Graduation Program March 2019

How does a silly, wiggling puppy evolve into a confident, unflappable, multi-talented Saint Francis Service Dog?

It takes over two years of teaching, training, testing...and love. Lots of love.

From the moment a puppy joins the Saint Francis program, countless hearts and hands join together with one goal in mind: to change the life of its future partner. Whelpers, puppy raisers, puppy sitters, puppy players, dog walkers, groomers, trainers, donors, volunteers, staff…all play their important piece in the puzzle. Everyone falls in love a little bit; everyone’s heart breaks a little bit when it’s time for that puppy to move on to the next step; everyone swells with pride today at graduation when they see these perfect partnerships. Our dogs will be their partner’s trusted aide, helping hand, and constant companion. It’s a big job to put on those furry shoulders, but each person that plays a part in that puppy’s education will help give it tools that it will use to make the world a better place for a man, woman, boy or girl with a disability. We are so grateful for the tireless and loving support of our Saint Francis family.