Imagine not being able to reach a light switch, pick up your keys when you drop them, or open a cabinet door. Then imagine having a dog that could do all of that for you, and more…

Canine Companions for Independence provides assistance dogs to people with developmental or physical disabilities who can demonstrate that a Canine Companion will enhance their independence or quality of life. CCI dogs are provided at virtually no cost to the graduates. All the expenses of breeding, raising, and training a Canine Companion is funded through private donations.

How to Apply

To apply for a Canine Companion, contact your nearest Regional Training Center and request an application packet. You will receive an overview of CCI’s team programs and an application to complete. An applicant coordinator will review your application and determine if, and what type of, an assistance dog best suits your needs.

Selected applicants will be invited to attend a two week Team Training course.

Types of Assistance Teams

• Service Teams — Adults with physical disabilities who work with a Canine Companion to extend their abilities and utilize the dog to perform physical tasks such as pulling a wheelchair and retrieving dropped items.

• Skilled Companion Teams — A three-part team including a child or adult with physical, developmental or emotional disabilities, a primary caretaker, and a Canine Companion who helps with physical tasks and creates a bond of companionship, affection and love.

• Facility Teams — Adults who work as rehabilitation professionals, caregivers or educators and utilize a Canine Companion to improve the mental, physical or emotional health of those in their care.

• Hearing Teams — Adults who are hard of hearing or deaf who use a Canine Companion to alert them to everyday sounds such as doorbells, alarm clocks and smoke alarms.