Dear Friend,

Training shelter dogs and rescue dogs to become Assistance Dogs has always been a part of our mission, and continues to be. I wanted to share a story with you about one of our newest rescue dogs on campus, Sushi. 

Kim Hyde, DBL's West Program Director is always on the lookout for shelter dogs who might have a bright future as an Assistance Dog. Recently, Kim found Sushi, a 1 year old mini schnauzer, posted on Facebook Marketplace in Washington. Kim met the owners in a pet store parking lot. Sushi had fleas, matted fur and worms, and seemed to act older than her age. 

However, Kim noticed that Sushi seemed social, was alert to sounds, and LOVED treats - all great traits for a future Assistance Dog! Sushi's owners had recently lost their jobs and housing, and acknowledged that Sushi needed more help than they could offer her. 

We immediated treated Sushi for fleas and worms and put her on a healthy diet. Within a week she seemed to be feeling much better. Sushi has passed all of her initial training evaluations and has begun her format training. 

We've already been able to change Sushi's life for the better, and we can't wait to see the lives she changes in the future!

Thank you for your continued monthly support! You make a big impact on people, and dogs, in need.

Sincerely,

Bryan Williams
CEO, Dogs for Better Lives

EMERALD UPDATE

It's time for another pup-date from puppy-in-training, Emerald! 

5 month old Emerald has been with repeat Puppy Raisers Megan and Claire since June 1st and is working hard, while also having some fun adventures and new experiences! 

"Emerald has been doing great! She was so excited to see her brothers when she return from staying at the DBL campus for 18 days while we were on our trip to Europe. I know she had a great time there and had many fun outings - and even a couple of visits to the farm! Claire has been continuing to work with Emerald on longer settling periods when out in public. We are starting to expect more out of Emerald as she is a very smart girl! Emerald loves all people and dogs that she meets. She loves going on her outings," said Megan.

We'll be back next month with all of Emerald's latest adventures as she navigates her journey to become a life-changing Assistance Dog.

Other DBL News

Expanding DBL's Pawprint in California

In August, DBL launched it's third Regional Advisory Board (formerly known as Young Professionals Board) in California. Hana Kim of San Ramon (Northern CA) and Brooke Sutter of Santa Monica (Southern CA) are the first two members, and are bringing diverse professional backgrounds and experience to their volunteer work with DBL. Regional Advisory Boards play a key role in raising awareness about DBL and advocating for community support and education for Assistance Dogs. Learn more about our Regional Advisory Boards.

Puppy in Training Chowder's Namesake Toys Help Kids

Every child that comes to Juliette’s House, a Child Abuse Intervention Center in Oregon, gets to pick out a stuffed animal and a blanket to take home with them. Chowder's Puppy Raiser,Tammy, recently donated little stuffed Macs (yellow labs) and little stuffed Chowders (black labs) for them to choose from. The kids are going to love them! In the photo to the right, DBL puppy in training Chowder shows off his namesake toy with his friend, Facility Dog Mac.

Certified Hearing Dog Cookie Update

Our team recently followed up with David and Certified Hearing Dog Cookie. After 7 years, they are still doing amazing together! Cookie works the alarm clock, oven timer, phone, door knock, and the smoke alarm. David loves Cookie dearly and is so happy she is in his life. He mentioned that Cookie is amazing and still does all her obedience skills with such enthusiasm. He even got to show off Cookie's recall and she ran so fast! Way to go Cookie! 

DBL Falmouth Road Race Team Raises $21,000 for Assistance Dogs

DBL was so honored to be a part of the 50th Anniversary of the Falmouth Road Race on August 21st. As a new member of the Cape Cod community, we were excited to work with 10 runners who fundraised to be a part of our team. A HUGE thank you to our amazing fundraising runners and donors that helped us raise over $21,000!