Early on, PAD focused solely on using rescue dogs, and some of the most exceptional assistance dogs are from rescues. In 2014, PAD bred their first litter of future assistance dogs, a Standard Poodle litter. This litter was shared with Paws with a Cause in Michigan and 4 Paws for Ability in Ohio. Six of eight puppies from that litter are working assistance dogs or currently in breeding programs for their program! Since then, many more litters have gone on to become great service dogs for PAD and other service dog organizations. In addition, some of these litters have produced dogs that now work in various local school districts as facility dogs!
At about 15-months-old, dogs meet individuals on waiting lists and interact with them. This special time is called “Meet The Dogs.” Volunteer staff assess each interaction and take into consideration likes and dislikes of each individual when matching the future assistance dog teams. Phoenix Assistance Dogs currently has over 30 dogs in training and 57 working dogs from California to Pennsylvania.
Phoenix Assistance Dogs could not achieve their mission without the help of PAD volunteers and support from the public. If you live in the Lititz, PA area and would like to give someone the gift of true independence, consider donating your time and opening your home to help train up a puppy! If this is not an option for you, please join 4Knines in supporting the work of this exceptional non-profit by making a donation.