About Canine Companions

Founded in 1975, Canine Companions® is a non-profit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing expertly trained service dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships.

The service dogs we breed, raise and train aren’t just the ears, hands and legs of their human partners. They’re also goodwill ambassadors and often, their best friends. They open up new opportunities and new possibilities and spread incredible joy. We unite people with dogs in a powerful program that leads to greater independence and confidence.

We provide service dogs for:

Adults – Adults with disabilities are partnered with service or hearing dogs to increase independence.

Children – Service dogs perform physical tasks for children with a range of disabilities to increase independence with support from an adult.

Veterans – Wounded veterans and veterans with disabilities are matched with service dogs for greater independence*.

Professionals – Service dogs are expertly trained and partnered with a working professional in a health care, visitation, criminal justice or education setting.

Leigh & Nerf

Leigh Dittman was born with osteogenesis imperfecta, or brittle bone disease, which makes her bones weaker than normal and more prone to fractures. When it was time for her to apply for college, she knew that she would need physical help. That’s where Service Dog Nerf enters the picture.

”Nerf was the perfect match for me and now, with him by side, I am able to attend The University of Tampa and achieve my college dream. This wouldn’t have happened without Canine Companions.” shares Leigh.

When Leigh is at school or running errands, she needs some physical assistance. Nerf assists by retrieving dropped items, pulling Leigh’s manual wheelchair and other tasks that enable Leigh to be more independent and involved around campus and in life.


Interested in starting your own online fundraiser?

Our site allows you to dedicate your special event, run/walk, barbeque, etc. and support Canine Companions mission of providing expertly trained service dogs to people with disabilities at no charge to the recipient. Create your own personal fundraising page and raise money for Canine Companions your way!

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Run a race. Host a barbeque. Organize a dog wash. Or get creative by dedicating a birthday, holiday or anniversary for donations.

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Whatever your idea is, everything you need is right here. Register to activate your personal fundraising page and get started! Your support will give the gift of independence!

Interested in hosting an event in your area?

Host a fundraising event to support Canine Companions! Please visit our Host an Event webpage for more information.

Are you a business looking to raise funds?

Click here to learn more about our corporate partnerships.