Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, Summer 2026 has been a season of growth for Dogs for Better Lives, helping us expand our Service Dog training programs, support more Service Dog teams, and create life-changing partnerships between people and dogs. Every milestone reached this quarter reflects our mission to provide professionally trained Hearing Dogs, Autism Assistance Dogs, and Facility Dogs that increase independence and improve quality of life.
Service Dog Impact by the Numbers
This summer, donor and volunteer support helped us reach significant milestones in our Service Dog programs:
- 178 active Service Dog teams nationwide, the highest number in Dogs for Better Lives history.
- 49 puppies training with volunteer Puppy Raisers, meaning the next generation of Service Dogs have already begun their journey towards changing lives.
- 33% more shelter dogs entering our From Shelter to Service Dog programs since June 2025
These achievements mean more individuals and families have access to highly trained assistance dogs that provide safety, confidence, companionship, and greater independence.
How a Hearing Dog Helps Nicole Live More Independently
For Dogs for Better Lives client Nicole, Certified Hearing Dog Freya is much more than a companion. She is a trusted partner who helps Nicole navigate daily life with greater confidence.
“Freya is my best friend and keeps me safe! One of my favorite tasks in the summer is how she lets me know someone is coming when we’re hiking. It gives me the confidence to get out on my own and enjoy nature again!”
Specially trained Hearing Dogs help people with hearing loss by alerting them to important sounds and increasing awareness of their surroundings. These Service Dog partnerships help clients enjoy greater freedom, safety, and independence while participating more fully in everyday life.
From Shelter Dog to Service Dog
One of the most exciting areas of growth at Dogs for Better Lives is our From Shelter to Service Dog program. Through partnerships with Atlanta Humane Society in Atlanta, Georgia, and Operation Kindness in Carrollton, Texas, promising shelter dogs are evaluated, trained, and prepared for careers as Service Dogs.
Since June 2025, the number of shelter dogs participating in these programs has increased by 33%, creating more opportunities for dogs to make a lasting difference in the lives of people with disabilities.
This innovative approach not only gives shelter dogs a second chance but also helps address the growing need for trained Service Dogs across the country.
Trust in Impact
Dogs for Better Lives prides itself on being fiscally responsible, fully transparent, and is a top-rated 4-star nonprofit with Charity Navigator, 11 years running. And 100% of donor dollars support programmatic services – thanks to a long-standing endowment. Learn more about our 100% funding model here.
