Wounded Veteran Initiative

Canine Companions for Independence has provided many assistance dogs to US war veterans across the country. With the increase in wounded veterans who could benefit from an assistance dog, we want to do more. For a veteran making a new start putting their life back together from an injury, an assistance dog can provide the help they need to regain independence.

Canine Companions was the first assistance dog organization to be ADI Accredited, and have provided assistance dogs to over 3000 people.

Read stories of veterans with CCI assistance dogs.

Are you ready for an assistance dog? Here are some traits of current veteran graduates:

• Disabled in combat
• Uses a manual wheelchair
• Paraplegic or amputee
• Full (or mostly full) mobility of both arms; good upper body strength
• Good cognitive ability and clear speech
• Stable home life to provide for a dog's basic needs
• Completely fenced yard
• Ready for the benefits of an assistance dog

• Apply for an assistance dog
• Learn more about the four types of CCI dogs
• Read about how CCI dogs are trained
• Read stories about veterans with assistance dogs

Questions?  Please email us or call 800-572-BARK (2275).