Over the past three months, Dogs for Better Lives has continued to experience growth thanks to the consistent support of our donors and volunteers. From July to September 2024, their contributions have been pivotal in advancing our mission to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities through the placement of highly trained Assistance Dogs. As we move forward, we celebrate some of the most significant milestones from this past quarter and look ahead to the lasting impact we are creating together.
Breeding Program Growth
This quarter marked exciting growth for our breeding program, as we selected Riley as our sixth breeder dog—the most breeder dogs we’ve ever had in DBL history. This milestone will enable an exponential increase in Service Dog placements in the coming years, helping us meet the rising demand.
In another highlight, Autumn welcomed her third litter with DBL, consisting of eight healthy yellow lab puppies. These puppies are growing quickly and will be heading to their Puppy Raisers in Q2. A huge thanks to Autumn’s dedicated breeder caretaker, Nancy, in California!
The growth of our breeding program is essential as we work to meet the needs of our expanding wait list. With demand for Service Dogs continuing to be high, it’s crucial that we remain focused on training and placing as many highly skilled service dogs as possible in the years ahead.
Additionally, our From Shelter to Service Dog program is playing a key role in increasing the number of dogs in our program, and we’re excited to be placing our third dog from that program in Q2.
Growing Number of Active Service Dog Teams
Last quarter, our active team total continued to grow. We are now working with 154 teams across the country. As part of our lifetime commitment to every dog we rescue or breed and the people we serve, we conducted follow-up visits nationwide to support our teams and address any needs. Additionally, we placed several Service Dogs with clients in Q1, creating life-changing partnerships between our deserving clients and dogs. Our lifetime commitment is made possible because of donor support – thank you!
Guardian Society Growth Leaving a Legacy of Support
Our Guardian Society continues to grow, now with 143 members who are committed to making a long-term impact on the lives of dogs and people with disabilities. These generous individuals have chosen to include Dogs for Better Lives in their will or trust, helping to fund our endowment. This vital endowment ensures that 100% of every donation we receive goes directly to our programmatic services, as it covers our administrative costs.
The forward-thinking support of our Guardian Society members allows DBL to plan for the future with confidence. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has chosen to leave a legacy with DBL, ensuring that we can continue changing lives for years to come.
Life-changing Impact
The impact of your support is best exemplified through the heartwarming stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed.
Stephanie and Facility Dog Cliff
Facility Dog Cliff brings a smile to everyone’s face. It’s amazing how quickly some individuals begin to feel more comfortable in the room while he’s been with me. Read their story here.
Laurel and Hearing Assistance Dog Fiddler
‘Tm calmer knowing that noise will be detected by Fiddler. Before, I would hear a noise and wonder, what was that?! Where’s it coming from? I couldn’t relax. Now, I have confidence that Fiddler will alert me” Read their story.
A HEARTFELT THANK YOU to all our amazing supporters!
Your dedication and generosity have fueled the success of this past quarter, laying a strong foundation for even more life-changing impacts in the future. All of us at Dogs for Better Lives are deeply grateful for your ongoing commitment to our Service Dogs, clients, and mission.
Every donation and volunteer hour contributes directly to supporting our clients and dogs, creating a lasting positive impact for those we serve. We are truly thankful for your partnership and look forward to celebrating even more achievements with you in the coming months!
