Paws & Poss Abilities

From Puppies to Partners Support the Journey

We currently have 17 people waiting to be matched with their service dog and 103 simply waiting for the opportunity to apply. Without your support, we would never be able to meet this need. It takes two years and tens of thousands of dollars to raise, train, and place a service dog with their deserving partner. The journey is a long one, made possible by you: Puppy Program and Prison Pup Program up to 12 months • We cover breeding expenses, veterinary expenses, dog food, equipment, and supplies for the entirety of the dog’s training • Puppies live and work with Volunteer Puppy Raisers and Prison Pup Raisers at Bland Correctional Center to learn basic manners, socialization, confidence, and beginning task work • Both groups participate in weekly puppy classes with our training staff • Puppy temperament, skills progress, and overall health are continually evaluated Advanced Training 8-12 months • Dogs work with a professional Saint Francis Trainer to master over 50 commands • Trainers attend weekly Advanced Training Classes with their dogs • They are tested on these commands in a variety of settings and combinations, and temperament and health continue to be evaluated Partner Training 6-8 months • Partners and dogs are carefully matched • Partners participate a 10-day intensive training session where they learn to handle and command their new teammate • Partners work with their dogs at home, in their workplace, and in public with our help over the next six months • Teams take a certification exam, and ownership of the dog is transferred Ongoing Support continues for the working life of the dog • Teams are re-certified after one year, and every other year after that • Classes are offered quarterly to keep skills sharp, troubleshoot, and add skills to their repertoire • Personal follow-up and help is offered throughout the working life of the dog