Reflecting on the accomplishments of the recent three months (April to June 2024), Dogs for Better Lives is filled with gratitude. The consistent support of our donors and volunteers has been pivotal in helping us improve the lives of individuals with disabilities through our Assistance Dogs. Join us as we celebrate some of the most significant milestones from this past quarter.
More dogs entering our programs
DBL Breeder Dogs Cider and Frosty both had puppies in the last few months, 17 in total, and these puppies are now with their volunteer Puppy Raisers across the country. Our Breeding Program has grown significantly this fiscal year, and in the past three months we have added 2 additional Breeder Dogs. These exceptional dogs have ideal genetics, health, and temperament and will bring the next generations of Service Dogs into the world. Through the growth of our Breeding Program, we will have more dogs coming into our training program and be able to serve the needs of the individuals on our waiting list.
In addition to the Breeding Program’s growth, our From Shelter to Service Dog program continues to train 7 former shelter dogs for their future Service Dog careers!
Growing number of active teams
With recent placements, we have now reached 152 teams in 32 states. With recent placements, we have now reached 152 teams in 32 states. Each of these dogs, as well as the dogs who were career-changed, receive our lifetime commitment. We maintain an active relationship with our clients and dogs to ensure that our client’s needs are being met and our dogs are happy and healthy.
Donor support makes it possible for us to continue this high level of support, no matter where our clients are living in the U.S.
Life-changing Impact
The impact of your support is best exemplified through the heartwarming stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed.
Lauren and Hearing Assistance Dog Ganache
“Prior to Ganache, I found myself rushing through grocery shopping and avoiding town outings in general. But Ganache is so confident in town that she quickly eased my anxiety because I grew to trust her ears to keep us safe – from alerting to noises happening to her spatial awareness of people walking up behind us.” Read their story.
Tami and Facility Dog Houston
“To anyone considering a facility dog, I would highly recommend it. The comfort and support that Houston gives every person who enters our building is invaluable and would never be able to be provided by another individual.” Read their story here.
Meet the Dogs
Five Puppies Graduate from Prison Puppy Raising Program at Ross Correctional Institution
In May, DBL celebrated as the first five puppies graduated from the Prison Puppy Raising Program at Ross Correctional Institution (RCI). The occasion was marked in late March by a heartwarming family day where handlers proudly showcased the program puppies’ abilities and skills they have been working on for the past several months.
Recent milestones:
- The first graduate, Alder, came to our campus in January to begin his training program, and was placed with his client as a Facility Dog in late June.
- Five more puppies graduated in May and returned to our campuses to begin their professional Service Dog training.
- The next three Program Puppies were placed at RCI in May, and are already excelling in the Prison Puppy Raising Program.
Thank you to our partners at RCI and the wonderful handlers in the program who dedicated their hearts and time towards raising these future Service Dogs!
A HEARTFELT THANK YOU to all our amazing supporters!
Your dedication and generosity have driven the remarkable achievements of this past quarter and laid the groundwork for even more transformative impacts as we enter a new fiscal year and beyond. All of us at Dogs for Better Lives extend our heartfelt gratitude for your steadfast commitment to our Service Dogs, clients, and mission.
Each and every donation and volunteer hour helps us support our clients and dogs, positively impacting the lives of those we serve. We are immensely grateful for your partnership and will be eager to celebrate further accomplishments with you in the coming quarter!
