Life Changing Partnerships
Assistance dogs support people with a wide range of needs—including physical disabilities, vision impairment, autism, ADHD, seizure disorders, and emotional or developmental challenges. These dogs are trained not only for tasks like retrieving dropped items, opening doors, or pressing emergency buttons—but also to provide calm, grounding support during moments of anxiety or overstimulation.
In schools, facility dogs help children build confidence and reading fluency by offering a nonjudgmental presence. For those with autism, dogs can interrupt repetitive behaviors, prevent bolting, or track someone who has wandered. They may alert during seizures, retrieve medication, and offer physical support for balance and mobility.
The bond between person and dog is powerful—and life-changing. The stories below offer a glimpse into how these partnerships make a lasting difference.
Client Stories
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Nate + Remi
Nate is a survivor of the tragedy that took place on the campus of Michigan State University on February 13, 2024. Nate’s service dog Remi will provide support and comfort as he moves forward.
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Megan + Axel
“Because of Axel I feel confident and independent enough to go to college this year (2022). I wouldn’t have gone without him. Hail to Pitt!”
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Paul + Amos
“Amos has given me confidence and stability. He has saved me multiple times. Amos assists my mom with my seizure care when I have a seizure by retrieving my medication and magnet for my treatment.”
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Lakin + Kato
“My favorite things to do with Kato are to teach him fun tricks like reading and knowing different colors. It has giving me something to work for.”
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Alexis + Riley
“The most fond memory I shared with my service dog was the first time we met. He kissed my face so sweetly. It was love at first sight.”
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Vanessa + Spencer
“Since getting my service dog, Spencer, I have had less seizures and he has made me so happy!”
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Samantha + Avex
“When I first saw Avex come through the doors of the hotel I knew it was going to be him. When he got to me I didn’t want to let him go. I know and knew then that it would be me and him forever.”
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Vinnie + Maddie
“Having Maddie allows me to feel more confident and allows me to be more independent.”
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Martin + Abby
“Having a service dog that cares about me and that I care so much about has resulted in a constant positive motivation in my life”
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Raquel + Bentley
“Bentley has allowed me to live a more normal life. He keeps me safe.”
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Wendy + Tango
“Tango has helped make me feel calmer and safer, even in my own home. I love taking her with me to volunteer.”
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Fonda + Dawson
“The most fond memory I shared with my service dog was our first night in the hotel when he was given to me. I turned my back on him in the bed to get him to go to sleep. He nuzzled his nose into my neck and sighed… I was taken. He was mine!”
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Tammy + Nala
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without Canines for Change and all the trainers. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. And a very special thank you to Nikki for never giving up on me.”
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Angelo + Raisin
“Raisin has made my life a million times better. Even in the hospital during Covid, having her by my side made me feel safe and less alone.”
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Stephen + Gibbs
“Gibbs isn’t just my seizure service dog—he’s my life-saving dog. When I had a severe allergic reaction, he activated my lifeline and stayed by my side through it all.”
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Laure + Miles
“When I started working with Miles as a volunteer, my seizures began to improve—and soon, he became my service dog. My life has been so much easier with Miles by my side.”
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Diana + Loki
Loki has given me confidence and brought joy into my life. We like to go for walks, play ball, snuggle and watch movies. The moment we met, I knew we were going to be best friends forever.
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Lucas + Willette
“Willette handled everything at Disney—from loud crowds to rides—with total confidence. It was the trip of a lifetime, and we’re so grateful for such a great dog.”
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Daniel + Lucas
“Lucas has given me more freedom to go out knowing he will always be there for me (support). We go to parks and go bowling. Going into the ocean at VA Beach is my favorite memory.”
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Jillian + Roxy
“My favorite activity with Roxy is cuddling together. When I brought Roxy to theater camp with me is my fondest memory. Roxy has made it possible for me to regain control over my life. “
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Skylar + Henry
“My fondest memories of Henry are when I cuddle with him. Playing with Henry and taking walks are my favorite activities to do with him. Henry has given me more freedom to go out on my own.”
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Tesia + Atlas
“Atlas has taught me how valuable life is. Not only by having to take care of myself but taking care of him as well. Life moves by fast, so we have to plan out what we want to achieve and organize it in the best way possible to make those goals come to life.”