Veterans with Disabilities

A service animal can make a huge difference in a person’s life. Both the companionship and the service they provide can be life altering. DAC NW has worked with Canine Companions in the past and it is a great organization that raises, trains, and then donates the dogs to their new owners.

That is the story for Phillip, a person that lives with Fragile X and requires extra support. Phillip received his new service dog, Kirstienne, who has helped him regulate his emotions in a healthier way. Here is his service dog journey…

The dog Phillip received from Canine Companions is trained in 40 different commands.

Kirstienne can help “tug” blankets for making the bed, remove socks and help remove a coat. She can “push” to close drawers and doors, tap the automated door button, and she “gets” and “gives” items off the floor which helps in putting away laundry and games. She can be told to “leash” and if the leash is on the floor, she will pick it up and hand it to you. She also does “cover,” “up,” and “visit” for three different deep pressure therapy commands which are calming.

To get the dog, Phillip and his mother had to go to Santa Rosa, CA twice and pay for their costs, but the service dog costs nothing. And they had free lodging on the campus for the two-week in-person training provided at no cost.

The class that was together for the two week training has such a good time together they have planned a future trip together for camping, swimming and fishing. Canine Companions has a Christmas mailing list so they can stay in touch. Phillip was thrilled to receive 85 Christmas cards from across the nation.

You can learn more about Canine Companions here, and see ways you can be involved. They accept donations, and utilize volunteers all over to help raise the dogs. And if you are interested in how a service dog could change your life be sure to contact them. They provide veterans service dogs free of charge and empower veterans to regain physical independence, pride and hope.