Dear Friend,
We have a lifetime commitment to every dog that comes into our care - it's one of our core values. What many might not know is that it really does take a community to train, place, and support a Service Dog. When a dog becomes a DBL dog - whether they are placed with a client or not - there have been many caring and skilled individuals helping to make their future career a reality. A recent example of this is Certified Hearing Dog Chowder.
Chowder started his journey as part of Numo's litter in late 2021, which DBL hosted as part of the ABC Co-op. After some initial time on campus, he made his way to his raiser, Julie, in Portland. Throughout the year, Julie and Chowder embarked on their journey together with invaluable support and guidance from our Puppy Program team and volunteer Stacie - a long-time Puppy Raiser.
When Chowder returned to the Central Point campus for formal training in January of this year, he teamed up with Certified Assistance Dog Trainer, Emily. In August, Chowder's hard work and training paid off when he was placed in Oregon as a Certified Hearing Dog.
Chowder's journey is a testament to the incredible teamwork and commitment of everyone involved, from his early days with Numo's litter to his formal training with Emily. Chowder is now out in the world, making a real difference in his handler's life, thanks to the unwavering dedication of his trainers, staff, and volunteers.
Chowder has made an impact on everyone along the way, but the biggest impact yet is with his new client. Thank you for making placements like his possible!
With gratitude,
Bryan Williams
CEO, Dogs for Better Lives |
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| The latest pup-date from Assistance Dog in Training, Emerald
Emerald continues her training in our Hearing Assistance Dog Program at our West Campus! Emerald is making great progress in the program, and got to visit with her Puppy Raisers, Megan and Claire, this month!
Eli said, "Emerald is doing so well! Now that she knows two sounds, she is working on telling those two sounds apart and is ready to add in a third sound. She is learning how to hold responsibility and alert her handler even after it’s been half an hour since the sound went off. We are working on her gear sensitivity and crate training and she is making progress! She prefers the bandana over the vest and wears it well! In obedience, she is eager and keeps good focus even with other trainers working their dogs in the same room. In her downtime, she has enjoyed running around in our grass yards before the weather gets too cold."
Keep up the great work, Emerald! Check back next month for an another update in Emerald's journey! |
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| | 10 years of 4-star Ratings with Charity Navigator
We are thrilled to announce that Dogs for Better Lives (DBL) has once again achieved Charity Navigator's prestigious 4-star rating, marking our 10th consecutive year of excellence!
This recognition is an incredible honor, as only 2% of nonprofits receive consistent acclaim from America's most respected charity watchdog. Our commitment to financial responsibility and ethical practices has set us apart, ensuring that your donations are used to make a real difference in the lives of those we serve. Read the news article.
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| | A Year of Growth - Fiscal Year 2022-23
DBL's most recent Fiscal Year 2022-23 was a year filled with moments that have touched hearts, transformed lives, and reinforced our commitment to our Assistance Dogs and the people they serve.
We saw exciting new program launches last fiscal year, including the launch of the From Shelter to Service Program in Texas and Prison Puppy Raising Program in Ohio. Both initiatives help lay the foundation for DBL to continue to grow serve more people. Check out our infographic that highlights a few of our key milestones and successes from last fiscal year.
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| | Catching up with Certified Hearing Dog Belle
Lacie and Certified Hearing Dog, Belle, have been a team for 5 years already! Lacie feels more comfortable and safe when Belle is with them in public. Belle is also really goofy and Lacie enjoys her personality a lot.
Recently, Lacie and Belle traveled by plane to visit family. Lacie said that Belle was very well behaved and an easy travel companion.
Belle is alerts Lacie to the door bell, door knock, alarm clock, smoke alarm, oven timer, and name call. When asked what Lacie would like to express to our donors, they said "Thank you so much for changing my life and making me feel more comfortable and feel more safe. It's wonderful."
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| | National Service Dog Month Recap
September's National Service Dog Month was a great opportunity to connect with people all over the country about our favorite topic – Service Dogs.
Our Regional Advisory Boards planned and hosted outreach events, including "Barks and Brews" in Seattle, San Francisco, southern Oregon, and California. These gatherings provided opportunities for people to come together, enjoy some beverages, and learn more about Service Dogs. We also shared ways people can get involved with Dogs for Better Lives. Thank you to all the volunteers who worked tirelessly to plan and put on great events – we couldn’t have done it without you!
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