Why We Fundraise for Canine Companions
St. Francis Winery was named after St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals and protector of the natural world.
Imagine dropping your keys and not being able to reach them. Sitting in the dark, because you can't turn on the lights. Waiting for someone to come by to open the door. Now imagine having a Canine Companions service dog to do all of those tasks — and more.
Canine Companions transforms the lives of people with disabilities by providing their clients with expertly trained service dogs, free of charge. Their dogs are trained to perform practical tasks that enhance independence and reduce reliance on others. This powerful relationship leads to greater confidence and inclusion for a person with a disability.
Victor & Violet
Victor was matched with Service Dog Violet, who is trained in commands specifically designed to help mitigate the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
As a result of Victor’s service, he has a traumatic brain injury and PTSD and is a Purple Heart recipient. Expertly trained in over 40 commands, Violet wakes Victor from nightmares, interrupts his panic attacks, turns on and off lights, picks up dropped items and provides constant companionship.
Victor shares, “She’s the best thing that ever happened to me. Violet is amazing and so well trained. Since I’ve had her, I’ve been calmer and more relaxed.”
Violet has helped Victor work through PTSD flashbacks and panic attacks and allows Victor to be more comfortable in his everyday life.
Chris & Nikko
New Castle County Police Department welcomed expertly trained Facility Dog Nikko to their team.
Nikko helps in criminal investigations, including calming a young girl long enough for detectives to gather necessary evidence from a crime scene.
“The whole situation was causing her stress and anxiety,” said Master Cpl. Chris Gigliotti, Nikko’s handler and a member of the department’s Community Services Unit. “So, we got on the floor and played. We taught her a couple of Nikko’s commands, and after about an hour, she became agreeable to the investigation.”
Nikko has been trained in numerous commands to ease trauma victims in stressful situations as well as assist children and other vulnerable populations.
At St. Francis we take pride in crafting award-winning wines through sustainable farming in Sonoma County. We honor our namesake, St. Francis, the patron saint of animals, by supporting animal charities such as Canine Companions®. We’re proud to partner with them as they provide service dogs to people with disabilities, completely free of charge. For more information on St. Francis wines, click here.
You bought a bottle, we gave $1.00. You can make a difference, too - please support Canine Companions and donate today!