Assistance Dogs for: Hearing Loss • Mobility Challenges • Seizure Disorders • Type 1 Diabetes • Childhood Autism
The Next Generation
Summer 2013 Volume 24 Issue 3 Photo by Angie Koos Photography
Freedom
Independence
Peace of Mind
From the Executive Director Puppies, Puppies, Puppies!
In 1988, Lucky, pictured above, was the first dog we adopted from an animal shelter. She was homeless and was scheduled to be euthanized that day. Lucky served as our demonstration dog for 11 years. She is symbolic of our commitment to save homeless dogs while fulfilling our mission to serve people with disabilities.
Tails From Minnesota
Published quarterly for friends and supporters of
Editor/Layout/Design Alan M. Peters Mary Decheine-Rhatigan Can Do Canines is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities by creating mutually beneficial partnerships with specially trained dogs. We envision a future in which every person who needs and wants an assistance dog can have one. Assistance dogs provide the gifts of freedom, independence, and peace of mind to our clients and their families. Our fully trained dogs, often adopted from local animal shelters, are provided to our clients who live with disabilities that involve mobility challenges, hearing loss or deafness, seizure disorders, autism, or diabetes complicated by hypoglycemia unawareness. Dogs, training and equipment are provided to each client free of charge. Board of Directors: MarySue Krueger President Len Washko Vice President Mike Branch Secretary Greg Stevens Treasurer Dianne Astry Kevin Florence Susan Forsberg Mary Decheine-Rhatigan Kiersten Hegna Adrianna Shannon John Sturgess Robert White To reach a staff member via phone, dial 763-331-3000. When you hear the greeting, press the extension number you need or press 2 for an employee directory. Can Do Canines 9440 Science Center Drive New Hope, Minnesota 55428 e-mail info@can-do-canines.org website www.can-do-canines.org
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Do we have puppies! As I write this, a litter of eight puppies donated from a Virginia breeder just arrived in New Hope after a trip from halfway across the country. In addition, Bela, one of our breeding moms, gave birth to seven puppies on June 12th and Reena delivered seven puppies on May 22nd. Two other moms are also pregnant, so we will be rolling in puppies during the next few months. Planning for the future is critical when you speak about puppies. Puppies take time. And training. And love. These litters are part of our plans to increase the number of graduates over the coming years. The puppies born later this year won’t begin serving someone with a disability until early 2015. If you have ever considered raising a puppy for our program, please consider doing so again. Puppy raising creates the opportunity for you to change someone’s life in such a positive way. When you meet that person at graduation, and see the love between the teammates, you’ll know you did the right thing. Raise a puppy, change a life.
Capital Campaign Our capital campaign, The Campaign for Independence, began in 2009 and has been a huge success. We have raised $3.7 million of our $4.4 million goal, have acquired and developed our own facility in New Hope, Minnesota. We have created a wonderful environment for our clients, volunteers, staff, and, of course, our dogs! As part of the campaign, we have secured pledges and gifts to eliminate all debt for the organization by 2017. We are very proud and thankful to all who have helped so far. The last step in our capital campaign—the most important step—is to raise funds to put our wonderful new facility to its best use. Time is critical, as the campaign will conclude on December 31, 2013. While we now have space to train twice as many dogs and clients as we do today, we face many challenges. The vehicles we use to transport our dogs are old and unreliable. Some of our equipment is outdated. We need to improve
the ways that we communicate with clients, volunteers and donors. We must also rebuild our operating reserve to pre-recession levels so we can pay competitive wages and secure the future of Can Do Canines. Most importantly, we are missing opportunities because our staff is stretched to the maximum. So funds raised in this phase of the campaign will also be used to provide additional staff as well as to increase staff wages to levels appropriate for their jobs. Completing this final phase of the campaign will mean that we can invest in our programs by adding more staff to assist with training, graduate services, and administrative support. It will mean that we can dedicate additional staff to evaluating more shelter dogs and expanding our dog breeding and purchasing programs. As part of achieving this significant goal, we will gradually increase the number of annual graduates, ultimately doubling the number of assistance dogs and clients that we graduate each year in order to better address the significant waiting list for our services. Our goal is to raise $625,000 in cash and firm pledges during the remainder of 2013. So far we have received contributions and pledges totaling $120,000—we are on our way! During the remainder of 2013, we will be in touch with all our valued supporters. We will ask you to stretch and make an extra gift or pledge this year to help us complete the circle. We’ll also ask you to help spread the word. We can only achieve these specific goals with the support of people like you. In 2014 we will celebrate 25 years of service to the community. During these 25 years, more than 400 human lives have been made a little easier—and safer—and less isolated. And more than 400 dogs have found a new home with a human partner who will love them, and bring a specific purpose to each day. Together as a team, they do more than either of them could do alone. You made these results possible with your contributions and volunteer support. And only you can help us reach the next level of service. We will be asking you for your help during the coming year. Please listen to our appeal with an open heart. Y
Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things v
“She Saves my Life”
Tom Sandness and Diabetes Assist Dog Freida When asked about his new special friend, Freida, a shy smile spreads across Tom Sandness’ face. “I’ve never had a dog of my own before. Even though training together was a lot of effort and hard work, having her with me now is the biggest reward.”
Tom and Freida Tom lives in Shoreview, Minn. and is a very active young man with hobbies such as fishing, Frisbee golf, sports, and hanging out with friends and family. However, living with Type 1 diabetes since the age of seven has been a challenge, and recently a life threatening condition. He remarks, “One time I was so low for such a long time, I ended up in a coma in the hospital. When I woke up, I didn’t recognize my parents and had memory loss.” Luckily he recovered from the complications of that incident. His mother, Mary, remarks, “When he got an insulin pump to help alert him when he went low, it was very quiet and there was no volume control.” Ever the vigilant mother, at night she would strain to hear if the alarm was going off and got little sleep. The whole family decided that perhaps there might be more help out there for Tom, and there was. A friend of Mary’s showed her a newspaper article on Can Do Canines and how they train Diabetes Assist Dogs. Tom decided this was the help he was looking for and applied. He was paired with Freida, a sweet, twoyear-old black Labrador Retriever. As Tom
and Freida learned to work as a team, he reported, “In general it was a lot to take in.” Not only did Tom have to learn basic dog care, but had to get used to having Freida around, practicing her skills and responding to her alerts. He says, “She alerted me to a low blood sugar the day after she arrived.” Freida also retrieves an emergency phone, his glucose tablets and gets help from others nearby if needed. Now Freida and Tom are inseparable. She accompanies him to his job as a cashier at Home Depot, where even if it is busy and noisy, she alerts him when he’s low. Tom says “On average she alerts me about once a day. She has rarely missed a low.” Even the dangerous lows that can happen in the night are covered. “She jumps on my bed and licks my face to wake me up. She improvises, when needed, and is very persistent!” He thanks the Puppy Raisers, trainers and all those who helped in training Freida. “I’d like to thank each and every one of them. It’s incredible what you do out of the kindness of your hearts. Words can’t express how important she is to me and my family. She’s saving my life.” Tom also thanks those who have donated to Can Do Canines, enabling him to receive Freida. “It’s incredible. You’re really changing someone’s life, and making a huge difference. Thank you.” Y
Thank You Dog Source – Can Do Canines Puppy Raiser – Pia & Ben Carlsen Foster Home – The Lenneman Family` Special Thanks – Inmates at the Minnesota Correctional Facility at Faribault
Would you like to help make Diabetes Assist Dogs like Freida possible? Contact Al Peters at 763-331-3000 ext. 116 to learn how.
Tom Sandness and Freida Page 3
Chandler Flowers & Jinx Page 4
Joanne Kenyon & Ferris Page 5
Colleen Kaldun & Elsa Page 6
Eric Kritzmire & Savannah Page 7
Tennille Petersen & Frances Page 8
Michael King & Elliot Page 9
www.can-do-canines.org
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Freedom
Independence
Peace of Mind
Part of the Team
Chan Flowers and Mobility Assist Dog Jinx Most people with cerebral palsy have to rely on others for help. For Chandler Flowers of Champlin, Minn., it means having Personal Care Attendants 11 hours a day to help with his daily activities, such as cooking, eating, grooming, and dressing. “Everyone who works with me is a team player,” says Chandler. In 2003, Chan’s team grew with the addition of his first assistance dog, Yanni. For over nine years Yanni was the core of the team, until he passed away in the spring of 2012. “Yanni was like a son to me,” Chan said. “There’s only one Yanni, and I loved him very much. But I’ll learn to love my new dog as well.” That new dog came in the form of a fun-loving, two-year old yellow Labrador Retriever named Jinx. His color may be similar to Yanni’s, but their eating habits are very different. “Jinx eats his food in less than 20 seconds,” explains Chan. “Mom said it’s a Lab thing and I only have to worry if he doesn’t eat his food.” Another difference, says Chan, is that “Jinx isn’t as tall as Yanni was, so he normally has to rise in order to get things high enough on my lap where I won’t drop them again; he is really good about waiting until I tell him ‘off ’.” Deciding what organization to work with to get his successor dog was easy for Chan. He was very familiar with Can Do Canines because his mother, Leslie Flowers, works there as Client Services Coordinator. He was confident that a Can Do Canines dog
could take over for the missing member of his team. He also knew that he and his mother could work together as a team to teach Jinx new skills like pushing elevator buttons, walking next to a wheelchair, and refining the skills he already knew in order to fit Chan’s lifestyle. “I really had no doubts about our ability to work together; she is one of the most knowledgeable dog people I know,” shares Chan. One of the most important parts of Jinx’s job is to pick up dropped items and give them back to Chan. He also pushes the button to open the door of Chan’s apartment and tugs open the pantry and refrigerator doors when instructed. “I know Jinx really enjoys helping me. When I’m happy, he is happy; it’s really a good feeling.” Above all, Jinx is a friend and confidant, and Chan is thankful for that. “I hope everyone who helps raise and train dogs for Can Do Canines realizes how important they are. I wouldn’t have Jinx if it wasn’t
By Leslie Flowers
Chandler and Jinx for all the volunteers working so hard. Your efforts really do pay off and I am forever thankful.” Y
Thank You Dog Source – Charlene and Jerome Moser Puppy Raiser – Melissa and Brian Hanson Special Thanks – Inmate Handlers at the Federal Correctional Facility at Waseca
Can Do Canines uses a variety of mixed breed and purebred dogs in our training. We have had great success with Labrador Retrievers, like Jinx . To learn more about donating a dog or puppy, visit our website at www.can-do-canines.org.
International Diabetes Alert Dog Training Seminar On May 31and June 1, 2013 Can Do Canines hosted an international Diabetes Alert Dog Training Seminar at their facility in New Hope, Minn. to help meet the growing demand for dogs trained to help their human partners who have Type 1 diabetes. Trained assistance dogs monitor the smell of the breath of their human partner and alert when that smell changes, indicating their blood sugar is dropping to dangerously low levels. Can Do Canines first trained and certified a life-saving diabetes alert dog to perform these tasks in 2003 and has graduated 28 similar teams since then. But with the rising
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number of people with Type 1 diabetes, the demand for dogs has increased significantly since then and is expected to climb. “Can Do Canines has had repeated requests to host visitors at our facility to learn our methods of training and placing diabetes alert dogs following our presentations on the subject at the Assistance Dogs International (ADI) conventions in Toronto in 2010 and Barcelona in 2012,” notes Alan Peters, Executive Director of Can Do Canines. “We needed to find a way to share this information with other organizations around the world to meet the growing need.”
More than 40 professional assistance dog trainers representing 20 assistance dog organizations located in North America and Europe attended the seminar, led by Julianne Larsen, Director of Training at Can Do Canines and Dr. Claire Guest, CEO of Medical Detection Dogs in England. The event was sponsored by Novo Nordisk, a global healthcare company with 90 years of innovation and leadership in diabetes care. Y
Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things
No Worries
Joanne Kenyon and Diabetes Assist Dog Ferris Joanne Kenyon of Mankato, Minn. knows how rewarding it can be to give back to the community. Being retired, she stays busy by volunteering at the nearby hospice and giving comfort to others. However, she has had challenges in her own life that finally made it necessary for her to seek help. Living with Type 1 diabetes for 15 years, Joanne found herself having to test her blood sugar levels frequently each day and had many dangerous lows. More frightening, she wasn’t feeling the symptoms normally associated with low blood sugar. “I don’t often know when my blood sugar drops, going as low as 28.” (normal is 80-110) She states, “I’m pretty independent. I drive myself, but always check my blood sugar level before I start my car.” Joanne takes pleasure in living with her son and grandson, but when they leave for work and school, it was hard for her to be alone. She remembers falling asleep and waking up to test her blood sugar. It was in the 40s range. “Very scary,” she says. Joanne finally decided she needed a Diabetes Assist Dog to help her, and found Can Do Canines on the internet. “The end result is spectacular,” she beams. Now paired with Ferris, a black Labrador Retriever, she says, “He takes the fear out of being here alone.” When asked how it feels to be finished with the formal training, a big smile appears. “It’s wonderful to be done. I know I have to keep practicing, but I really enjoyed the training.”
During their training sessions, Ferris would practice alerting Joanne when her blood sugar went low. He also retrieved her glucose tablet bottle and got an emergency phone, if she asked for it. They also practiced in different parts of the house and at different times of the day.
working with Ferris in this way, which deepens their bond. Now that she can count on Ferris to alert her before her blood sugars become dangerously low. She says, “Honestly I can’t explain how much he’s changed my life. He’s great.” A member of the Red Hat Club, Joanne recently attended their convention with Ferris. “He behaved perfectly,” she said. Joanne reports feeling much more relaxed, and others have commented they’ve noticed this in her as well. When asked about those who generously donate to Can Do Canines to train more teams, she says, “Please continue to donate. It’s a life changer, now I don’t have to worry.” Y
Thank You
Joanne and Ferris New field trainer, Lynn Davey, was impressed with their work. This was the first time she had worked with an assistance dog team and said it was a big difference than training classes at the obedience club! She was impressed with Ferris’ work ethic. “His enthusiasm – he never shut down and was always ready. It’s fun to work with a dog like that.” She encouraged Joanne to continue taking obedience classes. The Key City Kennel Club generously donated a set of classes, and Joanne finds she enjoys
Dog Source – Can Do Canines Puppy Raiser – Inmate Handlers at the Federal Correctional Facility at Waseca Field Trainer – Lynn Davey Foster Home – T he Furlough Families at Waseca Jill Zasadny, Joan Wingert Curt & Nancy Savstrom Special Thanks – Inmates at the Minnesota Correctional Facility at Faribault
For information on helping to make other diabetes placements possible for those who are waiting, please contact Janet Cobus at 763-3313000, ext. 153, or jcobus@can-do-canines.org.
Service Dog 101 During early 2012, Can Do Canines graduate, Terri Krake, and long-time Can Do Canines volunteer, Pat Heffernan worked with Minneapolis city officials to develop a program to educate law enforcement personnel about access issues for service animals, with emphasis on people with invisible disabilities, including epilepsy, hearing loss and diabetes. From October 2012 to May 2013, Terri and Pat, with help from Terri’s Seizure Assist Dog, Brody, completed the 60-minute inservice training for 836 Minneapolis Law
Enforcement officers plus staff from Minneapolis Animal Control. They provided this service to the community entirely as volunteers. Y
From Left to Right Terri Krake and “Brody”, Mary Lou Fiala, Development Director of Inservice Training for the Minneapolis Police Department and Pat Heffernan
www.can-do-canines.org
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Freedom
Independence
Peace of Mind
The Delivery Duo
Colleen Kaldun and Hearing Assist Dog Elsa Colleen Kaldun is known for supporting others in need. Before losing her husband who had both Muscular Dystrophy and Multiple Sclerosis (MS), she gave him the best of care while still making time for others. She often participates and volunteers for fund raising events held at her workplace, and the MS society approached her to help lead a support group for individuals who were deaf and have MS. She of course accepted, and continues to stay involved even after her husband’s passing.
able to hear everyday sounds like a phone ringing, the oven timer going off or someone at the door can be frustrating and isolating. Not being able to hear more important life-saving sounds like a smoke alarm can be frightening and a huge worry.
Colleen lives in St. Paul, Minn, has two grown daughters and several step grandchildren who keep her busy. She likes to keep herself active by getting together with friends, taking walks and doing crafts. She is a huge dog lover and has always had dogs in her life, but never an assistance dog; until now. Diagnosed with a significant hearing loss at age five, she believes the hearing loss was there from infancy. Although the hearing aids she wears help, she still depends on lip reading and American Sign Language to communicate. The challenge of not being
What is a Hearing Assist Dog? Hearing Assist Dogs are trained to alert a person who is deaf or hard-of-hearing by making physical contact and then leading the person to the source of the sound. Some of the sounds a Hearing Assist Dog may be trained for include alerting the individual to a door knock or doorbell, an oven timer, a smoke detector, an alarm clock, the individual’s name being called, a phone ringing, the sound of an intruder, or a baby crying. Most of our Hearing Assist Dogs are donated from shelters and rescues, and given a rewarding new life with their partner.
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By Kelly Jackson door so Elsa could practice alerting Colleen to those sounds. To have friends and family involved in the training process made it more fun, and everyone has been supportive of her decision to get a Hearing Assist Dog. Colleen says that the training process was rigorous, but the results are worth it. Elsa gleefully alerts, runs and jumps at whatever’s making a sound. For Colleen, the most important sound Elsa alerts her to is the phone because she doesn’t like missing calls. Elsa also lets Colleen know if someone is at the door, wakes her to her alarm clock, responds to an oven timer, and is trained to alert her to a smoke alarm. Now Colleen takes Elsa with her wherever she goes, including her workplace. They take the bus downtown, and Elsa is very wellmannered and popular with fellow riders. Colleen’s duties as an administrative assistant include delivering mail. Elsa comes with on these mail runs, and coworkers enjoy seeing the delivery duo each day.
Colleen and Elsa Colleen has known about Can Do Canines for many years through friends and informational expos. After the death of her last pet dog, she finally decided it was time to apply for a Hearing Assist Dog of her own. In her application she stated, “I want a dog that will alert me, especially at night when I take my hearing aids out.” Elsa, a loving and loyal two-year old black Labrador Retriever, was raised in the Waseca women’s prison program. Her litter was the first one placed there, and the puppies were raised and trained by the inmates. As they still needed to be exposed to public and home settings, prison employees and their families generously took in the puppies on weekends for ‘furloughs’. When the team of Colleen and Elsa began training, Colleen arranged for her 81-yearold uncle to call her each night, and a neighbor would come and knock on the
When asked about how Elsa has changed her life, Colleen tears up and can’t speak through the overflow of emotion. The advice she has for other people who are considering an assistance dog is, “Give Can Do Canines a call!” Colleen has been a strong advocate in encouraging others to apply or contact the office for more information on assistance dogs. She is also very grateful to the inmates, foster families and donors who make this service possible for those who need it. Colleen encourages donors to “Sell candy or do whatever it takes to continue this great program.” Y
Thank You Dog Source – Can Do Canines Puppy Raiser – Inmate Handlers at the Federal Correctional Facility at Waseca Foster Home – T he Furlough Families at Waseca Stephen & Becky Hallan Special Thanks – Inmates at the Minnesota Correctional Facility at Faribault
Attend one of our Tails To Tell tours to learn what you can do to make more Hearing Assist Dogs available for people like Colleen. RSVP at tours@can-do-canines.org
Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things
She Makes Me Smile
Eric Kritzmire & Mobility Assist Dog Savannah Eric Kritzmire of Sioux Falls, S. Dak. is a busy guy. He loves the outdoors, visiting with friends and family, hunting, fishing, and being involved in his community. Fiercely independent, challenges do still arise when living life to the fullest using a wheelchair. At age 19, Eric broke his neck in a diving accident and was paralyzed from the chest down. He attended therapy faithfully, and was determined to live a normal life. This included a job as a draftsman for 16 years, driving a modified van, and owning his own home. However, he found that there were some things he still needed help with. Dropped items were a challenge, especially small things, as his hands don’t work as they should. Opening and closing doors was also hard. If he was alone in an emergency, he would not be able to get help. One of Eric’s favorite places is the local gym. There are several ‘wheelchair guys’ that get together to work out and chat. He met graduate Matt Pruner there along with his Mobility Assist Dog, Teddy. Matt told him how he received Teddy from Can Do Canines, and Eric decided he could benefit from an assistance dog as well. He applied and was eventually matched with Savannah, a two-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever, a beautiful dog with a distinctive ridge up her nose. As a puppy, she and her littermates were frequently ‘cover puppies’ in photos at Can Do Canines.
Eric reports the training process went fine from the start. The warmth in his voice when he talks of Savannah is evident.
lunchroom, or going out to a restaurant where Eric reports, “She is perfect.” She also accompanies him to the City of Sioux Falls council and the Mayor’s ADA Board meetings. “People are amazed how well she behaves,” he says proudly. When asked how it feels to be ‘officially’ finished with training, he grins, “It feels really good. She brightens up my life.” Eric sincerely thanks and praises the inmates, foster volunteers, and trainers for all their work with Savannah. “They did an outstanding job. We just really had to teach me; she knew everything!”
Eric and Savannah He says, “When I first met Savannah, the connection was almost instant.” Eric praises field trainer Dave Crawford. “He took me wherever we needed to go; the training was exceptional.” Now Savannah picks up items Eric drops, shuts the door when they leave the house, and gets the phone when needed, which he said she loves to do. She even helps him with the laundry! Savannah now has her own spot under his work desk. Lunch breaks find the two either hanging out with coworkers in the
Now there are two assistance dogs at the gym, and Savannah is building up her own fan base. Many people like to greet her (with Eric’s permission) when he goes to work out. He says, “A few others are now interested in applying for their own assistance dog. I say GO FOR IT, it’s awesome!” For Eric, it’s simple. “She makes me smile and I appreciate all the things Savannah does to help me.” Y
Thank You Dog Source – Can Do Canines Puppy Raiser – Inmate Handlers at the Federal Correctional Facility at Waseca Foster Home – T he Furlough Families at Waseca The Paul Larson Family Marge & Dave Skeie Field Trainer – Dave Crawford Name a Puppy Sponsors – Mark Rethlake
Savannah was named through our name a puppy program by Mark Rethlake. Would you or your organization like to name a puppy? Contact Janet Cobus at 763-331-3000 ext. 153 or jcobus@can-do-canines.org
Spring Graduation On April 20, 2013 Can Do Canines celebrated the graduation of 17 new Assistance teams. Be sure to join us on October 12, 2013 for our next graduation celebration! Y
www.can-do-canines.org
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Freedom
Independence
Peace of Mind
The Backup
Tennille Petersen and Diabetes Assist Dog Frances Tennille Petersen says this about her Diabetes Assist Dog, Frances, a black Labrador Retriever, “It’s worth it, so worth it. The freedom and independence you have with a dog, not having to worry, it’s having that backup.” A busy military family like the Petersens know the importance of having good backup. Tennille Petersen and her husband, Christopher, parents of Trinity, 8, and Truman, 4, met in the Army. Tennille spent nine years as a Psychological Operations Specialist in the Army Reserves before pursuing a career in law enforcement and then switching to nursing. “It was difficult, finding a place for me to be able to work” (after leaving the Army), Tennille says. Other law enforcement officers, she said, expressed doubts about working alongside someone with Type 1 diabetes whose blood sugar could drop dangerously low. Managing her unstable blood sugar was a challenge even at home. At night, Tennille would take the right amount of insulin, but could go low while she slept, wake up, and struggle to get out of bed. While her husband was deployed, the responsibility of watching mom fell to oldest child Trinity, then only 6. “That’s not right,” Tennille says. While Tennille was working with Saint Cloud Medical Group, a patient came in with a dog from Can Do Canines. They talked about the ways assistance dogs can help. “She said, ‘There are dogs for Type 1 diabetics out there. They can help detect a low blood sugar and fill in those gaps, so you can have your freedom.’ That’s the biggest thing.”
After training, Frances came to stay with the Petersens. On the third day, she alerted to one of the night lows that used to concern her so much. “She jumped in the bed and started pouncing on me,” Tennille says. Frances brought Tennille her emergency bag with her glucometer and glucose tabs. She says, “I checked my blood sugar and it was at 43.” After a month and a half she began alerting Tennille to highs,
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Frances’ more subtle signals, but says that if Frances can’t get her attention, she’ll alert Christopher or the kids instead. Having an assistance dog, Tennille says, is “Even better than I expected. Someone’s always there for me. When I come home from work, she puts her head in my lap and gives me kisses. She’s a member of the family now. Having someone to watch over their mother is easier on the kids as well.” Says Tennille about her daughter Trinity, “It’s not so much ‘I have to be responsible for Mom,’ or that she has to wake up and check on me at night.” Tennille says, “I still worry, but I don’t need someone here to babysit me. I have independence, and that’s a huge thing.” Y
Thank You Dog Source – Can Do Canines Puppy Raiser – The Ruppe Family Foster Home – Jerry Schendel Special Thanks – Inmates at the Minnesota Correctional Facility at Faribault
Tennille and Frances as well as lows. Frances now goes almost everywhere with Tennille and is working on accompanying her to patients’ homes. Since Frances joined the family, Tennille says, “My blood sugar’s been a lot more stable, since I’m not afraid to take my insulin.” Now that they’ve grown more comfortable with working together as a team, Tennille has started picking up on
Dr. Ian Dunbar to present at Can Do Canines! Dr. Ian Dunbar PhD, BVetMed, MRCVS, is a veterinarian, animal behaviorist, and writer. He has written numerous books, including How To Teach A New Dog Old Tricks and The Good Little Dog Book. Additionally, he has hosted eleven award-winning videos on puppy/dog behavior and training, including SIRIUS® Puppy Training, Training Dogs With Dunbar and Every Picture Tells A Story. Dr. Dunbar founded the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) in the United States. He has given over a thousand seminars to veterinarians, dog trainers and pet owners around the world.
By Allison Cavis
Dr. Dunbar will hold a two-day interactive seminar at Can Do Canines’ New Hope facility entitled Fun & Games Dog Training Workshop: Motivation for Reliability, Speed, Precision & Panache on Saturday August 31 and Sunday September 1. Dr. Dunbar will also present a workshop to benefit Can Do Canines on Saturday evening August 31 from 7:00 to 9:30 PM entitled An Evening Lecture by Dr. Dunbar on the Most Crucial & Cutting-Edge Concepts in Dog Training. For more details and to register for this event go to: www.can-do-canines. org Y
For information on helping to make other diabetes placements possible for those who are waiting, please contact Janet Cobus at 763-3313000, ext. 153, or jcobus@can-do-canines.org.
Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things
“Opening Doors”
Michael King & Mobility Assist Dog Elliot Michael King of Westbrook, Minn. is a very positive person. He’s positive that he’s the Vikings number one fan in Minnesota, that he can inspire others to do great things and that he wants to be more independent. Living with cerebral palsy can be a challenge in the quest for independence, and Michael, at age 22, was determined not to be a burden on those who love and care for him. He needed to always be around others to help him with even simple tasks like picking up dropped items or opening a door.
Elliot affects the rest of his family, Michael responded, “In a good way! He lets them do what they need to do, and not worry about me.” Michael feels the most important skill Elliot does for him is to tug open the door, which is no small thing. Michael’s greatest fear when home alone was that he could not get out of the house in case of an emergency. Being able to open that door to the outside is his symbol of independence. Elliot is also able to retrieve the walkietalkie he uses to call his parents, who work nearby.
Fortunately his parents, Penny and Dave, are members Michael loves getting of the Westbrook out and about, Lions Club, through and takes Elliot to which they learned restaurants, their about Can Do church, and the Canines and the Michael and Elliot community center. possibility that a They frequently go for walks, although it’s Mobility Assist Dog might be able to give more like a run once Michael gets the speed Michael some of the freedoms he desired. going on his wheelchair. “Elliot loves it!” After being matched with Elliot, a black he beams. He adds that he’s very safety Labrador Retriever, the initial training to conscious for them both around traffic. work as a team began, and it took a little practice. However, they quickly got the hang Now that they have finished training, he says, “It feels good, really darn good to be of it and Michael began taking Elliot to his able to have Elliot by my side.” Michael’s job at the work center. When asked how
Gifts In Memory Of
What would he say to those who support Can Do Canines with the donations needed to provide assistance dogs to clients like himself ? Michael’s voice softened and he expressed his heartfelt appreciation. “Thank you for everything you do for Can Do Canines.” His parents agreed, saying, “We thank you as well for making this placement possible.” They added their gratitude for the encouragement of their Lions Club in connecting them with Can Do Canines and for providing an outside kennel run for the family to exercise Elliot. They were all in agreement - “Elliot is a special dog and it shows!” Y
Thank You Dog Source – Can Do Canines Puppy Raiser – Inmate Handlers at the Federal Correctional Facility at Waseca Foster Home – T he Furlough Families at Waseca The Holicky Family
To make more Mobility Assist Dogs like Elliot available, please visit www.can-do-canines.org or send in your generous contribution. Thank you!
Gifts In Honor Of
Gifts given in memory of have been received between April 1, 2013 and May 31, 2013 Donated By.......................................... In Memory Of Animal Wellness Center.... “Allie” Pzynski, “Angel” Harris, “Apollo” Hall, “Ashley” Niznik, “August” Hastings, “Baby Girl” Ashcraft, “Bailey” Bergstrom, “Bailey” Curd, “Buddy” Cain, “Butter” Papademetriou, “Cooper” Gustafson, “Daisy” Hill, “Dori” Day, “Duce” Melling, “Earl” Sandmann, “Hershey” Steele, “Iggy” Krehmeyer, “Jade” Cormier, “Jerry” Staiert, “Jordan” Vangstad”, “Koko” Schumacher, “Lacey” Boehme, “Lacey Bijou” Bowman, “Macy” Kish, “Marimae” Allbee, “Merlin” Miller, “Misty” Bottenfield, “Molly” Phillips, “Parker” Reasbeck, “Prancer” Mcilhargie, “Puki” Johnson, “Riley” Wald, “Roo” Wheeler, “Rudy” Munyon, “Sadie” Cox-Townsend, “Sadie” Lagenaur, “Scamp” Schlick, “Stella” Haven, “Tia” Sandstede, “Tora” Steele, “Trina” Flores, “Tripper” Stransky, “Tuesday” Little, and “Tuffy” Nolte Christopher Bindert............................................... “Bourbon” Sharon Bloomquist................................................Bob Young Janet Galvin...........................................“Cricket” and “Belle” Bonnie Genin..........................................................Rose Guck Lynn Hansen..................................................................“Maya” Hofstra Family Hearing Center, Inc...........................“Cody”
love of sports and encouraging others culminates in his job assisting with coaching the varsity football team at the local high school. This fall he hopes to bring Elliot along to provide additional support and encouragement.
Patricia Hughes..............................................................“Oreo” Peg Lindner......................................................Dorothy Lynch Sherry Magnusson....................................................Kodi Rein Gwen McMahon.................................................. Dick Keuhn Jennifer O’Connell................................................K9 “Major” Carol Pederson.............................................. William Morgan Robert Pederson............................................. Dorothy Danca Ardis Rieken........................................................Shirlee Olson Vicki Riven.......................... Beloved father Leonard Bergen Judy Sharken Simon.........................................................Zelda Craig Steinmetz..................................................Dora L. Syltie Deb Streese.........................................Virgil (Bud) Schurman Thief River Falls Moonlighters Lioness Club.........................................Mary Ann Schendler Marian Veaasen..................................................... Ole Veaasen
In Memory Of Dr. Joel Locketz Phil Goldberg, Laurence Margolis, Ronald Margolis
Gifts given in honor of have been received between April 1, 2013 to May 31, 2013 Donated By..............................................In Honor Of John and Louise Donham........... Fliearman boys’ birthdays Sarah Ernhart................................ Sarah Beth Photography’s Rescue of the Month, May 2013 Terry Hagenah.......... Nicole Taras - Congratulations Nicci! Mark and Mary Holmes...................................John Perozino and Rebecca Leier Gary Jordahl.................................................. Mike Harrington Sylvia Knazan................Lisa Knazan and all you do for me Lisa McIntire.............................Tim Reynold’s 50th birthday Minneapolis Foundation...............................Marilyn Lingard Marilynn Muellner....................................................... “Jaycee” Gretajo Northrop MD PhD......................................“Wyatt” Teri Pepin.................................Marcia Fritzmeier and “Jack” Judy Sharken Simon........................................Cayen and Rika Carol Shaughnessy.....................................Collin and “Cher” Cathy Smith................................... Jocelyn Smith’s fundraiser Kaye Vaske....................................................................“Fiona” Marian Veaasen.............................. Emma Carroll and “Ole”
In Memory Of Dean Wetzel Dena Wetzel, MarySue Krueger, Peggy Schultz, Vicki Slingluff, Catherine Strubel, Joni Wetzel
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Freedom
Independence
Peace of Mind
Wish List Dog Supplies Gift cards to pet supply stores I.Click Training Clickers Car Seat Belt Harnesses – All sizes Halti Head Collars sizes 2 & 3 Martingale collars Soft Treats (BilJac, Zukes) Giant Nylabones and Large Kongs L or XL Vari-Kennels, new or gently used 42" Wire Dog Kennels Large Vari Kennels, gently used Frontline Flea and Tick Preventative Easy Walk, Freedom or Halti Harnesses Stuffing free, Chuck-It or JW dog toys Donated veterinary services Purebred puppies Electronics Laptops & Computers, Windows 7 and/or Mac 10.7 or newer Adobe InDesign CS4 or newer Automotive Gasoline cards Minivan Auto repair/maintenance Small station wagon Equipment Night stands and small dresser New sheets sets, blanket, pillows for queen bed Commercial elliptical exercise machine Miscellaneous Coffee Maker 100 cup No-Iron Black Tablecloth/Draping for 6' tables Silverware set and sharp kitchen knives General hand tools Gift cards to grocery stores office supply stores Michael’s craft store Party City Office supplies (paper, markers, stamps) Bleach, glass cleaner HE laundry detergent Framed dog-related art Nature’s Miracle Cleaner Building Materials Bathroom storage cabinet, small Gift certificates home improvement stores Pipe and drape, black (6 - 8ft x 10 ft sections) Stage skirting, black, (24 inch x 32 ft)
Items in bold are our most pressing needs! For more wish list items, please go to www.can-do-canines.org. A special thanks to all of you who previously supplied us with wish list items! You made our wishes come true! Learn more about Canines Do Canines by scanning the QR code with your smart phone
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Can Do Canines
Development News
To learn more about any Development News items, please contact Development Director Janet Cobus at 763-331-3000 ext. 153 or email jcobus@can-do-canines.org
Name a Puppy
June is going to be puppy month at Can Do Canines! Two of the moms in our breeding program will deliver soon and those puppies will need names! If you or your group would like to raise or contribute $2,500 ($1,500 for youth groups) to name one of those puppies, please contact us! Or you can visit our website to read more about the program http://can-do-canines.org/ name-a-puppy-program/
Minnesota Renaissance Festival Wine, Chocolate and Romance weekend, September 14 & 15 This fun, themed weekend will feature the 24th Annual Charity Auction with 100% of proceeds benefiting Can Do Canines. Auction items include vineyard tours, hotel stays, specialized wines, theatre tickets, sports memorabilia and many more gifts for all ages. If you have an auction item to donate, contact Janet Cobus. Or if you simply want to attend the event and bid on some of the great items, please go to http://www. renaissancefest.com/wineandchocolate. html to find more information and to buy tickets to the festival.
Can Do Canines is pleased to have NutriSource Super Premium Pet Foods as our dog food sponsor
Huzzah, Huzzah! It’s Renaissance Festival Time
Minnesota Renaissance Pet GateVolunteers Needed Weekends from August 17 – September 29 Plus Labor Day, September 2 and Festival Friday, September 27th Help raise $2,500 by volunteering to work in the Pet Gate and checking in a variety of dogs visiting the festival. Receive free admission to the festival on the day you work, a $6.00 food coupon and a ticket to come back another day. Minimum age is 16 (with an adult). Four-hour morning or afternoon shifts are available. To volunteer, contact Patty Wirz at pattywirz@yahoo.com. Sign up now, as volunteer slots fill up fast! *For the safety of puppies in training and graduate dogs, you will need to leave them home for this volunteer opportunity.
Yum Yum – It’s Chocolate Time Everyone loves a good chocolate bar! Through lots of volunteer help, we raise over $10,000 each year, one candy bar at a time! Would you help us sell our World’s Finest Chocolate bars? You can check out a box of 50 and sell them for $1.00 each. The organization earns $.50 for each bar sold. They are delicious! They will be available at the Can Do Woofaroo event on September 7th or in our office. Call or email Kathy Broten now to reserve your box! 763331-3000, ext. 152 or kbroten@can-docanines.org
Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things
Volunteer Spotlight – Mike Ferber and Betty Otto Mike Ferber and Betty Otto began volunteering with Can Do Canines in 2002. Mike worked with Executive Director Al Peters to get our development department up and running, and he remains involved as a consultant to advise and help raise funds for us at every opportunity! In addition, the couple has also helped Can Do Canines obtain grants from Thomson Reuters, St MinneSomePlace in Paradise Parrot Head Club, Inc. and Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. When the opportunity arose to raise and train a Standard Poodle, they eagerly joined our Puppy Raiser program. Romeo was the first dog they raised for us but certainly not the last! Over the years, they expanded their love of Poodles to include Australian Shepherds as well. To date they have raised 10 dogs for Can Do Canines, and fostered too many to count. They formed a fundraising team of Puppy Raisers for our annual dog walk, and Mike has helped Training staff by conducting home interviews with Puppy Raiser applicants. Mike and Betty are always eager to promote Can Do Canines. They have staffed booths and helped with general volunteer tasks at many events. They have served as Table Hosts at our annual fundraising luncheon, Tails of Independence, and helped secure underwriting partners for that event.
As active Can Do Canines Ambassadors, they represent us while chatting with the public in everyday situations on a daily basis. This is an important skill to have when you have an adorable puppy in training by your side wherever you go! Mike often speaks to groups like the Lions and Rotary, and explains our Puppy Raiser program to guests attending our Tails to Tell tours. Mike and Betty are very active in their community. Many of those they meet contact us later to become involved as well, either by donating funds or volunteering. We truly appreciate all the many ways that Mike and Betty help the organization, and thank them for their enthusiasm and hard work. They have so much talent to share and we are fortunate to have them at Can Do Canines. Thank you! Y
What about you?
Are you willing to give the gift of your time? We need help in the following areas: • Event Planning Assistant • Puppy Raisers (14-16 months) • Foster families (2-4 weeks) • Receptionist • Marketing Assistant Contact Volunteer Coordinator Laurie Carlson at lcarlson@can-do-canines.org or 763-331-3000 ext. 113.
Puppy First Aid
Tails of Independence Fundraising Luncheon… A New Beginning Our ninth annual luncheon was an amazing success with nearly 300 people in attendance resulting in contributions and pledges totaling $152,000 in support of Can Do Canines programs. Thank you to our dedicated Table Hosts and Volunteers. Thanks also to speakers MarySue Krueger, Greg Stevens, Alan Peters, Nicole Iammatteo, Marjorie Okerstrom and Autism Assist Dog, Truman, and Kelly Madsen with her son
Betty Otto and Mike Ferber
Bryce and his Mobility Assist Dog, Dallas, for giving our attendees an inspirational program. Special recognition is given to our Luncheon Planning Committee and video production crew: Carrie Maloney, Mark Given and Mitchel Hansen for volunteering so many hours of their time to produce the videos for the event. Of course, thank you to the corporate partners for helping to underwrite the costs of the event by providing financial or in-kind product support. Y
On June 4, 2013, American Red Cross First Aid instructor, Chris Asher, presented Dog First Aid to more than 25 Can Do Canines puppy raisers and dog fosters. The information presented included dog CPR, what to include in your first aid kit, how to administer medications, household hazards and bandaging techniques. It was a great learning experience for everyone.
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9440 Science Center Drive New Hope, MN 55428
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Stay Connected With Us Here are a few ways you can stay connected with us on a daily, weekly or monthly basis Join us on Facebook by searching “Can Do Canines” and select under Places Follow us on Twitter http:// twitter.com/CanDoCanines Sign up at www.can-do-canines.org to receive The Howler and Tails from Minnesota
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Upcoming Events July 9 August 8 Aug 31-Sept. 1 September 7 October 12 November 9
Tails To Tell Tour, 10:00 a.m. Tails To Tell Tour, 7:00 p.m. Dr. Ian Dunbar Seminar Can Do Woofaroo, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Fall Graduation, 1:00 p.m. Fetching Ball, Crowne Plaza, St. Paul
* All Tails to Tell tours take place at our facility, located at 9440 Service Center Drive, New Hope, MN 55428 Please call our office at 763-331-3000 or email tour@can-do-canines.org to reserve your spot!
Join Us for the Woofaroo! Proudly Presented By
Saturday September 7
th
Get your fundraising started by registering online at www. CanDoWoofaroo.org or by using the enclosed brochure! Join us for a perfect day with your four-legged friend and family! • Meet myTalk 107.1 Katie K9 • Visit exhibitors • Games for pups and people • Demonstrations • Prizes!
Learn more about the Woofaroo by scanning the QR code with your smart phone
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Wagners Drive Inn
Paw Partner
Jet’s Pizza