Dear Friend,
Last month, we shared the exciting news that Autism Assistance Dog Star had passed her certification with her trainer, Kane. This month, we’re thrilled to tell you where her journey has taken her next—home.
|
|
|---|
| Star was recently placed with Jacob's family in Vermont, and from the very start, it was clear she was exactly where she was meant to be. Jacob, who’s used to foster dogs coming and going, couldn’t stop saying “I love you, Star” during placement. He knew she was there to stay.
Thanks to your ongoing support as a Pack Member, Star is now by Jacob’s side as his trusted Service Dog and best friend.
She’s already bringing comfort and calm when emotions run high and is working on her skills like spin, settle, wave, and touch—all while deepening her bond with Jacob.
From all of us at Dogs for Better Lives: thank you for helping make this connection possible. Because of you, lives are changing every single month
With deep gratitude,
Bryan Williams
CEO, Dogs for Better Lives |
| | Jacob with Autism Assistance Dog Star |
|
|
|---|
| 🎉 Welcome to our newest Pack Members! 🎉
Karen |
|
|---|
| | | It's time for a pup-date from Rocky!
Big news—Rocky will soon be placed as a Certified Hearing Dog!
His journey started at 8 weeks old when he was placed with his Puppy Raiser, Jenna. You may remember her and her kids taking him on fun adventures. Because of their dedication, Rocky arrived at professional training with a great start.
Over the last few months, trainer Certified Assistance Dog Trainer, Eli helped fine-tune Rocky’s sound alert skills and shape him into a confident, reliable Hearing Assistance Dog. Together, they worked through complex scenarios—like responding to alarms during sleep or alerting to phone calls—and practiced remaining focused in public spaces.
While Rocky waits for his placement later this month, he will continue to work on his skills and soak up all the attention at our West Campus!
Check back next month for another update from Rocky!
|
|
|---|
| | Summer Impact Report
This summer, your support helped us reach a record 166 active Service Dog teams across the country and began training our first dogs in the From Shelter to Service Dog program in Atlanta. We also welcomed 23 new puppies into the world and celebrated our volunteers, whose dedication powers every success. Read the full Impact Report to see how your generosity is changing lives.
|
| |
|---|
| | Dogs for Better Lives Earns Perfect 100% Score from Charity Navigator
Dogs for Better Lives has earned a perfect 100-point score from Charity Navigator, placing us among the most trustworthy and effective nonprofits in the country. This top rating reflects our strong financial health, accountability, and transparency—so you can feel confident that your support is making a real impact. Learn more about what this honor means and how it helps us place more life-changing Service Dogs.
|
| |
|---|
| | Hearing Dog Poppy: Love, Loyalty, and Life-Saving Alerts
Before Certified Hearing Dog Poppy came into her life, Allison struggled with the daily challenges of living with hearing loss—missing alarms, burning food, and feeling isolated. Everything changed when Poppy arrived. In this heartfelt story, Allison shares how her bond with Poppy has brought not only greater safety and independence, but also confidence and connection. Read the full story of their powerful partnership.
|
| |
|---|
| | Day of Pawsitivity Returns on August 26th
Join us on August 26th to celebrate National Dog Day and support our mission of lifelong care for Service Dog Teams. Donations will be matched up to $10,000, and we’re giving out sticker sheets to thank our donors. As we prepare for this fun campaign, we’re collecting YOUR joyful, silly, tender dog moments to share with the world.
Email us with your photos and stories to be a part of this fun campaign at marketing@dogsforbetterlives.org |
| |
|---|
| | |
|
