As we reflect on the accomplishments of the past fiscal quarter (October to December 2023) Dogs for Better Lives (DBL) is filled with gratitude. The support from our dedicated donors and volunteers has allowed us to achieve significant milestones, bringing forth a positive transformation in the lives of individuals with disabilities through life-changing Assistance Dogs. Let’s take a moment to express our heartfelt thanks and delve into some of the biggest milestones from last quarter.
145 Active Teams
We are supporting 145 active Assistance Dog Teams. The teams, spanning our Hearing, Autism, and Facility Dog programs, represent the tangible difference we can make when we come together with a shared purpose. Each dog we’ve placed has a lifetime commitment from Dogs for Better Lives. You can learn more about what goes into that commitment here.
Placement success rate
Your contributions have enabled us to maintain a remarkable 69% placement rate since July 1, 2023. This success is attributed to the quality of dogs brought into our program, sourced through our breeding program, our new From Shelter to Service Dog program, as well as partnerships with Guide Dog organizations. With 61 dogs currently in our care, including 36 with dedicated Puppy Raisers, we are paving the way for future placements that will positively impact the lives of individuals in need.
Life-changing Impact
The impact of your support is best exemplified through the heartwarming stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed.
Joanell and Home Hearing Dog Charlie
“It’s really great having Charlie in my life – especially at night. I take my cochlears out in the evening, and he will let me know if there is anything going on. Charlie is the greatest gift I could receive in my lifetime. Not only is he a great working dog but a loyal companion.” Read their story here.
Mackenzie and Facility Dog Archie
“Since Facility Dog Archie joined the CWU Police Department, he has constantly made an impact on morale within our department and staff around CWU. Several departments have requested to meet Archie, and it is clear that he helps make everyone’s day better.” Follow Facility Dog Archie on Instagram to keep up with his adventures.
Expansion to Autism Assistance Dog Program
In October 2023, we introduced significant changes to our Autism Assistance Dog Program. These changes make it possible for DBL to support more families through our program. Learn more about the program and find the application here.
Program changes include:
- Broadening the age range for children 4-12 years old, allowing us to serve more families.
- Removing the requirement for a fenced-in yard, eliminating a costly barrier to receive an Assistance Dog.
- Removing the requirement for in-person interviews to reduce stress on the child and family.
THANK YOU to our donors and volunteers!
Your commitment and passion have not only shaped the success of the past quarter but have also laid the foundation for future placements and lives changed. Dogs for Better Lives is immensely grateful for your continued support, and we look forward to sharing more successes with you in the next quarter!
As we celebrate the impact made in the last fiscal quarter, let us remember that every contribution, no matter how small, plays a crucial role in making a positive difference in the lives of those we serve.
