Tails from Minnesota Fall 2012

www.can-do-canines.orgVolume 23 Issue 4

Fall 2012

Just What the Doctor Ordered

pg 7

Tony and Hudson pg 3

Suzanne and Enzo pg 4

Alex and Clark pg 5

Amy and Dinger pg 6

Carl and Chloe pg 7

Our 400th

Team!

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 Rhatigan

Shelly Hiemer

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: Len Washko President

MarySue Krueger Vice President Mike Branch Secretary Greg Stevens Treasurer

Dianne Astry Sara Braziller Kevin Florence Mary Rhatigan

Adrianna Shannon John Sturgess

To reach a staff member via phone, dial 763-331-3000. When you hear the greeting,

press the extension number you need or press 3 for an employee directory.

Can Do Canines 9440 Science Center Drive

New Hope, Minnesota 55428 e-mail [email protected] www.can-do-canines.org

Doing MoreNow that our facility is complete, we have the opportunity to increase the number of assistance dog teams we graduate each year. We have adequate kennel, training, and office space to expand operations in order to reduce the waiting list for our assistance dogs. Our dedicated team of volunteer puppy raisers is growing and our breeding program has been very successful.

The limiting factor is staff size. It takes our current staff of five training professionals to graduate between 35 to 40 assistance dog teams each year. So just adding one new member to the training staff could increase the number of graduates by about eight in 2013.

The total average cost to produce each team is nearly $25,000. This figure includes not just dogs and training but all the overhead costs for staff, utilities, mortgage and fundraising. Because those overhead costs are already in the budget, any additional teams could be produced at the bargain price of about $5,000 each, simply by adding just one more staff trainer.

The challenge is that our contributed income has remained fairly level these last two years, so unless we can secure funding dedicated to this specific purpose, we cannot add another trainer. Can Do Canines is looking for help from you to find a way to overcome this problem. Can you help?

Our loyal supporters have made our work possible during the past 25 years and I believe that you can help us now. For each commitment of $5,000, we will be able to train another assistance dog team next year. Please contact me with your ideas to help us make this dream come true!

Have You Lived Today?John Bunyan said, “You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.” Have you lived today? We invite you to experience the joy of raising a puppy by joining forces with the 60+ puppy raisers who are raising dogs for Can Do Canines, and are living today, by doing something for someone who can never repay them.

Right now, three young Labrador females are pregnant, all at the same time, and Can Do Canines is getting ready to welcome up to 30 puppies who will arrive late this fall. We need volunteers to help raise these

dogs to become good citizens and talented helpers. Won’t you help?

If you’ve ever considered being a puppy raiser, now is the time to get more involved and to change someone’s life. Call Laurie Carlson for information or visit one of our puppy raiser classes to watch the action and ask some questions. We have never needed you more than now!

Fetching Ball GalaWere you at the Fetching Ball last year? It was just a great time and my demonstration dog, Samson, is excited about seeing what the best-dressed dogs will be wearing on the runway this year! If you missed it last year, here is another chance. Mark your calendars for November 10 and get your tickets at the Fetching Ball event web site at www.fetchingball.com. I’ve got my tickets already—Sam and I can’t wait!

What’s a Howler? The Howler is the name of our monthly e-news that’s sent directly to your e-mail address with up-to-date information, moving stories and photos about Can Do Canines and the wonderful work we do. Our regular newsletter only arrives quarterly because of the expense of printing and distribution. However, e-communications cost less and enables us to keep you current on what is happening at Can Do Canines. It also gives you an easy way to share this information with friends and family, too. Please sign up at http://can-do-canines.org/subscribe-to-our-newsletter/

400! Yes, 400 Assistance Dog Teams! Can Do Canines just achieved another landmark goal in our quest to place an assistance dog with whoever needs and wants one. Tony Metz and Mobility Assist Dog, “Hudson” is the 400th assistance dog team certified by Can Do Canines. We are so proud of this achievement and congratulate Tony and Hudson. Thank you for making this achievement possible! Y

Freedom Independence Peace of Mind

2 Can Do Canines

From the Executive Director

2 Can Do Canines


Tony and Hudson are the 400th assistance dog team certified by Can Do Canines since 1989. Can Do Canines places more assistance dog teams in Minnesota every year than all other assistance dog organizations combined. Congratulations to Tony and Hudson!

People with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) experience a rapid degeneration of muscle, and eventually the disease robs them of the ability to perform ordinary tasks, such as opening doors and picking up dropped items.

Tony Metz of Apple Valley, Minn., won’t let DMD prevent him from leading an active life, and now he has help with many everyday tasks, thanks to Hudson, his Can Do Canines Mobility Assist Dog. Along the way, the two-year-old black Labrador Retriever has become a wonderful companion for a young man who has always loved dogs.

When Tony drops something, such as his back scratcher, glasses or TV remote control, Hudson swoops in quickly to pick it up and return it to Tony. Hudson’s skills are proving valuable this fall as Tony returns to Augsburg College in Minneapolis for his sophomore year.

“Augsburg is very accessible for people with disabilities,” says his mom, Carol. “At the same time, there are lots of opportunities for Hudson to help. He’s trained to push the big round buttons for automatic doors, as well as elevator buttons.”

For doors that don’t open automatically, the college installs rope door pulls wherever Tony needs them. Hudson grabs the rope with his mouth to pull the door open and then uses his nose to nudge it shut. Coming from the other direction, he jumps up on the door and pushes it open with his paws.

“In particular, restroom doors don’t have automatic openers,” explains Carol. “If Tony needs to use the restroom, but can’t get in because the door is shut, this can really be a barrier to his independence.”

Hudson has opened other doors for Tony, too — the doors to more social interaction. Tony’s active lifestyle includes eating at restaurants, visits to the mall and strolls around the neighborhood.

“He’s not necessarily shy, but he tends to wait for people to talk to him first,” says Carol. “Hudson is an immediate draw. People are very good at asking if they can pet Hudson, which starts the conversation. Tony likes talking to them, and Hudson enjoys the attention. It’s good for everybody.”

Tony isn’t the only one who benefits from Hudson’s presence in the Metz household. Carol regularly jogs with Hudson by her side, and Tony’s dad, Steve, often engages in a little stress-relieving play with the dog after work. Hudson has a penchant for making everyone laugh, too, whether it’s moving unattended socks to different rooms or nibbling affectionately on family members’ ears.

Carol shares a story about one of the first times they took Hudson to a restaurant: “He was so well behaved; he just went under the table and got situated. The waitress was telling us the specials of the night, when all of a sudden she stopped and started smiling. Hudson was licking her toes!”

All in all, “this has been a fabulous experience for us,” she states. “We look forward to having Hudson around for a long time and are thankful for the support of Can Do Canines.” Y

Opening Doors to an Active LifestyleTony Metz and Mobility Assist Dog Hudson By Bill Johnson New Teams

Julia Amis & Hearing Assist Dog Claire

“She’s such an important part of my life.”

Thank YouDog Source – Can Do CaninesField Trainer- Joan Lisi-McCoyVet Services- Maryland Avenue Pet

HospitalPuppy Raiser- Kathryn & Jayson

AlexanderFoster Home- Minnesota Correctional

Facility at FaribaultSee their full story at www.can-do-

canines/newsletters

Amy Roth & Mobility Assist Dog Dinger“The other day we went for a walk,

Dinger and I, and it felt so good to be alone for the first time!”

Thank YouDog Source - High Voltage RetrieversPuppy Raiser - Marge & Dave SkeieVet Services - Animal Wellness CenterName A Puppy Participants - A.J. Allmendinger

See their full story on page 6


2 Can Do Canines www.can-do-canines.org 3

Our Dogs Fetch Amazing ThingsFreedom Independence Peace of Mind

Tony and Hudson

“It took me nearly 40 years to accept the truth,” says Suzanne McKeever of Mound, Minn. Born with progressive hearing loss in both ears, she says she’d never realized that other people heard differently than she did.

Suzanne started playing music and singing with natural perfect pitch when she was two. In third grade, her parents were told she had a speech impediment. When her father took her to a doctor to find out why, he told them not to worry, that she just had swimmers’ ear and would outgrow it. As Suzanne grew, she learned piano, participated in dance, and skated competitively. She even played in the school orchestra and could tune her instrument to match all the others’. She says she taught herself to hear with her whole body, not just her ears.

It wasn’t until a high school party that Suzanne realized she heard differently from everyone else. She couldn’t pick up voices in the noisy place, but no one else seemed to have a problem. “The boys thought I was really bold,” she says, “because I would walk right up to them to have a conversation, in order to hear them.” Suzanne’s mother took her to a physician who diagnosed her hearing loss as a lack of bone growth within her ear, but the independent teenager didn’t want to accept help or tell anyone in her circle that she couldn’t hear.

College soon followed, with a major in nursing and philosophy. Suzanne was a straight A student, getting through by always sitting at the front of the class. Having to concentrate so hard and be so diligent with reading and assignments was stressful for the young woman. Her doctor recommended surgery to improve her hearing, but the two procedures only seemed to make things worse. Now she could not hear the phone, a sound she used to be able to catch. Suzanne finally accepted hearing aids and returned to school. She recalls that, although she could “feel” the heartbeat of a patient and even read the inaudible parts of the beat with her body, her school required that she be tested by hearing the beat. “I even tried to make a stethoscope with hearing aids built in so I could pass my tests,” she says.

Suzanne’s hearing loss progressed. Eventually she was forced to retire from nursing. “I could no longer hear well enough to provide the care I felt my patients needed,” she explains. “Without my hearing

aids, I’m completely deaf.” Unable to identify the phone, doorbell, or emergency sounds, Suzanne and her now-grown son worried about her safety. “When you rely on visual cues to tell you about your world, the night becomes very scary,” she says.

One of Suzanne’s other great loves has always been dog training. Handpicked for his breeding and temperament, the new puppy in the house—a black Labrador Retriever named Enzo—quickly caught on

faced mobility challenges. Sports injuries, a broken back, and falls had made it difficult for Suzanne to bend over, pick up dropped items or open heavy doors. One of Leslie’s first questions was, “What happens if you drop something? Will Enzo pick it up?” Thus Suzanne and Enzo began training to become a combination skills team for both hearing and mobility.

“Leslie gave me so many wonderful tips for training Enzo,” Suzanne remembers.

“Volunteer Mary Rhatigan helped by creating noises, door knocks, etc. for Enzo to alert to. She and Leslie became my thinking machines, helping me see beyond Enzo as just a pet. Mostly I had to learn to let him do things for me.” Now Enzo alerts Suzanne to sounds such as a fire alarm or the doorbell ringing. He takes her to the phone if it rings and even helps her find it if it’s misplaced. Enzo joyfully retrieves lost items, tugs open the refrigerator and takes the laundry bag up and down stairs for Suzanne. His valuable skills help keep her safe at home and out in public.

These days, Suzanne plays harp and gives lectures about her journey through life with hearing loss. As always, she “hears” the music through her body. She cannot wear her hearing aids while she is playing, because they reverberate. She says that having Enzo at her side while she plays gives her peace of mind.

“There are so many people with hearing loss and many of them live in fear when they are alone,” she explains. “The volunteers and donors who help provide assistance dogs to me and people like me mean so much. It gives both the people and the dogs a purpose. We take care of the dogs and they take care of us.

“Now, when I am at home at night, he will accompany me to the door. I am much more comfortable knowing Enzo will alert me to any sound. I don’t know how I would get along without him. He does so much for me.” Y

Can Do Canines values the bond between a person and their pet dog who assists them. We make every effort to help them become certified assistance dog teams when possible. Congratulations Suzanne and Enzo!

to the basic obedience commands Suzanne worked to teach him. “He was a wonderful pet, and we enjoyed his loving nature and gentle spirit,” Suzanne says. “I began to wonder if Enzo could do more – if he could be trained to alert me to sounds.” When she learned that Can Do Canines would consider training pet dogs to be assistance dogs, Suzanne applied for Enzo and her to become a team.

At her first meeting with Client Services Coordinator Leslie Flowers, Suzanne says she was amazed at the work and training it would take to train a Hearing Assist Dog. “I have a lot of obedience experience,” Suzanne recalls, “but I never would have known how to train Enzo to alert me to a sound.” Leslie was struck by the fact that, though her initial assignment was to help Enzo become Suzanne’s ears, Suzanne also


4 Can Do Canines

Hearing With Your HeartSuzanne McKeever and Hearing & Mobility Assist Dog Enzo by Staff Writer

Suzanne and Enzo

New Teams

For the Miskowics of Sauk Rapids, Minn., family shopping trips are a routine matter — a far cry from a few months ago when a simple trip to the store could quickly turn into a crisis.

The difference maker: Clark, a three-year-old Golden Retriever and Can Do Canines Autism Assist Dog.

Before Clark came onto the scene, autism caused young Alex Miskowic to behave in disruptive ways. When over-stimulated, he typically curled up into a ball or backed into a corner and began to scream or babble continuously. Unfortunately, these episodes often occurred in public places, such as stores.

“Alex would drop to the floor and go into a meltdown, screaming and kicking,” explains his mom, Karmin. “We would literally have to pick him up, throw him over our shoulders and carry him out.”

Contrast that chaotic scene with family shopping trips today. Eleven-year-old Alex is now accompanied by Clark, who brings a strong calming effect to bear on the situation. “Since we’ve had Clark, Alex has dropped to the floor a couple of times. But now, we say, ‘Alex, we gotta go…grab Clark!’ He jumps up, grabs the handle on Clark’s vest, and it’s done,” says Karmin.

“He might still complain,” adds Alex’s dad, Tom, “but he walks out on his own, and there’s no screaming.”

Because of this transformation, the Miskowics are even able to go on all-day family shopping trips without a problem. “We just need to bring a water dish for Clark,” says Tom.

Clark’s calming presence manifests itself in many other ways, both in public and at home.

“We’re definitely not seeing the behaviors that we were previously,” states Karmin. “When he needs time to relax, we send him to his room with Clark. Before, he would scream and stomp; he’d slam things and break them. Now he goes to his room and pets Clark. Within five minutes, he’s calmed down.”

The change in Alex has trickled down to younger brother, Brandon, she says. “Brandon doesn’t copy Alex’s stressed- out behavior.”

Karmin and Tom agree that Clark is “very low key,” which undoubtedly contributes to his calming personality. At the same time, this trait may be one reason why Clark apparently prefers not to partake in traditional boy-and-dog play. “Alex has tried to get Clark to fetch a tennis ball. Clark will go pick up the ball, look at you, then drop the ball, as if to say ‘I’m done!’” laughs Karmin.

Regardless, Alex loves Clark, and so does the rest of the family. They also appreciate the tremendous effort that went into bringing Clark into their lives — without charging the family a penny. “Can Do Canines does such a great job training these dogs,” comments Karmin. “The dogs are so well taken care of…this is an organization that definitely cares for their animals.” Y

To make more Autism Assist Dogs like Clark available for kids like Alex, make your donation in the enclosed envelope or visit www.can-do-canines.org.

Mikayla Salls & Autism Assist Dog NicksonNow with Nickson at her side, a firm

grip on the handle on his vest and wearing the tether that keeps them

together, Mikayla is learning to interact more in her world.

Thank YouDog Source – Jody LuddenPuppy Raiser – The Ruppe FamilyFoster Home - The Turner Family,

The Holicky FamilyVet Services - Animal Wellness Center

See their full story at www.can-do-canines.org/newsletters

Tony Metz & Mobility Assist Dog Hudson

Hudson has opened other doors for Tony, too — the doors to

more social interaction.

Thank YouDog Source - Dr. Pamela HandPuppy Raiser - Stephen & Becky HallanFoster Home - Deb Hanson, Minnesota

Correctional Facility at Faribault

Vet Services - Maryland Avenue Pet Hospital

See their full story on page 3



Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things

Calming ‘the Storm’ Before It HappensAlex Miskowic and Autism Assist Dog Clark by Bill Johnson

Alex and Clark

A visit to a college campus in Ithaca, N.Y., changed Amy Roth’s view of her world. “My dad had traveled with me, to help with my bags and make sure I could get around,” Amy remembers, “but the campus was not very accessible for me.” Amy realized she had never been away from family and friends who would lend the steadying arm she needed to navigate stairs, uneven ground or long walks. “It hit me in the face, how physically dependent I was,” she recalls. “Would I have to choose a school based on its merits or on how accessible it was?” It was a hard reality for a young woman looking for a graduate school.

Born ten weeks prematurely, Amy struggled to survive. Brain bleeds left the little girl with cerebral palsy, which affected her physical strength, ability to walk, and vision. Several surgeries and countless therapy sessions meant Amy learned early to deal with pain and setbacks. Nevertheless, she and her family strove to give Amy as much independence as possible. Amy’s balance is severely affected, she tires easily, and crowds overwhelm her, leaving her feeling insecure. Although her endurance is limited, Amy has learned to ride horses and is currently a senior at the University of Wisconsin at River Falls, where she has a triple major in English, Spanish and history.

Amy says she returned from New York wondering how she would manage without the support of her close friends and family. It wasn’t just grad school that concerned her. What about her future? Could she find a job or a place to live close to family? Would she ever be independent? “I was terrified of graduating,” she recalls. “There were nights I would cry because it was so frightening, so huge. It was like this big cliff I knew I had to jump off, but I had no parachute and no way to know what was at the bottom.” Amy began researching assistance dogs. Her father, a Lions member, asked his club if they were aware of organizations that could help his daughter. Of course, Can Do Canines was recommended.

In her application Amy wrote, “I appreciate the kindness of friends and family with all my heart, but that kind of help may not always be available as I continue to push forward on my own – and to be perfectly honest, it is a matter of pride for me. My independence is my most valued and jealously guarded possession. I have worked very hard to get the mobility and range of movement I have now and I am going to

have to keep working all my life to hang on to it. What I need is for a dog to be that arm when I need it, and to brace me when I fall. Having a mobility assist dog would mean I do not have to rely on someone else’s good grace to get me where I need to go. It would mean safety, independence, and yes – pride.”

A Little Girl’s Wish Comes TrueAmy Roth and Mobility Assist Dog Dinger by Staff Writer

Simple things that most of us take for granted are especially important to Amy now. “I am twenty five years old and I had never gone for a walk by myself,” she says. “I could fall and I might not be able to get back up. So walking alone was an idea that never even occurred to me. The other day we went for a walk, Dinger and I, and it felt

so good to be alone for the first time! Now I’m sleeping better and so much more confident knowing he is always going to be there.”

Amy has a special message to the people who make assistance dogs possible for people like her. “I wish there were words to express how much this means to the people who get these dogs,” she says. “It is not just a companion or someone to pick things up for you, it is your freedom, your independence, your quality of life--the ability to live your life on your own terms. You can’t imagine how that feels, to finally have that restriction taken off and be able to go where I want to go. It is peace of

mind for people, knowing that they have a safety net when they need it.”

To Dinger’s puppy raisers, foster families and trainers, Amy says, “Thank you so much. Out of the goodness of your hearts, you said, ‘Here, stranger, have this amazing dog just because you need it and because I wanted to do this.’ There are not enough ways or languages to say how much I appreciate that.

“When I was a little girl, I remember wishing I could ask Santa for a new pair of legs. After every surgery or therapy session, I just wanted so badly to be normal. And with Dinger, I finally feel like I have that.” Y

The generosity of dog breeders, volunteers, and contributors help make teams like Amy and Dinger possible. To help us make more teams possible, please consider donating by contacting Janet Cobus at 763-331-3000 ext. 153.

Can Do Canines trainers looked for that perfect match for Amy and found it in a two-year-old black Labrador Retriever named Dinger. The Roth family had always had pets, but Amy says this relationship was different. A strong bond with an assistance dog takes time. Amy says, “I had to realize it would not be perfect right away. These are not ‘push button dogs,’ not robots. The dogs need to figure out their role with you and your role with them. You need to click.” For Amy and Dinger, she says, it was like a switch flipped one night. Amy realized Dinger was following her, room to room, to be sure she was safe. Now Dinger retrieves dropped items, walks with Amy to provide a counterbalance for her safety, braces her if she falls so she can stand up without help from others, and retrieves an emergency phone. Amy says one of the most important things is the security she feels knowing Dinger will always be there, whether she is twenty miles or three hundred miles from home.


6 Can Do Canines

Amy and Dinger

Who would have thought that his love of dogs would lead him to a partnership that would change his life? That is just what happened for Dr. Carl Osborne.

Growing up in Pennsylvania and Indiana, Carl loved to play in the woods near his family home. He was always bringing home stray animals and “doctoring” them. So it was no surprise when he declared veterinary medicine as his major at Purdue University. After graduating in 1964, he began an internship in Minnesota and never left. Carl met and fell in love with his wife, Lynn, and together they raised three children and gladly welcomed four grandchildren into their lives. Today, Carl is a well-respected professor and researcher at the University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Center.

In 1995 Carl was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. The chronic movement disorder – which Carl says is “not for sissies” – results from the loss of neurons, vital nerve cells in the brain. The loss of the neurons causes muscle tremors, slow movements, stiffness of the limbs and instability when standing. The progressive, degenerative disease has left Carl unable to walk on his own; he uses a wheelchair at all times. Carl and Lynn made adjustments to their schedules and activities to accommodate his condition. Ever the optimist, Carl says he never thought about how bad things were getting. He just kept asking, “What can we do next?”

That next step came in the form of something with which he was intimately familiar: a dog. A university librarian told Carl one day about a seminar she had attended on assistance dogs and Can Do Canines. She encouraged him to apply. “I didn’t really know much about assistance dogs,” says Carl, “but I was curious.” After discussing the possibility with his family, Carl applied and was accepted into the program.

Chloe, a two-year-old chocolate Labrador Retriever, was just what the doctor ordered. Can Do Canines Client Services Coordinator Dora Schroeder began working with the new pair to help them become a true team. Carl says, “Chloe is so responsive and flexible. She will pick up everything – utensils I drop, towels, anything. Chloe and Dora quickly became part of our family.”

The positive reinforcement model of training – rewarding the dogs for what they do right – was especially important to Carl. “I even learned a thing or two about training

students from my experience with Chloe. I may have to start bringing candy to class to use as treats when they get a question right!” he laughs.

Chloe’s presence brings peace of mind to Carl and his family. “I know she will come to my aid when needed,” Carl says. “She can go get Lynn if I need her or bring me an emergency phone if I am home alone.” The Osbornes are even adding a specifically designed back porch to the house so Carl can provide Chloe with regular exercise by throwing a tennis ball for her – an activity that gets them both into the fresh air more often.

Carl says he is committed to helping others learn more about assistance dogs and the work they do. Soon Chloe will be featured in an article about assistance dogs in the veterinary magazine DVM. The article will be written through Chloe’s eyes, with Carl as the ghost writer.

Carl believes the word philanthropy has a special meaning. “It is from the Greek, ‘phila’ meaning love and ‘anthropy’ meaning people,” he explains. “So the volunteers and donors who make this happen are showing their love for others by helping people get the life-changing assistance dogs they need.” Carl is grateful to the people who step up to support Can Do Canines. He and Lynn have also made their own commitment to help others get the assistance dogs they need.

These days you can find Carl and Chloe hard at work in his office or the hallways of the university. Listen and you will hear Carl’s hearty laugh mixed with squeaks when Chloe starts chewing enthusiastically on her ball. “She keeps me happy, and she makes me laugh,” Carl says with a smile, “And she has given Lynn and me something to do together as we learn what she can do.”

Chloe was just what the doctor ordered. Y

Would you like to be part of Dr. Carl’s vision of philanthropy? Visit www.can-do-

canines.org to see how you can help by donating or volunteering.

Thank You Dog Source – Can Do Canines Puppy Raiser – Sara Ehlert & Family Foster Home – The Sorenson Family Name A Puppy Participants – Cottage Grove Elementary School

Just What the Doctor OrderedDr. Carl Osborne and Mobility Assist Dog Chloe by Staff Writer

New Teams

Kathy Schroeder & Mobility Assist Dog Carley

“It feels awesome to be able to go out in the world now,” Kathy beams as she strokes Carley’s ear. “I talk to so many

more people now.”

Thank YouDog Source - Can Do CaninesPuppy Raiser - Mary & Jon AlexanderField Trainer - Julia BrezaVet Services - White Bear

Animal HospitalSee their full story at www.can-do-

canines.org/newsletters




Carl, Lynn and Chloe

Wish ListDog 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 lg. Kongs L or XL Vari-Kennels, new or gently used Wire Dog Kennels Frontline Flea and Tick Preventative Easy Walk or Freedom Harnesses Stuffing free toys, Chuck-It toys Donated veterinary services Purebred puppiesElectronics Laptops & Computers, Windows 7 and/orMac 10.7 or newer Wall mountable server rack 19U LCD TV, 32” or larger Home Theater system for meeting roomAutomotive Gasoline cards Minivan Auto repair/maintenance Small Station wagonEquipment Jonart Professional Whelping Box - Lg - please call office for details Queen bed and night stands Commercial Elliptical exercise machineMiscellaneous Flat bed sheets 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 CleanerBuilding 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! Y

Development NewsTo learn more about any Development News items, please contact Development Director Janet Cobus at 763-331-3000 ext. 153 or email [email protected]

World’s Finest Chocolate – the perfect

holiday gift!Consider selling a variety box with Chocolate Almond, Dark Chocolate Almond, Caramel and a Milk Chocolate Krispy bar—YUM! There are 50 bars in a box and each bar sells for $1.00 to benefit Can Do Canines. Contact Kathy Broten to request a box. kbroten@can-do- canines.org or 763-331-3000, ext 152.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR NOV 15!

Your donation on Nov. 15 can help Can Do Canines won one of the $1,000 Golden Tickets given out every hour during Give To

The Max Day or put us on the “leader board” to win up to $12,500! We raised more than $14,000 last year. This year our goal is to raise $30,000 to staff our “Second Chance Kennels”. Adding this position will allow us to train and place more dogs from shelter and rescue organizations.

15

Name-A-Puppy Program Participants:

A big thank you to the individuals and groups listed below for raising at least $2,500 to have the honor of naming a puppy entering our program. If you would like to support Can Do Canines through this unique fundraising program, please contact Janet Cobus at 763-331-3000, Ext. 153.

Minnesota Women of Today Journey

Bruce and Cindy Backlund Treasure

Seagate Gigabytes Jazz

2012 Phonathon Volunteers Heidi

The Sand Family Jetta

Libby Rothberg Jupiter

Hamel Lions Club Jagger

The Miller Family Jasper


8 Can Do Canines

WORKPLACE GIVING CAMPAIGNS – A great way to support Can Do Canines

It’s not too late to designate a gift to Can Do Canines through payroll deduction. If your company offers matching funds, we can receive a gift from your employer as well.

• Community Shares of Minnesota: If your company participates in Community Shares of Minnesota campaign, you can designate Can Do Canines as your preferred charity! Look for us at worksites such as: Thomson Reuters, State of MN, Pohlad Family Companies, Saint Paul Public Schools, Ramsey County, and many more.

• United Way: If your company participates in United Way, you can select the “donor choice” option and write in Can Do Canines in the “other” category.

• Combined Federal Campaign (CFC): If you work for a government agency, please use our (CFC) code, 67285, to designate contributions to Can Do Canines. Thank you!

Can Do Canines is pleased to have NutriSource Super Premium Pet Foods as our

dog food sponsor

D The Accola family Stefanie & Aaron Adams

D Diana Adamson Jeff Adamson Jayson & Kathryn Alexander

D Mary & Jon Alexander Dennis Alm Linda Altergott Doug Anderson Tom Antikainen

D Dianne & Doug Astry The Bailey family

D Brian & Natalie Barnes Teresa & Keith Barnes Gary Baumgartner Bob Bayard Bill Beddie Briana Bindert Alicia and Tim Blank Pam Blomgren

D The Bloomquist family Becky & Kevin Bobo Jan Boe Natalie Boike Mike Branch Sara Braziller Darlene & Vern Breamer Jim Bremer Dedra Brey Michelle Briggs The Broten family Alexa Buckingham Julia Buege Freeman Jennifer Burt Charlyn Cadwell Dan & Lauren Carbonneau Julie Carlblom

D Pia & Ben Carlsen Dick & Nancy Carlson Laurie Carlson Beth Cherryholmes Gary Cobus Bob Copus Emily Cox & “Mason”

Byron Dahl Nacia Dahl Jenny Dalsted Emily Danser

D The Doyon family Jim DuChamp Sarah Durant Elizabeth Eagle Laurie & Ron Ehlert Megan Ehlert Sara Ehlert Sara Elstad Grace Enebo -“Sparkplug”

D Lia Enger Galen Engholm The Essen family Jean Euteneuer Deb Fauber & “Camille”

D Mike Ferber Bonnie Ferry Tom Fiecke Polly & Steve Filing Duane Finger Maggie Flanagan Kevin Florence Leslie Flowers Sue Forsberg John Fruth Marlys Gapster Sand Casey Gast Bonnie Genin Diana & Michele Gillman Marcia Gilman Diane Golden Jimmy Good Jim Gorman Kathy Grant Becky Groseth Savannah Gruber Steve & Becky Hallan Colleen & Sloan Hamilton Heidi & Steve Hamilton Barb & Steve Hansen

D Mel & Brian Hanson Deb Hanson Ashley Hartley Ronnie Hartman Lisa Hathy

Deb HealyD The Heffernan familyD The Herberg familyD The Herr family

The Hill Murray Girls Tennis Team

D Matt & Laura Hofkens The Holicky family Dee & Brent Hollerud

D The Hollerud family Jon Hovick Anne Ingvoldstad Kelly Jackson Charlie Jacobson Betsy Rose Johannsen & family Bill Johnson Kathy & Randy Johnson Linda Johnson Ruth Johnson

D Dawn Johnson & family Beth Kantor & “Dazzle” Lora Kennedy Sue Klein Pete Kleingartner Betty & Scott Knowles Deb Koehnen Jennifer & Scott Koenig Timmy Koep Marla Kohl & family Ken Kolding Terri Krake & “Brody” Mary Sue Krueger Frank Kuhar & “Diva” Ernie Lapp

D Julianne & Nick LarsenD Karen & Ray Larsen

Heather Leide & “Becca” The Lenneman family Steve Levens Steve Linder Joan Lisi-McCoy Paul Loken Mary Longley Liz Lucast Jan Lund

D The MacKay family Anne Mackereth

Kathy Madison Lynn Maker Kuechle Stephanie Magelky & “Stevie” Carrie Maloney Mary Manders

D Christina & Nick Martinez Ruth McAlindon Scott McClure

D Michele & Shawn McLane Sue Melrose Dr Lindsay Merkel

D The Merkel family Kelly Neal Joanne Nichols

D The Niederloh family Ron Norton

D Paul Oberhaus Alison Olausen Pam Oslund

D Betty Otto Dee Otto Marisa Papsin The Paul Larson family

D Alan Peters Lindsey Pfenning Sandy Pidde The Piotrowski family Jesse Ploessi Maureen Pranghofer & “Bentley” Allison Prentice Carol Priest Kirsten Purvis & family The Reinardy family Michael Reiss Mary Rhatigan & “Ebony” Paul Robinson Erin Rossbach

D The Ruppe family Julia Sand Mary & Dave Sandstrom

D Jerry Schendel Allison Schildknecht Hillary Schrader Arlene Schroeder

D Dora & Howard Schroeder

Kathy Schroeder & “Carley”

D The Schroeder family Joan Schubert

D Holly & Ken Schultz John & Judy Schwab

D Seth & Stephanie ScottD The Scott family

The Sears family Adrianna Shannon Carrie Sherno Laura Shirley Jack Shriver

D Dave & Marge Skeie Terry Spence Melissa Stam & “Kramer” Melissa Stay Sharon Steinbrecher Ken & Judy Stenzel & “Calvin” Greg Stevens Greg & Kari Stewart Nick Strautz John & Stacy Sturgess Dan Swenson Bob Tarrant Ginny Thompson Joanne Tomlanovich Scott Towne Lindsey Trader Jessica Tuenge

D The Tuenge family The Turner family

D Patty Van LandschootD Sandy & Kevin Vance

Barb Verhage Dawn Voelker Sue Wagner Ashley Wancowicz Len Washko

D Laura & Adam Waudby Bobbi Wenger Doreen West Michael Wheelock Patty Wirz Jenn Witthuhn Lori Ziemba

Volunteers and Puppy Raisers Thanks to all of our volunteers and puppy raisers who gave of their time and talent from

June 16, 2012 to September 10, 2012– we couldn’t do it without you! Puppy Raisers are noted by a D beside their names

Gifts In Honor Of Gifts given in honor of and in memory of have been

received between June 16 - September 10, 2012Donated By .............................................In Honor OfCarol Barnes ..................................................................“Oreo”Sarah Cloonan and Marilyn Innes ........Katy Goodwin and

Alex EganKara Graper ............................................................ Joe MesterSusanne Gustafson ..........................Don and Brenda CapraJudith Johnson ......................................................“Woodrow”Sharon Levitsky .............................................Dora SchroederLaura Powers ...Barb DeSarro & Karen Bushee’s birthdaysRenee Schumacher ..................................... Shirley SchmickleJeffrey Stalberger ..............................................Emma CarrollJulie Walton ..................................................................... “Bali”Naomi Wilkins ...................................................Deidre TaylorFairhaven Lions Club ................... 2nd VDG Duane Finger

Gifts In Memory Of

Donated By ......................................... In Memory OfAnimal Wellness Center ....................................“Cody” Bart, “Iggy” Kratoska, “Lil Bud” Neal, “Lilly” Fruchtenbaum, “Lindsey” Hansmann, “Patton” Hamrin, “Sammy” Laak,

“Tiny” Senne, “Willy” Wood, “Bella” Engle, “Bentley” Hodgman, “Kaylee” Mazzuca, “Keeley” Gorman, “Lilly”

Nelson, “Lucy” Anderson, “Max” Siegel, “Nitschke” Stigen, “Putter” Marr, “Spec” Palmer, “Bailey”

Karpesh, “Cali” Ringe, “Copper” Rubenstein, “Dallas” Moren, “Harley” Hill, “Hops” Anderson, “Macintosh”

Appelgren, “Natasha” Weinrich, “Rosie” Jensen, “Sassy” Johnson, “Bailey” Durant, “Buck” Carlson, “Champ”

Weir, “Indy” Lorek, “Peanut” Thostenson, “Penny” Rud, “Pretty Girl” Sherman, “Reilley” Wilson, “Rose”

Reali, “Saga” Lawrance, “Sargeant” Lais, “Vito” Lodholz, “Angel” Warren, “Bailey” Schumacher, “Madeline”

Brown, “Max” Lauterbach, “Meow” Philion, “Mesha” Santana, “Mookey” Wendt, “Oscar” Herman, “Riley” Bebo, “Shug” Anderson, “Sydney” Hopkins, “Tigger

Tot” Garner, “William” Plowman, “Angel” Heyn, “Aries” Trboyevich, “Brady” Burkholder, “Buddy” Smith,

“Champ” Lynch, “D. Claude Monet” Hovey, “Maggie” Smith, “Nellie” Comeau, “Romeo” Biegler

Kara Bancroft..........................................................Dean WetzelVicki Chouinard .......................Mary Butler, Bubba and HanaKathy Eckert ...............................................................Sky SinnerBonnie Genin .............Lorraine Brill, Roberta Dow, Gregory

Freiberg, Marlene HonerGordon Johnson ......................................................... “Peaches”Denise Klucsar .................................................................. “Fred”

Gifts given in memory of have been received between June 16 - September 10, 2012

Donated By .......................................... In Memory OfBarbara Koch ............................................................ Ben Peters Jean Morales ................................................ Jill, Pete and BaileyTerri Muenzberg ...................................“Bosco” and “Pookie”Jessica Nadeau ........................................................... Ben Peters Karol Nielsen ............................................... Joyce A. HollowayJames Osiol ................................................................. Ben PetersOlivia Reddick ..................................Gillian Elizabeth ReddickVirgie Wendel ..........................................................Dick WendelGwen Wood .............................................................Mary Butler

Steve BadalichBoni BerndtBingo Sales, Inc.Barbara BorgLoree BrenJeannette BrevikJennifer BrittonPatricia BrooksP.I. BrownMarjorie CarruthJeanette ChaseCopeland Buhl and CompanyCrown Plastics, Inc.Larry DeckleverJohn DotsethShannon DoyleMichael DreyerDianne DunlayJoel FederElizabeth FisherMark FougnerGoldleaf Plastics, Inc.Robert HalversonHerold Precision Metals LLCKaren HoltChristopher HoweSusan HughesPatti HuttonJohn Ryan Performance, Inc.Laurence JohnsonRandall JohnsonPaula KampaThomas KiefferCatherine KingJudy LeivermannMaria LimarenkoThomas LindGerry LoweKaren LoweLucky Dog Pet LodgePeg McCartanDanielle McNeely

Mitra McNeelyRosemary McNeelyStacey McNeelyStephanie McNeely LommenLolly McNeely SalmenH.G. McNeely, Jr.Dennis McNelisMidwest Fixture GroupModernisticLavina MossBonita MurphyCathleen NielsenLinda NolanNolan Family FoundationLinda Nord PaulMarlys OgleJames OlsonPatricia OlsonKarl PerryJennifer PetersonPlaskolite, Inc.Jerome RiesRobert RofidalJoan RoisumConstance RossMary RusinkoBonnie SafeLynda SchaeppiJoseph ScheinostSears Imported Autos, Inc.Becky SeiberlichD. SimpsonDean SimpsonKaren SimpsonTraci SingherMary SteinkeElizabeth StrandCory TownsendTriad ManufacturingMartin VaughnMerle WaldronRoger WiknerAudrey Wohlers

In Memory of William “Bill” McNeely

On August 10, 2012, Can Do Canines lost a very special friend of the organization. Since 2007, Bill McNeely sponsored the full cost of providing an assistance dog for six individuals. He was a pleasure to know and will be deeply missed by all of us at Can Do Canines. We would like to thank those listed below for their kind donations in his memory.

Bill with Mindy, Jack and Tino




More than 300 walkers, volunteers, vendors and 82 very well-behaved dogs joined us for the first Can Do Woofaroo on August 5th at the Can Do Canines facility in New Hope. The beautiful day included vendors, food, entertainment and our annual fund raising walk.

Snoopy from Valley Fair Amusement Park greeted guests as they arrived. It was exciting to see old friends and new come together to enjoy the afternoon. Participants were invited to browse through over 35 exhibitors booths and take a tour of the Can Do Canines facility. Entertainment included a K-9 police officer demonstration by New Hope Officer Todd Black and Jack, the Terpsichory Courtly Dance Troupe and the Kantor Family Cantors. Elaine Garley of Animal Bridges demonstrated Tellington T-Touch techniques, dog first aid and assistance dog skills were demonstrated by Can Do Canines trainers. Many guests took advantage of the great fare from Wagner’s Drive In, Bridgeman’s Ice Cream and RA McSammy’s food trucks.

The walk was led by King Henry from the Renaissance Festival, Paul Robinson from In The Heart of The Beast Puppet

and Mask Theatre, and our own Al Peters. Over 200 walkers enjoyed Steve Hamilton as he serenaded us on bagpipes and Joan Schubert and Byron Dahl who performed at the first water stop along the route.

More than $37,500 was raised by walkers and our business partners for the fundraising walk - enough to fund 1½ new assistance dog teams this year! Thank you!

Top 10 fundraisers:Susan Youngberg $1370 Joe Meister $1330 Nicole Taras $1275 Sharon Bloomquist $1260 Ingrid Miller $1215 Chrissy Martinez $1100 Marcy Steinberg $1049 Jean Euteneuer $1045 Judy Christensen $1000 Adam Burrows $ 780

Top 5 Teams:Team Georgia Peach $3300 Graduate Team $1937 Dogs R Us $1760 Don’tcha Know Doggie $1315 Hope’s Walk & Roll $1275

Top Fundraiser Susan Youngberg and Bali

Top Team Team Georgia Peach

Thanks to our sponsors!

Thrivent Financial for LutheransADOGO Pet Hotel

Liberty Diversified International

Sometimes Can Do Canines is fortunate people that call us offer their talents and skills to help our organization. One such person is Carrie Maloney, who called in March 2011 to offer her marketing and video production skills to our organization. We learned very quickly that she certainly doesn’t let the grass grow under her feet. During our first meeting, she became interested in helping us with video production on several projects to help promote our new brand and make our organization shine. Little did we know what a dynamo this woman is!

Since she began volunteering, Carrie has produced inspirational videos for the 2011 and 2012 Tails of Independence luncheons and the 2011 Fetching Ball. This is no small feat. She interviewed clients prior to videotaping, compiled the script, supervised the editing, and worked with Brian Schroeder, MarySue Krueger and Mark Falstad to ensure the video shoots went as smoothly as possible. Her husband, Mark Given, helped with photography and editing as well. Carrie’s current project is producing

Volunteer Spotlight – Carrie Maloney

Carrie Maloney and her dog Gracie

a new video for this year’s Fetching Ball gala to debut on November 10th. Get your Kleenex ready!

In addition, Carrie produced her own video, while in Hawaii, promoting Can Do Canines and submitted it in the 2011 GiveMN video contest. Her video won and was highlighted on the GiveMN website during the Give To The Max Day campaign.

She has worked with Development Director, Janet Cobus, in designing and implementing our online marketing program which includes writing and producing our monthly e-News. She’s also helped our communications interns with tips on how to interview and enhance their writing techniques.

We cannot thank Carrie enough for all of her time and enthusiasm when sharing her many special talents with us. She is a pleasure to know and we are honored that she chooses to support Can Do Canines through her volunteer time. She greatly deserves the volunteer spotlight. Thank you Carrie! Y

What about you?

Are you willing to give the gift of your time? We need help in the following areas: • Lawn maintenance and landscaping • Assistant for event planning • Puppy Raisers (14-16 months) • Foster families (2-4 weeks) • Receptionist • Marketing AssistantContact Volunteer Coordinator Laurie Carlson at [email protected] or 763-331-3000 ext. 113.


10 Can Do Canines

The Can Do Woofaroo Was A Howling Success! Y

New Teams

Alexander Miskowic &Autism Assist Dog Clark

Before, he would scream and stomp; he’d slam things and break them. Now he goes

to his room and pets Clark. Within five minutes, he’s calmed down.”

Thank YouDog Source – Cynthia BlackPuppy Raiser – Darlene Blomberg Foster Homes - Bill Beddie & Kathy Grant, Diana Adamson & Paul OberhausVet Services - Maryland Avenue

Pet HospitalSee their full story on page 5

Suzanne McKeever & Combination Skills Dog Enzo “I don’t know how I would get along

without him. He does so much for me.”

Thank YouDog Source – Pet Dog

Special Thanks – Mary RhatiganSee their full story on page4




Order A Halloween Costume for your dog and help Can Do Canines too! Can Do Canines has teamed up with HalloweenCostumes.com in an effort to help you look AND feel your best this Halloween. Use this custom shopping link and 15% of your purchase will be donated to Can Do Canines! So whether it’s a people costume for you, or a pet costume to help your pooch be a “haute dog,” use this link to ensure your great costume is supporting a great cause. Be sure to share the link with friends and family, as there’s no limit to what we can earn- the more the harrier!

HalloweenCostumes.com/Fundraiser/CanDoCanines

Graduation!Join us for our favorite time of the year- Graduation! Our newly certified teams, including our 400th team, will accept their certificates and nylabone diplomas at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 28, 2012 at Can Do Canines. The event is free and open to the public. YCome join in the festivities!

Can Do Canines has teamed up with HalloweenCostumes.com in an effort to help you look AND feel your best this Halloween. Use this custom shopping link and 15% of your purchase will be donated to Can Do Canines!

So whether it’s a people costume for you, or a pet costume to help your pooch be a “haute dog,” use this link to ensure your great costume is supporting a great cause. Be sure to share the link with friends and family, as there’s no limit to what we can earn – the more the hairier! Y

HalloweenCostumes.com/Fundraiser/CanDoCanines

Order A Halloween Costume for your dog and help Can Do Canines too!

The Can Do Woofaroo Was A Howling Success! Y

Visitme online!You can read and share

Tails from Minnesota online and receive every issue in your email inbox! Go to www.can-do-canines.org/newsletter

and tell us how to deliver your copy of Tails

Master of Ceremonies Jason DeRusha

WCCO-TV Anchor/Reporter

Join us for The Fetching Ball ... dogs, dining and dancing are just the start. This lively evening

will include the Enchanted Tails of our clients.

Celebrate the more than 400 teams who have graduated and hear stories of bravery, courage and the magic of four paws and a wagging tail.

Saturday, November 10, 2012 Earle Brown Heritage Center

Brooklyn Center, Minnesota 55430

Free parking and barrier free facility

5:30 pm: Registration opens, mingle with puppies

6:00 pm: Silent auction, games, hors d’oeuvres and cash bar including our signature PupTini specialty drinks

6:30 pm: Enjoy your meal from our gourmet dining stations as you continue to play games and bid on silent auction items

7:30 pm: Enchanted Tails Program with a whimsical canine fashion show and Raise Your Paws live auction followed by dancing to Suzi and the Studmuffins and dessert

Reserve your table or tickets now to get the Early Bird Price before October 20. A confirmation of your reservations will be sent to you. Your tickets will be waiting at the door.

To purchase tickets or for more information go to www.fetchingball.com or return the enclosed card.

A creative black tie event

Scan QR code or visit our website www.fetchingball.com

for event details and to purchase tickets

We invite you to attend ...

501(c)3

Benefiting Can Do Canines

9440 Science Center Drive New Hope, Minnesota 55428

763-331-3000 www.can-do-canines.org

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.

Dogs, training and supplies are provided to each client free of charge.

Printing services compliments of

Nonprofit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDTwin Cities, MNPermit NO. 4744

9440 Science Center DriveNew Hope, MN 55428

Upcoming Events

* 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 [email protected] to reserve your spot!

October 13 Tails To Tell Tour, 10:00 a.m.October 28 Graduation, 1:00 p.m. (please note this is Sunday)November 10 The Fetching Ball, Earle Brown Center, 6:00 p.m.November 13 Tails To Tell Tour, 10:00 a.m.December 1 Volunteer and Ambassador TrainingDecember 8 Tails To Tell Tour, 10:00 a.m.January 17 Tails To Tell Tour, 7:00 p.m.February 23 Tails To Tell Tour, 10:00 a.m.

Tails from Minnesota Fall 2012

Documents

Transcript of Tails from Minnesota Fall 2012