Canine Companions: Celebrating 50 Years of Transforming Lives with Service Dogs
Canine Companions, a national nonprofit organization, is celebrating its 50th anniversary of providing trained service dogs to individuals in need. The organization has gained attention through a viral animated short film featuring a service dog named Andy, created by award-winning animator Jamy Wheless. The heartwarming story follows Andy as he overcomes obstacles to find his true purpose in life, resonating with millions of viewers online.
Inspired by the mission of Canine Companions, Wheless and his wife have expanded the story of Andy into a children's book, with a portion of the proceeds supporting the organization. They are also actively involved in volunteering with the nonprofit, raising a service dog puppy to eventually assist someone in need. Canine Companions has been providing service animals free of charge to children, veterans, and professionals with disabilities since 1975, with over 8,000 teams graduating from the program in its 50-year history.
Each service dog undergoes rigorous training, starting with a volunteer puppy raiser for basic tasks and socialization, followed by professional training at a regional center for advanced commands. Kate Incremona, a trainer with Canine Companions, highlighted the impact of the animated film and book in showcasing the resilience and transformation of service dogs. The emotional journey depicted in the story resonates with both clients and supporters, illustrating the magic of Canine Companions.
Frederick, a puppy-in-training from the Austin area, joined Incremona at KXAN's studio, representing the future generation of service dogs. The organization's ability to provide fully trained dogs to clients at no cost is made possible through the generosity of donors. The direct impact of these contributions in changing lives is a testament to the power of Canine Companions' mission. To learn more about getting involved with Canine Companions or to watch "Andy: A Dog's Tale" and explore the book, visit their website.