Canine Companions for Independence

Headquartered in Santa Rosa, CA, Canine Companions for Independence® is a national nonprofit organization that provides expertly-trained assistance dogs to children, adults and veterans with disabilities. Founded in 1975, with decades of cutting-edge research and six training centers, Canine Companions is the first and largest assistance dog organization. Canine Companions assistance dogs are trained in over 40 commands to enhance independence including pulling manual wheelchairs, retrieving dropped items, opening doors and alerting to important sounds in the environment. The assistance dogs we breed, raise and train aren’t just the ears, hands and legs of their human partners. They’re also goodwill ambassadors and often, best friends. They open up new opportunities and new possibilities, and spread incredible joy. We unite people with dogs in a powerful program that leads to greater independence and confidence. Mission: Founded in 1975, Canine Companions for Independence® is a non-profit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships.