Meet the Dogs Changing Lives
Rider
Rider is a poodle from Johnny and June’s 2022 litter and is currently in training as a service dog for the Caskey family. He successfully passed his Canine Good Citizen (CGC) evaluation on March 21, 2023 and continues to advance in specialized service work.
Rider is trained in deep pressure therapy to provide comfort and regulation during emotionally and physically challenging moments. He supports both parents during periods of stress and provides critical assistance to Astoria during seizures and colder seasons. During seizure episodes, Rider is trained to lay across Astoria, offering deep pressure and tactile stimulation through contact with his fur, which helps bring her out of the episode. Due to Astoria’s difficulty regulating body temperature, Rider also provides warmth by acting as a weighted source of heat.
One of Rider’s most essential tasks is medical alerting. He is trained to respond to feeding tube and oxygen alarms by pawing at Christina until the issue is addressed. In addition, Rider assists with mobility access by activating handicap door buttons to support wheelchair navigation.
Rider has already demonstrated exceptional reliability and attentiveness in his role and continues to work diligently to meet the unique needs of his family. His training reflects both his capability and the strong bond he is building with those he serves.
Lewis
Lewis is a German Bernedoodle currently in training as a service dog for Lillieanna, an autistic, non-verbal child with ADHD. His training focuses on emotional regulation, safety awareness, and supportive engagement during daily activities and therapy sessions.
Lewis provides comfort through his presence and is learning deep pressure therapy to help Lillieanna remain calm during therapy and periods of emotional escalation. Guided interaction with Lewis—such as petting him or giving treats—helps redirect Lillieanna’s focus and prevent meltdowns from intensifying. Lewis also offers gentle redirection through affectionate behaviors, including hand kisses, to support emotional grounding.
In addition to emotional support tasks, Lewis is being trained in safety alerting. He alerts Lillieanna’s mother, Megan, by barking if Lillieanna attempts to leave the home without adult supervision.
Lewis has already become a valued and trusted member of the Wise family. He will continue working toward his Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification while refining his skills as a service dog to best support Lillieanna’s needs.
Murphey
Murphey is an English Cream Golden Retriever currently in training as a service dog for Justine Porath, who uses a motorized wheelchair. His training is focused on increasing independence and accessibility within the home and in daily activities.
Murphey is learning a range of mobility assistance tasks, including retrieving water bottles on command, picking up dropped items such as a phone, and activating handicap-accessible door buttons. He is also being trained to press an alert button when Justine needs assistance.
In addition to mobility support, Murphey provides calming presence during medical testing and treatments, helping Justine manage anxiety in challenging situations.
Murphey is currently working toward his Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification and has already demonstrated strong reliability and progress in his service tasks.