caring, group. They go out of their way to help so many of our forgotten. I’ve seen first hand how much they do to transform lives.

nickciolino Client Served

Rating: 5

09/26/2024

Excellent organization from my experience so far.

The team has been great at communicating through the application process, and adjustable to accommodate my schedule!

I look forward to the progress my dog and I experience through their program

ChelsG Client Served

Rating: 5

09/16/2024

My pup and I are almost done with training and it has been great. Harleigh and Chloe have truly been amazing & caring trainers. I’m really glad this organization is here. It really helps people like me more easily re-integrate into society again.

Previous Stories

Client Served

Rating: 5

09/11/2023

My pup Poptart and I have been a part of the program for less than a year. It has been wonderful. Chloe has been our trainer and she’s the bees knees. She’s so patient with us and truly knows her stuff. I also love the fact that it’s treat based training (NO shock collars). These pups (and all dogs/animals) deserve respect and compassion. I love being a part of this community and I’m grateful they offer this program. It’ll help me tremendously when she’s fully trained and we go out in public together.

oliver.t Board Member

Rating: 5

09/12/2024

CWAC is an amazing organization, their training methods take time, but they deliver a superior dog and handler team.

Previous Stories
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Board Member

Rating: 5

09/10/2023

Canines with a Cause continues to educate and help the public understand what service dogs do. As a board member I have been able to go to many public events where CWAC has spoken about the organizations mission and educated the public. Continued outreach is helping many people better understand service dogs.

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1

Nytad Client Served

Rating: 5

09/10/2024

After I got out of the Marine Corps I contacted the VA for help with a service dog. They directed me to Canines With A Cause and soon after got my dog. He was already a very kind and trained young dog and they’ve helped me massively. Teaching me how to train and work with him and we’ve come a long way in a short amount of time thanks to their help. He has since helped me massively with mental problems I struggled with. Very thankful for CWAC and all the amazing people that are involved!

zlentz General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/24/2023

A wonderful group of individuals! They are dedicated to their cause. Chloe C shows outstanding professionalism as a dog trainer.

cutshawfam Client Served

Rating: 5

10/18/2023

Cloe has worked hard to find the right fit for me. Though I have only had my dog for 2 weeks, he is my best friend. Having him has me leaving my house.and actually getting exercise. I take him on long walks that's good for him and for me.

MarleyDad Client Served

Rating: 5

10/17/2023

I am a 25-year military veteran. CWAC placed me with my service dog Marley. The process of training, and the support that Marley gives, help me work through my PTSD and anxiety symptom. Thanks to Marley and the entire CWAC staff, I am able to navigate the world, and function at work. I am eternally grateful.

belu26 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/17/2023

I am a disabled veteran and when we got accepted into the programming we were ecstatic. Chloe and her team were phenomenal from the get go!

The program is designed to build up yourself and your pupper. It is a fantastic program designed to help you navigate training as well as your emotional and mental well-being. It isn't an easy program, but a well-worth one.

If you get an opportunity to donate or join the program I would highly recommend this organization!

1

syoukey2009 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/06/2023

I have worked with this organization for over a year and I can honestly say they are amazing! The communication is always up to par and the staff is wonderful

Harpoulson Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/05/2023

I am just starting to get involved with CWAC & I am impressed with the attention to detail. It’s run by a small team & everyone is very warm & caring, every dog & veteran gets so much individual attention & guidance.

intheflesh89 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/10/2023

I had gotten a shelter dog and for months could not find a program that would help me a disabled veteran train her as a service dog until Canines with a Cause

smajjr Client Served

Rating: 5

09/10/2023

As a veteran with a traumatic past, CWAC provided me with the trainer and dog to help me return to regular employment. As he ages out of service, they are ready to help me train a new dog to continue in his place.

Dogs are constantly learning and they have always been ready to aid or assist when any new situation came up.

sarahlawtonms Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/26/2022

Wonderful organization with an even more wonderful director! 8 years later we still have our “foster failure” heeler, Willy who still keeps us on our toes (and let’s us know where we can walk)! We love him so:)

cmartinez105 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/13/2022

Canines With a Cause is a small organization with big dreams to help others. I was drawn to this organization based on the cause. Not only do they care about giving back and helping veterans but they truly care about the dogs they rescue, focused on giving them purpose and a second chance.

mugke5-quxkew-Pidqiv General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/12/2022

Love what Canines with a Cause does to support soldiers, dogs, and inmates. We were lucky enough to get this big hunk of love from them 6 years ago when they pulled him from a shelter and discovered he was a lover, not a worker ❤️

brie24 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

08/29/2022

I have a great public adoption dog. She was originally rescued from the shelter, but after some training was Deemed better for home pet than service! Thanks to canines with a cause I was honored with receiving her into my home. I trust them and would adopt a dog from them again 100%

Rags45 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/28/2022

Thank you Canines with a Cause for all the love you give.

Gezzie General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/28/2022

I'm thrilled Canines with a Cause has branched out into my region of North Idaho & Eastern Washington. What a blessing to have an organization like this come and help our veterans.

1

asvargas1013 Client Served

Rating: 5

08/27/2022

Canines With a Cause has changed my life . Chloe is so knowledgeable and helpful. The program has been amazing to work with. Thank you so much

shortee7m Client Served

Rating: 5

08/26/2022

Canines With a Cause have given me a chance to live my life despite the symptoms of PTSD that have kept me living in my head and fearful of going outside the comfort of my home. With the training and support that they are providing me and my pup Libby we now go on short daily outings and weekly longer outings. This organizations saves lives and provide life to veterans who desperately need it. I am so grateful to them.

Valkuren Client Served

Rating: 5

08/26/2022

Great trainers and organization. Canines with a cause makes a very positive impact in veterans lives.

Dkirbyny Client Served

Rating: 5

08/01/2022

I am currently participating in the program and all of the staff and trainers are absolutely amazing! No matter what questions I have they have the answers for!!

SCWilliamson Client Served

Rating: 5

09/26/2021

Hi, my name is Shannon. I am a 100% service connected disabled veteran with PTSD/MST. Almost two years ago (this long due to COVID) the VA connected me with Canines With a Cause (CWAS). Through them I was given Luna, at the time an 8 month old Standard Poodle. She is truly amazing. ❤ the best partner I could ask for. The training and guidance from CWACs staff has been invaluable. Luna and I will be taking (and passing) our advanced test (I forget the actual name of it) very soon and graduating the program.

hana1028 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/18/2021

They have been so helpful to me. I have been working with Chloe training my dog Noodle. I have had some serious health problems and Chloe works around my schedule. I have learned so much about training a dog and I couldn’t have done any of it without canines with a cause

poppet123 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

09/17/2021

Great organization, that live up to their promises.

1

KG749 Advisor

Rating: 5

09/06/2021

Incredible organization. I've gotten more and more involved over the years because this organization is doing such important, necessary work in our community. They see the interconnectedness of things and work with it (dogs, inmates, veterans, partners, volunteers, community). They understand that healing and integrating PTS is a deep process and support the journey. Such a beautiful example of what can be created and the positive difference it can make when we bring seemingly unrelated elements together to solve challenges and lift spirits.


Adam S.9 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/03/2021

I have had nothing but good experiences with CWAC. I’m still in the program and all the trainers are patient and I can tell they have our interests in mind. I’m extremely grateful to be a part of such a great program.

Shawnn Kimberly H. Client Served

Rating: 5

08/27/2021

I have been with canines with a cause for about a year now that are great to work with very supportive well trained and definitely love the dogs and the veterans

1

Mason M.3 Client Served

Rating: 5

08/26/2021

They’ve helped me so much! Not only is my dog learning how to assist but we are so much more bonded then we were and my dog is happier than he’s ever been.

1

JamesRogers424 Client Served

Rating: 5

08/26/2021

Canines With a Cause has been such a beautiful experience! I had no prior dog handling experience before receiving my doggo. With the guidance of my trainer, I feel confident and empowered as I train my future service dog! Is there a an option to leave a 6 star review? So grateful for this program!

1

Shannon Colleen W. Client Served

Rating: 5

08/26/2021

This program is fantastic! My Luna and I will be graduating soon because of their training and care. I could not ask for a better Service dog/life time companion. Nor could I have without CWAC! Special thanks to Chloe.

2

Bobbie Dawn L. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/30/2020

I participated in the prison program with Canines With a Cause. It was one of the most rewarding experiences that I've ever had. Knowing that we were helping not only the dog but also a veteran was so humbling.
I have worked with them a couple of times since my release and they are wonderful. The work that is done is amazing... They are truly heroes in my book.
I have even adopted a dog from them!

RhodaJStauffer Advisor

Rating: 5

10/28/2020

Passionate and caring staff. CWAC does a good job of saving both human and canine lives. The interaction between trainers and the veterans with their dogs is very thoughtful and caring. It takes real time and patience to alleviate the affects of PTSD and the program does just that. The program provides many points of interaction, helping to bring veterans out of their shells and helps to combat self-isolation. The organization funnels a a large portion of their donations to the training programs, directly benefiting veterans.

1

epicX222 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/22/2020

We adopted our standard poodle Soto from Canines with a cause and the entire experience was amazing! They made the entire adoption process straight forward and easy. Very professionally run and the work they do to help people in need of a service animal is heart warming! Everything about this rescue is positive. From taking the dogs out of shelters and having them trained by prisoners to the placement of the animals with a veteran. You can tell everyone involved in this rescue is passionate about the animals and the people that are lucky enough to get one of these special dogs in their lives.

Mband Donor

Rating: 5

10/21/2020

Love love love Canines with a Cause! Taking shelter pets and retraining them as service dogs. How could there be a better story? And the dogs that don't make the cut? They end up in wonderful homes. Our beloved Thelma was a Canines with a Cause dog and our newest dog Gypsy was also a Canines with a Cause prison trained wonder! Such a great non profit run by caring and wonderful people!

jackmahoney Client Served

Rating: 5

10/21/2020

The staff was wonderful to work with! My Buddy is my constant companion and helper. He’s been with me through five surgeries and 47 follow up visits this year. Not sure how I would have made it through 2020 without Canines With a Cause!

ymarroquinll General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/20/2020

They do great work! I am thankful for their program

eric.halladay Client Served

Rating: 5

10/20/2020

I am a 27-year veteran that just recently medically retired with 100% disability. Life was tough and I what is having trouble finding resources to meet my special needs. Then at the VA I was approached by a representative from canines with a Cause. They were so understanding and welcoming wanting to help that I joined the program without hesitation. They found an extremely well-qualified puppy for me to be in training with. It is unlike me with PTSD to remain focused on anyting but I so enjoy and look forward to going to the weekly training with my service dog. They're expert trainers are so amazing that progress is unbelievable. There is no way now I could live without the aid of my service dog. It truly has changed and saved my life. Thank you canines with a Cause true Americans. They just don't say thank you they provide actions for veterans in need

2

tcope Client Served

Rating: 5

11/02/2017

I’m an Iraq and Afghanistan veteran and I’ve been working with canines with a cause for a year now. I suffer from PTSD and severe anxiety. CWAC matched me up with my sweet dog Murphy and the process of training him weekly is therapy In itself ! I haven’t had to provide a dime to work with this program and I am so grateful to have to opportunity to get my service dog.

Jamie M.2 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/31/2017

Great people doing great things for other great people and wonderful dogs.

Cody L. Client Served

Rating: 5

10/31/2017

I will be forever grateful to Canines With A Cause for introducing me to my Bernie. Adopting him was the best thing I have done in my life. He was the best boy! From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

Kelley C.1 Advisor

Rating: 5

10/31/2017

Their commitment to rescuing shelter dogs and placing with veterans to combat PTSD, depression and other symptoms that call for a psychiatric service dog or a great companion is unfaltering. They are also deeply committed to the female inmate training program which continues to see results and offers the inmates vocational skills and a positive way of viewing life and it's challenges. No dog is left behind! Working closely with CWAC care is taken by the staff in the stewardship of the lives affected and the costs of the program.

bicyclegeek8 Client Served

Rating: 5

03/23/2017

I found CWAC looking for help as a veteran with PTSD. Even though Dune and I have only been through the first class, and are excited to begin our next one. It takes work but the trainers are wonderful to work with and when I have had questions they have been very responsive, both in and out of class.

1

theshadowdancer Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/01/2013

Initially I was looking to adopt or foster a dog but the more I learned about Canines with a cause the more I knew that I needed to offer what I could to this organization. It was a fantastic experience volunteering with Canines with a Cause! Saving homeless dogs and helping veterans is such important work, I looked forward to volunteering for the dog training sessions every week. I know that even though there is not monetary compensation the rewards that I received by spending time with these great people has added such great value to my life.

Craig25 Donor

Rating: 5

11/01/2013

I think Kathy King has a true vision. Not only is she saving dogs lives, she is impacting many lives in many ways. Please step up and Give Back to Canines With A True Cause and effect.

Aerous E. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

11/01/2013

As a veteran I know what it means to have non-profit organizations like this one looking out for me. As a disabled, I absolutely can attest to the saving power of animals in my therapy.

It keeps me from being depressed. it helps me know that there are creatures in the world that offer their love unselfishly.

Canines With a Cause is not only a good cause, IT IS ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL for many veterans who are suicidal, or lost with no hope. Men and women who are finding it hard to re-adjust to civilian life with special needs. CWAC is the best.

Hatty T. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

11/01/2013

staff members & volunteers helped us thru every step of the adoption of our addition to our family. Every detail was addressed & handled without a fuss. Transported our puppy to us without a moments hesitation. thank you!

vigorishslc Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/31/2013

I have been involved with this program for almost 2.5 years. I am constantly impressed by the commitment and drive of the wonderful volunteers. On a weekly basis I get to see veterans and their dogs making progress toward harmonious relationships and I am proud to be associated with CWAC.

Becky56 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/31/2013

Canines With a Cause helped us adopt our dog, Darwin, earlier this year, and we greatly appreciated their service and time. They were patient and welcoming as we discussed the possibility of meeting Darwin. And they graciously met us at a convenient location near our home so we could meet him. The representative we met with had so much info about the dog, and obviously cared a great deal about the home he was going to. We had support to make sure it was the right fit, and they even let us do a week long trial foster period. Canines With a Cause very clearly wanted to better our home life and give us the companion we wanted. They included his collar, crate, vaccines, and a microchip for Darwin, which we were very grateful for! I have since recommended people to CWAC and will continue to do so!

Megan60 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/31/2013

Awesome organization that does everything they can for the dogs that need help and also the veterans. I have not had the opportunity to adopt from them or help by fostering but I have watched them help lots of dogs and I hope to work with them once my circumstances allow it

1 FireDocUSMC

FireDocUSMC Client Served

Rating: 5

10/31/2013

I am a USMC Nam Era Veteran disabled Federal Fire Fighter of over 24 years, and former Correctional Sergeant/Fire Safety Officer. With the passing of our 2 canines Poke 2009 & Acacia Embers 2011, that we had adopted in CA, our family was not complete without the occasion bark, wag and paws on our laps, or going places as a family, camping and walking with our canine children, drawing others attention and praise.

PetFinders led us to Hank aka the Hank'ster, which brought us in touch with Canines With A Cause, adoption went smoothly and there was more laughter in our home once again...Hank a 3-4 month old Border Collie who had his own medical challenges in his young life. CWAC helped us with his treatment and CWAC since became part of our Family as well. I will not throw out any names as Buddy another BC rescued by CWAC came into our home to be Fostered until AD Journey, returned from Dog Trials in So.CA., where our family are from...and upon AD's return, Buddy had bonded so well with Hank, it was decided Buddy belonged here...and over 18 months later they remain close as Brothers.

https://www.facebook.com/hank.n.buddy and http://hankpokewilliamsjr.blogspot.com/

Now our family including 2 Felines and a Cockatiel are very happy, well our Felines (George & Janome) have another opinion, as in keeping a low profile, being quiet and watching from above....that is from the top of our TV cabinet. Hank n Buddy are very quiet, well behaving, lovable, love to play, ignore the Felines and love being with family...we could not ask for more, other than if we can only do more for CWAC and their Mission, as a family. And we offer to foster other CWAC rescues if needed.

CamillaK Donor

Rating: 5

10/31/2013

Canines with a Cause is an amazing non-profit that goes beyond expectations. Not only do they save canine lives but they save human ones by working with veterans. The work they do is incredible and I've met many of their volunteers, all passionate and knowledgable. When I donate to them I know they are not going to waste a penny and it all goes to continuing their mission.

Jaci L. Client Served

Rating: 5

10/31/2013

I was able to adopt s dog through Canines with a Cause. It was the best and easiest adoption process I have ever been through. I have adopted 4 other dogs. 2 have passed away.
I will continue to adopted from them.

1

buddingzebra Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/31/2013

I had a wonderful opportunity to foster a CWAC dog. The goal of this organiation is such a win-win for all involved. The more you understand the far reaches of this program....the more it's importance to the communities it touches becomes apparent. Take a moment....learn more and I'm sure you'll want to be supportive and involved in some way with Canines with a Cause.

1

Christina64 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/31/2013

I have had the privilege of knowing the Canines with a Cause team since the concepting phase for this amazing not-for-profit organization. I am continually at awe by the dedication and service this team provides to Military Veterans as well as well deserving shelter animals. The concept of this pairing is so logical and natural. The execution takes a loving and diligent team willing to make continual sacrifices on behalf of this program. To date 165+ animals have been placed in loving homes. This not only means that 165+ shelter animals have been saved from a life of total uncertainty, it also means that 165+ loving families have been given the gift of unconditional love and companionship. The time and financial resources necessary to make these connections happen are a necessary part of the equation - but the return makes every minute and dollar spent well worth it. BRAVO Canines With A Cause for your diligent work serving both the shelter animal community as well as the Military Veterans community. You are an incredible group!

shancicc Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/31/2013

I have volunteered with CWAC, then hired a year ago. I have been working with shelter dogs and veterans closely. It is awesome to see how dogs can change a veterans life. I constantly point our to our participants any change I see in their own personality. I see a lot of smiles when thing go well. This is a great organization that I am happy to work for.

Previous Stories

Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/24/2012

I used to train Seeing Eye dogs for the blind in NJ. I did this for 15 years. I loved the whole process of matching the right dog to the right person. Then, watching them blossom into a team was amazing to watch. The hard work I put into training a dog for a blind person and then watching what I did for someone was VERY rewarding. Because of my husband's job, I moved here to Utah and got involved with CWAC because of a good friend of mine. This program helps to match veterans with PTSD with the perfect dog that they themselves, through the expertise of a head trainer, will take classes to learn how to train there own service dog. Being involved with this whole process brings me back to my days working for The Seeing Eye. I feel the same reward for taking a shelter dog and matching them to a veteran who can change their life forever.

morninghoodpc Advisor

Rating: 5

10/31/2013

My involvement with Canines with a Cause has been virtually since the beginning. The work and effort produced by this organization is so underrated they definitely deserve any accolades coming their way. The lives they save and impact from both a human and canine point of view are truly remarkable. Cathy King is amazing, as well as all the volunteers, board members and everyone who make the organization what it is.

karajrowley Client Served

Rating: 5

10/31/2013

Canines with a cause stays with you as you try to go through whether adopting a rescue dog, or training a service dog. They help you find the right dog with your needs. They're a great organization that fill a great need.

credking Board Member

Rating: 5

10/31/2013

I have been involved with CWAC since inception. This organization not only gives shelter dogs another chance to have loving homes, the dogs enhances the lives if the veterans they are partnered with. The dogs will soon be trained in a local prison, the offenfers in the prison will benefit from skills learned training and grooming the dogs.

Previous Stories

Board Member

Rating: 5

11/27/2012

Canines With a Cause is making a difference in the lives of shelter dogs as well as the veterans who benefite from the unconditional, non-judgemental love they provide. The training process is wonderful therapy and gives the veterans a sense of accomplishment.

Julie Board Member

Rating: 5

08/23/2013

For years, I appreciated the work Cathy King and Canines with a Cause did . . . every rescue saved two lives. But, in addition to saving animals from shelters and giving veterans companions, Cathy was generous with her time. On numerous occasions she came to my classroom to help my eighth and ninth grade students understand that animals matter. Cathy taught my children how to write letters to legislators and about sustainable rescue.

Then, on July 9th, Cathy called me. A few months earlier, I lost a sweet senior poodle. She told me about Timmy. Timmy spent most of his life helping a veteran with PTSD. When his veteran could no longer care for him, Cathy asked if he could stay with me.

Almost 15-years-old, without teeth, hard-of-hearing, unable to see very well and little wobbly, Timmy moved into my home. His big heart, gentle spirit, lopsided ears and sweet appreciation for everything re-taught me how to love.

A month later, I accepted a position on the Board for Canines with a Cause. CWAC makes a difference.

Cameron H. Client Served

Rating: 5

08/22/2013

** I adopted a young yellow lab, through CWAC. At first, he was so crazy and hyper. I often considered returning him, and giving up being his forever home. His name is Romeo. He saved my life. Keeping him was like deciding to live. Suicide was no longer an option. I needed him. He needed me. We toughed it out. Now we are better friends then I could have ever imagined. I thank CWAC for saving Romeo from a shelter, and indirectly saving me from suicide.

Kati4 Donor

Rating: 5

08/21/2013

I have a hard time writing or talking about this wonderful organization with out a tear in my eye. It comes straight from my heart I LOVE this organization and putting it very straight forward this organization saves lives. I have always felt we do not do enough to edecate people about dogs, so they don't end up in shelters or pounds. And I feel we owe more to our veterans, who give so much for us as a nation. CWAC SAVES LIVES. The first life it saves is that of shelter dog, who does not understand where they are or why they are there. The second life it saves is that of the brave solider coming back from war who has fought for our country, our freedom, our rights. Cathy, Shawn and all the volunteers, fosters, donors, work selfless to match dogs with veterans, so they can both sleep peaceful at night. CWAC has spread the word that we can all work together to make a win/win situation. Cathy has spoke to church groups, businesses, government agencies, attends conferences, lobbies on capital hill for animal rights and veterans rights. This orgainzation deserves to be spot lighted and known to everyone - it shows we can help... one dog and one solider at a time turns into many.

cesmith1 Board Member

Rating: 5

08/21/2013

Canines With a Cause is such a great organization! They save 2 lives - the Veteran and the Dog! Their Executive Director works so hard to make sure that the needs of the Veterans and their Companion Dogs are met. The difference between the Dogs and Veterans once they start to work together on training is a wonderful site to behold !!!

Previous Stories

Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/26/2012

What a wonderful thing to Save 2 Lives! I love helping Canines With a Cause save dogs on death row in shelters and place them with Veterans who have PTSD and need help putting their lives back. The dog training program really helps to make sure the Veteran and the Dog get the help to be able to stay together as a family. The Veterans love their dogs so much and in turn, the dogs love them. It is a match made in Heaven!

rufusmagoofus Donor

Rating: 5

08/21/2013

I fell in love with Canines With a Cause when I attended their fundraiser in Park City, and learned of their compassionate giving of time energy, and yes., love, to our brave veterans. These men and women serve our country and return often so emotionally damaged. To see a sweet dog, rescued from the pound, trained by CWC volunteerrs who are professional trainers, and given to a Veteran, to ease their anxiety levels, and know they have a companion who loves them is just beautiful! God's own work done by CWC. I plan to attend and give each year.

Alan C Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/30/2012

I have been involved with the animal welfare community for years and have seen many organizations. I'm very impressed with the Canines With A Cause organization. Their idea to bring our veterans much needed help by matching them with a dog that needs a home is brilliant. Thank you CWAC for providing a much needed service to those that have served our country and our animal friends that provide so much unconditional love to us.

Walt M. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

11/28/2012

This is to add more information to what my friend, Myron Peterson, had to say. I'm a Certified Peer Support Specialist, CPSS. I have talked to Canines With a Cause, and what they have to offer is much more. I have refered Vets there from the SLC, Utah VA Hospital. What doesn't get mentioned as their stories are being told, is that their services are free. They will find the right dog to match your needs, free, help you with the needed training for them to be a Service Dog, free, and depending on your circumstances, help you with other needs. Canines With a Cause needs to be made a Cause that everyone is aware of, be they Vet or cilvilian. If it hadn't been for Myron, I would still not know where to send Vets that really could use help with their MH issues. So one and all. tell everyone about them so that they are aware of the services available, be it friends, Doctor's, Therapist, or whoever. It's a much needed Service, and I greatly appreciate everything they are accomplishing. (Editors note; if any of this information is not as stated, please let me know so that I relay the correct information.) :)

JoAnn O. Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/28/2012

I have always been a huge supporter of animal adoption and the saving of animals. My brother is a Captain in the Army, so the helping of veterans is a personal passion of mine as well. Our veterans are returning home with many personal issues and changes in their lives. To connect them with a companion that will provide them with unconditional love is the perfect idea for both.

1

Myron P. Client Served

Rating: 5

11/28/2012

When I was referred to Cath King's organization, Canines with a Cause (CWAC), I was looking for a dog which would help me cope with my PTSD. I have suffered from severe PTSD symptoms and knew that animals provide many helpful things to vets like me. Also, I did already have a dog named Timmy who is 14 years old and showing signs of deteriorating health and was losing his zest for life. Aware that he was likely to pass away in the near future, I feared that losing his companionship while living alone would be a devastating change. I felt that if I had another companion that I have bonded with, That event would be less painful. Also, there was a chance that bringing a new young dog into Timmy's life could bring to him new vitality.

I was referred to Cathy by my Equine Therapist Dr. Laurie Sullivan-Sakaeda when I asked her if she knew how I could obtain a PTSD certified service dog. Cathy And I spoke about my needs abd the needs of Timmy--my loyalty to Timmy gave him veto power over the choice of a dog. She already gad a dog in mind.

Unfortunately, the fiest choice was not successful because the puppy's size and energy bewildered Timmy. It was decided that a small breed and slightly older and calmer dog was necessary. Then came Puck, as he is now named. They were introduced to each other in a large quiet room and allowed to interract. It seemed the match might be a success. Puck was very docile, though he growled at first meeting.

Puck is a little Chihuahua like dog. He was very shut-down when I got him. It didn't take long for him to open up in my home with just me and Timmy. I was very careful to only show him love and patience so as to not set him back. When his personality revealed itself as he felt safe, I gave him the name Puck from Shakespeare's misunderstood and mischievous character from one of his plays.

I actually find those personalty traits in him endearing. It gives me plenty of opportunities ti observe, write about, and photograph his odd behaviors. It seems he is revealing something new almost daily.

The relationship with Timmy is definitely beneficial. Timmy seems to always be happy and more engaged now. He has resumed some of the puppy-like behaviors he used to have (some not mentionable in polite company). Timmy is almost completely deaf abd could not greet ne at the door anymore because he couldn't hear me come in. Now Puck sits on the window sill and waits for me and his bark is loud enough to alert Timmy. Now I have two dogs that greet me with enthusiasm when I come home.

As for a help for help coping with my PTSD, animals like my dogs and even the horses I work with are always about being in the moment. PTSD is an illness that rudely takes one out of the moment into a painful past. Anything that help keep one in the present or helps bring one ba.ck to the present when in a dark place is of great help.

CWAC has provided food for my dog when I was in need, access to good discounted veterinary care, and volunteers to care for my dogs when I was incapacitated. I believe Cathys organization has brought a new light into my life and given me a sense that my service was neither in vain nor forgotten. I have a greater trust for the inherent decency of most people as witnessed in the work of CWAC. Thank you Cathy.

stevejp Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/26/2012

They do some amazing things with the dogs that have really helped people with disabilities. They are saving the lives of many people and animals at the same time. Awesome job!!!!!!

JMEM Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

11/26/2012

I work with veterans everyday and recently became involved with Canines with a Cause. I have witnessed veterans improve greatly when they become involved in this program. Veterans feel connected to the work they are doing with their dog, it brings meaning and hope to their lives. The staff at CWAC is outstanding and have so much to offer both veterans and dogs. Thank you for the amazing work you are doing!

Awenger Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/24/2012

Great nonprofit, combines my favorite passions Dogs and Veterans. The service they provide is life changing for recipients and volunteers. I've been able to connect with some amazing people and I found my best friend and companion through this orginzation.

rousselux General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

11/24/2012

I know of this charity only through Facebook as I'm not resident in the US, but that's my point: I wanted to support it by buying some merchandise; it was the first time they'd sent anything to my location, but they went more than the extra mile to advise me about the goods and to get them to me quickly and safely. More than can be said for many such organisations, even 'professionally-run' charities, for want of a better terms, as I believe most people in CWAC are volunteers. The work they do, which I know a little about from their Facebook posts, is excellent and vital. They never give up on a dog or a human.

MadDog1003 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

11/23/2012

Canines with a Cause provides a valuable service to the communities of Northern Utah and Southern Idaho. CWAC not only saves the lives of shelter animals who may otherwise perish to be overlooked in a shelter and brings out their best qualities and strengths through training and love, they also help save the lives of veterans who struggle with PTSD and other disorders. The dogs in the CWAC program flourish, often going from the lowly shelter pup who was given up or found as a stray, to a top performer when it comes to behavior and service. CWAC saves two lives with each adoption and is changing more lives every day.

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