Behind-the-scenes update on all the happenings at DBL, plus an update from future Service Dog, Halligan
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Dear Friend,

Because of Pack Members like you, stories like Jozlyn and Rocky’s become possible. Your ongoing support helps extraordinary dogs and remarkable people find each other—and build partnerships that change lives. Thank you for being such an important part of this journey.

You may remember Certified Hearing Dog Rocky from his days as a Pack Member puppy. Recently, he had the honor of walking across the graduation stage alongside Jozlyn as she earned her B.S. in Zoology from Oregon State University.

Since being placed together last year, Rocky has become an invaluable partner, alerting Jozlyn to sounds like the oven timer, dropped keys, and someone calling her name. Along the way, he even picked up a new skill: alerting her to approaching bicycles on campus.

We couldn’t be prouder of all that Jozlyn and Rocky have accomplished together.

Jozlyn and Rocky

Their story is a reflection of the caring community that surrounds every dog and client we serve. Thank you for making a direct impact through your Pack Membership and helping create moments like these.

With gratitude,

Gwen Dudek
Interim CEO, Dogs for Better Lives

🎉 Welcome to our newest Pack Members! 🎉

Adele, Carol


HALLIGAN'S PUP-DATE

July pack 2026

Halligan is settling into life on campus and making the most of every opportunity to learn. This month, he joined fellow Service Dogs in training on an outing to Old Navy, where he practiced important public access skills while exploring a new environment. He even took a moment to pose with the store’s mascot! Back on campus, Halligan has been enjoying plenty of playtime with his new friends Fraser, Liam, Doris, and Warrick, balancing hard work with some well-earned fun.

Adventures and friendships

As Halligan works through the early phases of professional training, his trainer, Dana, has been focusing on foundational skills that will support his future success. Together, they are working on down-stays and place—two essential behaviors that help Service Dogs remain calm, focused, and ready to assist their future partners in a variety of settings.

Building skills for the future

Every new experience helps Halligan grow in confidence and maturity as he works toward his goal of becoming a Service Dog. Whether he's practicing his training, making new friends, or taking on adventures in the community, Halligan continues to impress us with his enthusiasm and willingness to learn.

Stay tuned for the next update on Halligan’s journey!


OTHER DBL NEWS

How Hearing Dog Emerald Changed Everything for Joyce

Long-time Pack members may recall following Emerald's journey from puppyhood through her Service Dog training, cheering her on every step of the way. Now, we're excited to share an update on Emerald and Joyce. Thanks to the support of Pack Members, Joyce found independence and new connection through her Hearing Dog, Emerald. Read their story.


A Match Built for Adventure

When Max applied for a hearing dog, he was looking for greater safety and independence. Today, Certified Hearing Dog London is already helping him stay connected on hiking trails, alerting him to important sounds, and giving him confidence at home and on the road. Read their story.


Toffee and Queenie Advancing their Skills

Texas From Shelter to Service Dogs Toffee and Queenie are working hard, learning that cues aren't always meant for them. When their names are called before a cue, they know it's their turn to respond; helping build focus, impulse control, and teamwork. You can see from the photo that their focus is strong! 

Our From Shelter to Service Dog Teams in Atlanta and Texas are giving second chances to amazing dogs!

Queenie and Toffee

The Dog Days of Summer

Summer temperatures are no match for Finn! During a training break at our Northeast Campus in Falmouth, he cooled off with a refreshing dip in the pool while keeping a favorite toy close by. 

Even playtime helps future service dogs build confidence, focus, and adaptability for the important work ahead.

 

FINN pooltime
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See past issues of the monthly Pack newsletter: dogsforbetterlives.org/pack-member

 

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