Chad & Hazel pg. 3
Spring 2011
Terrie & Willow pg. 4 The Cool Kid with the Cool Dog pg. 6
Cyan & Lilly-hound pg. 5
Ben & Kipper pg. 6
Karen & Joy pg. 10
www.can-do-canines.org Volume 22 Issue 2 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things
Volume 22 Issue 1 From the Executive Director
We’re Growing Al with “Savannah” More Puppies and “Echo” Can Do CaninesTM is growing in leaps and bounds. We have more than 100 dogs and puppies in training right now and on April 22nd, Vi, one of our Labrador moms, had In 1988, Lucky, pictured above, was the first dog we her second litter—six healthy puppies, four adopted from an animal shelter. She was homeless and was scheduled to be euthanized that day. Lucky served girls and two boys! Join us for our first ever as our demonstration dog for 11 years. She is symbolic “puppy shower” on June 25, 2011. of our commitment to save homeless dogs while fulfilling our mission to serve people with disabilities. More Puppy Raisers In order to keep an increased level of Tails From Minnesota graduates moving forward we need to More Space Published quarterly for friends and supporters of increase the number of puppy raiser Thanks to continued fundraising support volunteers. Could being a puppy raiser be from the Lions in Minnesota and from the right volunteer activity for you? Attend a number of significant contributors to one of our facility tours or visit one of our our Capital Campaign, we are confident that we will have enough funding to move TM puppy raiser training sessions to watch and learn. Being a puppyraiser is one of the forward this summer with Phase Two most rewarding experiences you could ever of the construction project on our new Editor/Layout/Design have. building. We will complete work on the two Alan M. Peters Sue Schuster unfinished spaces in our building, producing Shelly Hiemer Allison Schildknecht As well as needing more puppyraisers additional office space, meeting space, locally, we are fortunate to have built a new and residences for a caretaker and visiting Can Do Canines is dedicated to enhancing clients. We will also add an additional bank the quality of life for people with disabilities relationship with the Federal Correctional by creating mutually beneficial partnerships Institution in Waseca. Twenty female of ten two-dog kennels. Finally, we will with specially trained dogs. inmates are working with 10 young Lab complete the outside renovation of the We envision a future in which every person who puppies. The puppies moved into prison at building including a new drive-through needs and wants an assistance dog can have one. entrance-way and additional handicap Assistance dogs provide the gifts of freedom, the end of January and they’re doing just independence, and peace of mind to our clients great! Waseca is the third prison location parking near our front door. We are thrilled and their families. Our fully trained dogs, often training dogs for Can Do Canines. to be able to complete this project! adopted from local animal shelters, are provided to our clients who live with disabilities that involve However, the Campaign is not mobility challenges, hearing loss or deafness, seizure disorders, autism, or diabetes complicated by hypo- done and we still need your help. glycemia unawareness. We need significant support from Dogs, training and supplies are provided our contributors to complete the to each client free of charge. funding needed. When asked, please generously support the Board of Directors: Len Washko President Campaign for Independence. MarySue Krueger Vice President Mike Branch Secretary Thanks for your continued Greg Stevens Treasurer support in 2011. Together, Dianne Astry Sara Braziller Can Do Canines is pleased to be providing a new we Can Do it! Y Marky Engler Kevin Florence vocational training program at the Federal Correctional Lisa Knazan Don Knutson Institution at Waseca Adrianna Shannon More Graduates To reach a staff member via phone, With all of these puppies being prepared, dial 763-331-3000. When you hear the greeting, we are in the unusual but wonderful press the extension number you need situation of having too many graduates to or press 3 for an employee directory. include in only two graduation ceremonies Can Do Canines per year! We want to be sure to honor 9440 Science Center Drive each of our graduates appropriately during New Hope, Minnesota 55428 graduation, so we do not want to try to e-mail [email protected] pack too many teams into a single event. We give them love, the time we can website www.can-do-canines.org Consequently we are adding an extra spare. In return, dogs have given us graduation this year, on Saturday August their absolute all. It is, without a 13, and expect to have three graduations during 2012 as well. Our next graduation doubt, the best deal man has will be Saturday, May 21, 2011 at 1:00pm. ever made. Please join us for both of these outstanding - Roger Caras celebrations. 23 Can Do Canines www.can-do-canines.org 32 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things
A New Sense of Independence New Teams Chad Engstrom and Hazel by Laurie Carlson Chad Engstrom of Star Prairie, Wisc. is a very busy man. He works as the Director of Human Resources at Westfields Hospital and is kept busy with family life, including his wife Linnea and children Kaisa, Mattios and Amalia. The Engstroms also train and show Quarter Horses. Chad lives with Type 1 diabetes, which he has had since he was six years old. He works diligently to maintain his blood glucose levels in the normal range but, despite his efforts, he struggles with hypoglycemic unawareness. He says, “I no longer feel my insulin reactions, and have had several bad Jean Lundquist reactions. I live in constant worry about having a severe drop in blood sugar and & Diabetes Assist Dog Juno being alone with no help. Right now, there “I am so thankful that Can Do Canines isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think does the work that they do every day. about managing my diabetes to try to avoid I know they must hear this all the time, the lows or being too high as well. I want to but it makes such a world of difference be around for my wife and children” Chad and Hazel to people like me.” Since Hazel has joined the Engstrom family, Thank You On one occasion, Chad’s blood sugar Dog Source - Julie Mach dropped dangerously low in the middle Chad reports “The kids refer to her as dad’s special dog. The transition has gone very Vet Services - Globe University - of the night. He was so weak he had to Rochester drag himself to the refrigerator and eat well.” He adds, “I’m still getting used to Puppy Raiser- Shirley Russo something before he passed out. As a result having a dog with me all the time. It’s a little Field Trainer - Pete Otterness of growing concern about his condition, different but it’s going fine.” Foster Home- Inmates at Minnesota Chad began researching Diabetes Assist Hazel was quickly accepted at work and Correctional Facility at Dogs and how they help people with around the community. “Most people Faribault diabetes. He was fascinated to find out dogs say ‘Hi Hazel’ before they say ‘Hi Chad,” See their full story at can smell a low blood sugar and wanted to he laughs. Hazel was greeted with great www.can-do-canines.org/newsletter learn more. He discovered Can Do Canines enthusiasm by hospital staff. Both the local online and sent for an application. newspaper and his Rotary Club announced Chad applied in May of 2010 and in her arrival and explained how she helps December he was matched with Hazel, a Chad. When they go to work at the two-year-old Labrador Retriever. Hazel is hospital, Hazel also sports her own personal trained to alert him to low blood sugars ID badge which reads “Hazel, Human by touching him in a specific way, which Resources”. lets him know to check his level. She can Chad and Hazel bonded quickly. She has retrieve a juice or snack if needed, get an been taking her job very seriously and doing emergency phone or go get help from it well. In the first 24 hours, she alerted Chad’s wife or another person in the house. him to a ‘low’ while he was running on While Hazel was growing up with her his treadmill. In just the first month since puppy raisers, she was exposed to many being placed with Chad, she has alerted different sights and sounds including horses him to low blood sugars six times. Chad and children. This made her a perfect match says “I would say that’s excellent. It usually Cyan Ogden & Autism for Chad, whose family has three young takes about three months for a dog to Assist Dog Lilly-hound transition, but she has picked it up very children, and competes and shows horses “The gift you gave us isn’t just for on a regular basis. quickly. I’m feeling a whole new sense of independence.” Cyan. Lilly-hound is an important part In an unusual twist, Can Do Canines of the whole family. We’re seeing trainer, Mona Elder, had to figure out a “Thank you to everyone who has been part more love and affection in our house way that Hazel could alert Chad even when of the process of training Hazel.” Chad because she is here.” he is riding a horse. The solution was to says, “It’s a wonderful thing. My family and have Chad wear a specially designed rope I are so appreciative of all the help that was Thank You attached to his belt – if Hazel needs to alert provided so that I could receive Hazel.” Y Dog Source - The Ottum Family him, she pulls on the rope. Chad is gradually Would you like to help? Call Janet Cobus at Foster Home - The Sorenson Family transferring that skill to a similar rope 763-331-3000 ext. 153 to learn how. attached to the stirrup on his horse’s saddle. Read their story on page 5 23 Can Do Canines www.can-do-canines.org 23 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things Getting Through the Day Terrie Schrank and Willow by Sue Lockrem Terrie Schrank of Webster, Minn. is an When Jerry is not at home, Terrie says it active, involved ‘empty nester.’ She is a is a comfort and a help to have Willow registered nurse working as a Healing at her side. Their daily routine includes Touch Practitioner and volunteers Willow tugging open the refrigerator with her church and throughout her door to bring Terrie her medicine and community. to retrieve a covered syringe off the kitchen counter. On the days when Dogs have been a passion of Terrie’s Terrie’s MS is bad and she has trouble for a long time. She and her husband, moving, Willow will bring Terrie her Jerry, have bred Springer Spaniels for crutches and the phone if needed. She many years, and in 2005, she decided also helps with tugging off Terrie’s to volunteer with Can Do Canines. socks. “Willow often knows before I They became short-term foster parents do when I’m not feeling well. She is a for three Lab puppies and were Puppy constant reminder for me to take my Raisers for a yellow lab named Dexter. medicine.” For Terrie, this was a way of giving back to the dogs she loved so much and to Now the two travel everywhere together. help someone going through a struggle During meetings in the community, similar to her own. Willow lies perfectly calm by Terrie’s side. At one meeting, Terrie removed Terrie has lived with Multiple Sclerosis Willow’s coat and took her outside for for more than 20 years. This progressive Terrie and Willow a break. She started jumping around disease affects her vision, mobility, that were born sensation, and at times, her memory. at the Schrank As she was raising Dexter she thought, home. Willow was “Maybe someday, I’ll be the one who already assisting needs an assistance dog.” Terrie at home but needed help fine- tuning her skills. So, they applied to Can Do Canines as an owner Willow bringing a phone and a crutch to Terrie and tugging off her sock trained team and, after Willow and acting like any other dog. “People received her health and temperament thought I had a totally different dog. She clearances, they were both accepted into just knows when she’s working and when the Mobility Assist Dog Program. it’s time to play”. How did Terrie know that Willow, out of Terrie expresses her appreciation of all her pups, was the one? “Willow has Willow by saying, “Dogs are really an always had the extra drive and willingness extension of your spirit. When I’m not Willow assisting Terrie up a flight of steps to work until the job is done. She always feeling well, and Willow puts her head in goes above and beyond.” Terrie says my lap, I know I can get through the day.” Y Today, Terrie and her Mobility Assist as she strokes Willow’s soft head. “Life Dog, Willow, are a unique Can Do with her is fun and exciting, never a dull Did you know Can Do Canines is one of Canines team. Willow, a lively black and moment. She always wants to learn new only a few organizations that will train a white Springer, is one of Terrie’s puppies things.” person’s pet dog? To learn how you can help, visit our website at www.can-do-canines.org. Hear Those Lions Roar! On March 16, 2011, the Lions District Governors-elect from Lions Multiple District 5M visited Can Do Canines for a series of presentations, a facility tour and a delicious breakfast. The Lions learned about the various types of assistance dogs placed by Can Do Canines and heard stories about the impact these canine helpers have on the lives of our graduates.
45 Can Do Canines www.can-do-canines.org 54 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things
Worth the Wait New Teams Cyan Ogden and Lilly-hound by Jessi Hiemer Cyan Ogden is an energetic ten-year-old. She lives in the small town of Cologne, Minn. with her mom Christine, brother Channing, and grandma Joyce. She loves to read and watch movies. Cyan is also living with autism spectrum disorder, which makes it difficult for her to gauge social situations and respond correctly.
When Christine heard about the Autism Assist Dog program at Can Do Canines from a family friend in 2008, she was eager to get Cyan on the waiting list. In her application, Christine wrote “I want Matt Pruner an assistance dog who can keep Cyan safe & Mobility Assist Dog Teddy and as focused as possible. More than “Teddy is now more like a family that, we want a companion for Cyan, a member to us, and it’s hard to dog who will always be there and always remember life when he wasn’t here.” show her love and affection.” Thank You The Ogdens waited patiently for three Dog Source - Deb Carver and a half years while staff searched Puppy Raiser- Mike Ferber & Betty Otto for the perfect dog for Cyan. When Cyan and Lilly-hound See their full story at Lilly-hound, a two-year-old Labrador Christine would like to offer advice to www.can-do-canines.org/newsletter Retriever/Hound mix was donated by the individuals and families waiting for their Ottum family, staff knew she would be a assistance dog. “Be patient. There were good fit! Her foster family described her times over the last three years that we as a “wise, steady, calm, hound who loves were ready to give up, but we stuck it out kids, other dogs, and food”. Under the and I am so glad we did.” guidance of training staff, Christine and Cyan learned to work with Lilly-hound If you are one of the many donors who and to rely on her calming influence to make teams like Cyan and Lilly-hound make everyday life a little easier. possible, Christine wants you to know Even as a newly certified team, it’s easy to your donations are important. “The gift see the connection Cyan and Lilly-hound you gave us isn’t just for Cyan. Lilly- share. When Cyan tells Lilly-hound to hound is an important part of the whole “down,” she gets on the ground next to family. We’re seeing more love and her to snuggle together. Cyan is more affection in our house because she is here. social because she likes to talk about her Thank you will never be enough, but dog. When Lilly-hound brings a ball to that’s all we can say. ” Y play or seeks her out for attention, Cyan is learning to spend time doing things Y they both enjoy. With Lilly-hound’s For information on helping to make other Chad Engstrom gentle, tail-wagging encouragement, Cyan autism placements possible for those who are & Diabetes Assist Dog Hazel is walking further and with less resistance waiting, please contact Janet Cobus at Thank You than ever before. 763-331-3000 ext, 153. Dog Source - Ellen & Mel McKinnin Field Trainer- Kathy Derrick Vet Services - Pine City Animal Hospital Hear Those Lions Roar! Puppy Raiser- Stephan & Becky Hallan Foster Home- Inmates at the Minnesota Lions provide about 10% of our annual Pictured with the Governors (front row, Correctional Facility at support. Recently they raised more L to R) are graduates Cole Anderson & Faribault than $75,000 in additional funds toward Mobility Assist Dog Dixie, Terri Krake the construction of a second wing of & Seizure Assist Dog Brody, Amanda Read their story on page 3 kennels and we hope that the Lions Merton & Hearing Assist Dog Lena, and Club International Foundation (LCIF) will Executive Director Al Peters. match that in the near future for a total of $150,000. 45 Can Do Canines www.can-do-canines.org 45 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things The Cool Kid with the Cool Dog Volunteer Ben Fliearman and Kipper by Allison Schildknecht Appreciation Ben Fliearman, 9, of Bloomington, Minn. Kipper gives Ben more confidence, even is a quadruplet. “Early on, we found out in situations that used to overwhelm him. something was different with Ben.” his “When I took Ben to his first medical mother Molly says. Ben has autism and appointment with Kipper, the two things epilepsy. “We’re fairly restricted in what that came to mind were confidence and we can do.” Molly says. “Ben gets overstimulated in public easily, and he’s getting bigger and harder for me to handle when he does have a tantrum.” Ben’s dad Greg says, “We left to right: Executive Director Al Peters, Volunteer of the Year Bev DeChon, Special used to be able to throw Recognition recipient Dee Hollerud, Puppy him over our shoulders Raisers of the Year Marge & Dave Skeie, and run. Those days Foster Home of the Year Dawn Turner, are over.” Special Recognition recipient Ron Ehlert, and Volunteer Spotlight recipient Patty Wirz. “When we first More than 100 guests attended the considered getting a dog Can Do Canines Volunteer Appreciation for Ben, the thought Luncheon, held March 19, 2011 at our of coming up with the facility in New Hope, Minn. The annual funds for something like event celebrates the hard work and that was overwhelming.” dedication of more than 300 volunteers, Molly says. “There are a who make it possible for Can Do Canines lot of life expenses when Ben and Kipper to provide trained assistance dogs for you have a child with a pride.” Molly says. “I could step back people with disabilities, free of charge. disability.” Can Do Canines provides dogs and say, ‘Okay, Ben, get up on the exam to people with disabilities free of charge, Volunteer Coordinator Laurie Carlson table for the doctor’ without having to but the high demand for Autism Assist hold him physically.” she says. “Ben can comments, “We could not fulfill Dogs meant the Fliearmans waited for our mission without our fantastic, have some independence, which has to almost two and a half years to meet feel good.” The Fliearmans have seen enthusiastic volunteers. Our heartfelt Ben’s dog. thanks goes out to all of you for sharing physical improvements as well. “Ben’s gait your time and talents with us!” At last, Ben was paired with Kipper, a is much more typical when he walks with leggy Great Pyrenees mix with a fluffy Kipper. I never imagined there would If you would like to know more about white coat and a demeanor Molly calls be a physical therapy benefit to having the volunteer opportunities available “chill”. Kipper came to Minnesota him walk with a dog, but he walks more at Can Do Canines, visit our web site purposefully when he walks Kipper. at www.can-do-canines.org or contact through the Animal Humane Society and was adopted by a family with a There’s less stomping, less giant steps, Laurie Carlson at lcarlson@can-do- less stimming with his hand.” canines.org or 763-331-3000 x113. young daughter. When that family found they were expecting another child, they When asked if she and her family have decided to find Kipper a new home. tried more things with Kipper along, Kipper’s family brought him to Can Do Molly laughs, “Much more! Mall of Canines for evaluation. Client Services America... on a Saturday! That’s never Coordinator Leslie Flowers says, “I was happened before. Every time I used to amazed at how mellow he was. Their little think of doing those kinds of activities, two-year-old girl was walking him around I would cringe back and think, ‘What by the leash and she didn’t even come up about Ben?’ Even larger parks would to his head.” have overwhelmed me. Malls, baseball Molly says, “Kipper knew right away that games— we can do those things now.” Ben was ‘his boy’. I was surprised that a Kipper doesn’t attend the K-5 school dog that didn’t know us could come into with Ben, but he does walk Ben into a house with four boys, all the same age, Labs from the “C” litter attended and were school every morning and back to the car celebrated as they turned one year old. Pictured and on the first weekend gravitate to Ben. every afternoon. “Before, Ben was just are Jenn Alexander and “Carlee”, Kathryn He loves all the boys, but there’s a direct the kid who came in, who went into that Alexander and “Claire”, Sara Ehlert with relationship with Ben. If Ben is upstairs room and you didn’t see him at lunch.” “Chloe”, and Stephanie Scott with “Charity” and the other boys are downstairs, Kipper Molly says. “He was the boy who didn’t chooses to be upstairs. Those things have talk and did funny things with his hand. come very naturally.” Now kids are coming up to Ben and asking him for high-fives. He’s the cool 67 Can Do Canines www.can-do-canines.org 7 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things
kid with the cool dog. It was near Christmas Kipper’s practically when the Fliearmans New Teams become the school’s heard that their long mascot.” Molly wait was over and that recently took Ben and a dog would soon be Kipper to the second- placed with them. “I grade classroom to talk said to Ben’s brothers, about the partnership ‘You know, Ben never between Ben and his asks for anything.’ dog. “It made me We sometimes get wish I talked to them a little sad around about Ben before— Christmas and his they asked such good birthday because he questions. With Kipper can’t articulate what there, it was all the he wants. It’s to his more intriguing.” credit that he’s not materialistic!” Molly Molly has some tips laughs. “...but what a for those who might gift to finally be able to Megan Krantz consider getting an give him!” Y & Autism Assist Dog Savi Autism Assist Dog. “What Savi does for Megan so “Relax and trust the outweighs any small adjustments we bond. You don’t have had to make. It was worth the wait!” to force the bond. The things that you Thank You were afraid to do— try them. Remember Dog Source - Valorie Muggli that the dogs like to work. Finally, keep Vet Services - Valley View Pet Hospital an open mind and a clean counter!” she Puppy Raiser- Shay & Michelle Nelson laughs “You expect a perfect dog, and, Foster Home - The Sorenson Family you know, they’re very well-trained, but they are dogs. It can be pretty funny. See their full story at Kipper certainly knows the difference www.can-do-canines.org/newsletter between being in cape and being out of cape.”
Ben & Molly Fliearman and As different as it seemed at first, Molly Bill McNeely with Kipper Karen Kelly says she’s gotten used to bringing Kipper & Diabetes Assist Dog Joy as many places as possible with Ben. “I Bill McNeely helped make the Fliearmans’ “Joy didn’t just change my life - she miss Kipper when he’s not out in public dream come true by sponsoring the entire cost of changed it for all of us. My family can with us.” she says. “He clues people in placing Kipper with Ben. Can you help us make sleep soundly, knowing to the fact that there’s something bigger more dreams come true? Contact Janet Cobus at Joy is here for me.” going on with Ben, gives them a clue [email protected] or by calling 763- what we’re dealing with. Kipper’s brought 331-3000 ext. 153. Thank You us some peace that’s hard to put our Dog Source - Julie Mach finger on — not that it wasn’t a happy Vet Services - Inver Grove Heights house before, but there’s been a lift in our Animal Hospital moods. Just to be able to take walks...” Puppy Raiser- The Hiemer Family Foster Home - Inmates at Minnesota Molly glances down at the dog. “You’ve Correctional Facility at brought a sense of calm to our house, Faribault Kipper.” Read their story on page 10
67 Can Do Canines www.can-do-canines.org 7 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things Wish List Development News Dog Supplies To learn more about any Development News item, please contact Development Director Gift cards to pet supply stores Janet Cobus at 763-331-3000 ext. 153 or email [email protected] I.Click Training Clickers Car Seat Belt Harnessees – All sizes Phone-A-Thon Callers Needed Puppy Shower Halti Head Collars, sizes 2 & 3 Saturday, June 25, 2011, 2:00 –4:00 pm Martingale collars Our annual Phon-A-Thon has a goal to raise Soft Treats (BilJac, Zukes, Pupperoni) more than $20,000 to help meet our goal at Can Do Canines Giant Nylabones and lg. & med. Kongs to train and place 40 assistance dogs this “It’s a boy, a girl, another girl, L or XL Vari-Kennels, new or gently used year. Won’t you help? oh wait…another boy” Frontline Flea and Tick Preventative Contact Laurie Carlson Vi, our beautiful black Labrador, delivered Donated veterinary services her babies on April 22, 2011! We are planning Purebred puppies at lcarlson@can-do- Electronics canines.org org or a shower to welcome these special dogs into Mac computers 763-331-3000 ext. 113 puppyhood. You can bring toys, blankets, puppy (Minis, Macbooks, iMacs) to volunteer for the chew toys, and financial support to help us raise PC laptops & desktops, dual-core following dates: these puppies to be assistance dogs! We’ll also Mac OS X 10.5 licenses May 22-26, 5:30 – 9 pm have special treats and fun games for people LCD TV, 37” or larger and puppies! Don’t miss it! Home Theater system for meeting room Automotive Gasoline cards Sponsorships Needed for Can Do Canines Events Minivan Auto repair/maintenance You can make your gift to Can Do Canines more meaningful by sponsoring an important Small Station wagon activity that furthers our work. Your sponsorship gift can come from an employee Equipment group, service club, serve as a way of advertising your business, be a unique gift to Gas-powered power washer honor another person, or simply be one more reason to support our efforts. There are a 6 and 8 ft. plastic folding tables variety of opportunities and benefit levels available through these events: Office chairs Office cubicles Tails of Independence Fundraising Luncheon - $250 - $10,000 Commercial Convection Oven Graduation Sponsorship – $250 to $2,500 Exercise Bike, Eliptical, Rower Puppy Raiser Picnic Sponsorship – $500 Miscellaneous Heel and Wheel Fundraising Walk – $250 to $10,000 Industrial Shelving Fetching Ball Gala Sponsorship: $500 - $15,000 Gift cards to grocery and office supply stores Office supplies (paper, markers, stamps) Please contact Janet Cobus at [email protected] for more details. Bleach, glass cleaner, laundry detergent Framed dog-related art Building Materials Kitchen cabinets and countertop Take Me Out to the Ballgame for Holy Land Deli Coupons Bathroom storage cabinet, small Can Do Canines! Do you eat Holy Land Gift certificates home improvement stores Fourth Annual brand hummus (any Pipe and drape, black (6 - 8ft x 10 ft sections) Stage skirting, black, (24 inch x 32 ft) Saint Paul Saints flavor), tabouli and baba Sheetrock Game Fundraiser ghanouj? If so, save the Sunday, June 26 coupon on the back of Items in bold are our most pressing needs! Starts at 1:05 PM the label and send it to Can Do Canines, St. Paul Saints vs. 9440 Science Center Drive, New Hope, For more wish list items, please go to Wichita Wingnuts MN 55428. For every coupon saved www.can-do-canines.org Your $15 ticket and sent in, 25 cents will be donated to A special thanks to all of you who previously includes general admission, a Saints baseball Can Do Canines! Holy Land products are supplied us with wish list items! You made available at many local grocers including our wishes come true!Y cap, a soda and a hot dog! $5.00 of each ticket benefits our programs. Cub, Target, Kowalskis, Byerly’s, Rainbow and also at the Holy Land store Order and print tickets online at at the Midtown Global Market on Lake www.saintsgroups.com and use the password Street. What a tasty way to raise funds ‘cando’ or order tickets by phone – 651-644- for Can Do Canines! Any questions, call 6659 Janet Cobus at 763-331-3000, Ext. 153.
Can Do Canines is pleased to have Name-A-Puppy Update: NutriSource Spring has sprung for our Name-a-Puppy Program. Recent Puppy Super Premium namers include the Minnesota Women of Today, Seagate (holding Pet Foods a Spring Auction to name their fourth puppy!) and the General Motors plant in Hudson, WI with their Bowl-a-Thon. as our sponsor “Capri”, named by Three named puppies are also graduating on May 21, 2011: Savi Capri Chelgren (named by Seagate); Hamel (Hamel Lions Club); and NutriSource provides all the food for our Capri (Capri Chelgren) dogs in final training. We have puppies coming soon— join the organizations above and name a puppy by Thank you, Nutrisource, for your generous raising a minimum of $1,500 for school groups or $2,500 for a service club or business. contributions! We can help you get started today!
89 Can Do Canines www.can-do-canines.org 98 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things
Volunteer Spotlight - Sharon Steinbrecher New Teams Sharon Steinbrecher of Cedar, Minn. first Fetching Ball gala, and in house events like our discovered Can Do Canines when she attended open house and graduations. the 2007 Home & Garden Show and stopped at our booth. At one of our most important fundraisers, the Tails of Independence luncheon, Sharon has She began volunteering in 2008 with the Special served as a table captain each year since 2009. Events Fundraising Committee. She jumped She also helps out every year at our annual right in, and soon became an integral part of Phone-a-thon fundraiser. our organization. In 2009 she accepted the position of Chairperson for this committee. She We sincerely appreciate all the hard work Sharon leads the other volunteer members does on our behalf and are truly fortunate to in discovering ways to raise money have such a wonderful volunteer represent our by planning and running events organization. Thank you Sharon! Y like pancake breakfasts, dinners at What about you? California Pizza Kitchen and Cosi, Saint Paul Saints games, holding Are you willing to give the gift of your time? garage sales, and anything else We need help in the following areas: the committee can • Regular vehicle maintenance Dylan Orndorff dream up! • Facility maintenance • Puppy Raisers (14-16 months) & Autism Assist Dog Munroe Sharon has also • Foster families (2-4 weeks) “We started talking about the volunteered at • Daytime office help possibilities our family will be able to many other Can Do • Assistance with event planning experience with Dylan in the future. Canines functions Contact Volunteer Coordinator Laurie Simple things families take for granted including the Heel Carlson at [email protected] or such as going to McDonald’s; out for and Wheel dog walk, 763-331-3000 ext. 113. pizza, a movie, or walking to the park c Diana Adamson Volunteers and Puppy Raisers c The Ruppe family instead of driving, hoping Dylan did not & Paul Oberhaus Thanks to all of our volunteers and puppy raisers– we couldn’t do it without you! c Sharon Russell have a meltdown.” c c Brad & Valerie Puppy Raisers are noted by a D beside their names Shirley Russo Addis c c The Sanborn family c Sue Crone Shelly & Al Hiemer Kim Medin Ilene Ahrens Barb Sargent Thank You c Emily Danser Jack Hines Rani Melby c Jayson & Kathryn c Jerry Schendel Dog Source - Kathy Marr & Brian Klaas Kim Hodges c The Merkel family Alexander c Brian Schroeder Jan & John Day The Hollerud family Amanda Merton Vet Services - Globe University - c Mary & Jon c Dora & Howard & “Louie” Dawn Imgrund & “Lena” Alexander Schroeder Rochester c Bev & Yance Anne Ingvoldstad Marty & Randy James & Polly Allen c c The Schroeder Puppy Raiser- Mary Nelson DeChon The Johnson family Merton Tina Allwardt c family Jim Diehl Jen & Justin Kalvoda Tina Mischka Foster Home - Dora Schroeder Linda Altergott Kate Schroven cThe Dion family Mary Kelley Amy Molis Doug & Holly Fiona Schumacher c The Doyon family Karen Kelly & “Joy” Mike Molzahn Ammerman Sue Schuster See their full story at Suzanne Duckler Pat Kennedy Peter Morlock Cole Anderson c Stephanie Sherry Duggan Bill Kempton & “Guido” www.can-do-canines.org/newsletter & “Dixie” & Seth Scott & “Casper” Pete Kleingartner Linda & Doug Mosier Stacia Anderson Ken Schwartz Judy Dunbar Katherine Knauer Kim Motzko Tom Antikainen & family Elizabeth Eagle Lisa Knazan c Janie & Shauna Maddie Apold c The Sears family Laurie & Ron Ehlert Don Knutson Mullikin c Dianne & Doug Adrianna Shannon Megan Ehlert Deb Koehnen Kelly Neal Astry Judy Sharken Simon c Sara Ehlert A-Team Kohls /Maple Burt Nelson Terri Bailey Kathy Sherwood Sharon Elbert Grove c Mary Nelson c Theresa & Keith Laura Shirley c Mona Elder Ken Kolding Melinda Nelson Barnes c Marge & Dave Galen Engholm Terri Krake & “Brody” Joanne Nichols c Bill Beddie Skeie Jill & Jerry England Kim Kriesel Ron Norton & Kathy Grant The Solei family & “Hailey” Jolie & Keith Kroska c The Oeltjenbruns Mary Bente The Sorenson family The Essen family MarySue Krueger family Pat Berg Melissa Stam Jean Euteneuer Ann La Valley Wood Sean Okerlund The Bergstad family Sharon Steinbrecher & “Lexie” & family Dee Otto c Bobbi Blair c Ken & Judy Stenzel Mark Falstad Amber & Steve Dianne & Logan c Darlene Blomberg & “Calvin” c Mike Ferber LaMourea Ouradnik Kim Bloomer c Greg & Cat Stevens & Betty Otto Julianne Larsen Jenny Parker Sue & Pete Bosch c c Melanie Thielke Tom Fiecke Jeremy Larson Janice Parrow Mike Branch Brian Toews Duane Finger & Scott Henley c Kyle Pavlik Janet,Emily & Steve c The Tuenge family Kevin Florence The Larson family c Leah Pentz Bratkovich Dawn Turner Ernie & Jeanne Frie Nancy Laufer c Alan Peters Kelsey Braun c Patty Van Tammy Gatzke & “Capri” & Penny Marsala Sara Braziller Landschoot Bonnie Genin John & Bonnie Linden Linda Peterson Vern & Darlene Sandy Vance The Gibbons family Steve Linder & family Breamer Dallas Volk & family Marcia Gilman Sue Lockrem Paul Peterson & family Kathy Broten Carlos Villalpando Terrie Schrank Tim Graham Frank & Judy Loken Sandy & Jon Pidde Julia Buege Freeman Sue Wagner Laura Gregory Paul Loken Wendy Poulsen c Jean & Don Len Washko & Mobility Assist Dog Willow Savannah Gruber Liz Lucast & Mike Carter Burdeski c Laura & Adam “Dogs are really an extension of your Sue Hager & “Mattie” Jody Ludden Bob & Laura Powers Deb Burke & “Pepsi” Waudby c Steve & Becky Jan Lund Maureen Pranghofer spirit. When I’m not feeling well, and Jennifer Burt Mary Weisel Hallan Anne Mackereth & “Ally” c Bob & Mary Heidi Westerlund Willow puts her head in my lap, I know I Heidi & Steve Hamilton Stephanie Madsen Wayne Pulford Cameron c The Willms family Karin Hansen Carrie Maloney Jared Rhatigan can get through the day.” Manny Camilon Patty Wirz & “Sweetie” Christina & Nick Kirsten Purvis Julie Carlblom Jodi Ann Wisehart c Mel & Brian Hanson Martinez Jared Rhatigan Dick Carlson c Ron Wolff Read their story on page 4 c The Heffernan family The MacKay family Mary Rhatigan c Laurie Carlson & “Freckles” Dianne Hennes Kari Martin & “Ebony” c Pia & Ben Carlson Julie Yanz & “Midas” Jesse Henning Mike McCarthy Lee Roberts Fletcher Chambers c c The Herberg family Michele & Shawn The Young family & “Holly” Jessi Hiemer McLane 89 Can Do Canines Beth Cherryholmes www.can-do-canines.org 89 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things A Joyful Life Karen Kelly and Joy by Jessi Hiemer Karen Kelly of Andover, Minn., is a because she understood it was needed. mother of two whose daughters, Megan She also stopped Karen from leaving the and Mackenzie, keep her busy with their house one day. When Karen checked her activities. She enjoys spending weekends blood sugar, she realized it was dropping at the family’s cabin, gardening, and rapidly. Had Joy not been around, Karen being outdoors. Her life is often might have become disoriented while complicated by Type 1 diabetes with driving. hypoglycemic unawareness. A diabetic for 24 years, Karen is accustomed to Karen says she’s surprised how quickly checking her blood sugar up to 10 Joy fit into the family. “Joy is a very social times a day. During the past ten years, dog. She loves attention and wants to be however, her body stopped giving petted by everyone.” The whole family her the signals that used to alert her loves Joy and feels more secure knowing to dropping blood sugar levels. This she is always on duty to protect and made daily life difficult for Karen and help Karen. “We all love her, but she’s a constant source of worry for her definitely my dog. At work, even though husband and teenage daughters. she likes visiting my coworkers, she won’t let anyone distract her when she has to go “My blood sugar often gets low without through the building to retrieve my juice me knowing it.” Karen says, “I’ve had from the break room.” paramedics come to the house several times, and had a car accident due to Karen and her family would like low blood sugar. Sometimes, my kids supporters of Can Do Canines to know can’t wake me up, or we’re out in public what a special gift Joy is. “We can’t say and I don’t make sense and can’t get Karen and Joy thank you enough. Joy didn’t just change help myself. My girls have had to learn, organization provides. She decided to my life - she changed it for all of us. My the hard way, that they have to be apply for a Diabetic Assist dog with the family can sleep soundly, knowing Joy the responsible person and look after hopes of gaining a sense of security for is here for me. I’m more comfortable Mom.” The stress of being constantly her and her family. The staff at Can Do being on my own because I’m never really on alert and knowing Canines matched Karen with Joy, alone. Your hard work, donations, time, someone you love a two-year-old chocolate and energy are well spent on Joy and dogs could become very ill Labrador Retriever. like her.” Y without warning, can take its toll on the Once the pair became accustomed To help make more dogs available for people families of people to living together, Joy happily like Karen, visit us at www.can-do-canines.org. living with diabetes. settled into working with Karen. This is especially true Joy alerts her to low blood sugar for children, who levels before they are dangerous feel they have to take by pawing at Karen. Joy can also care of a parent. get juice, find help from someone else in the house, and retrieve an When her daughter, Mackenzie, got emergency phone. a flyer from Can Do Canines and suggested they attend the fundraising Joy takes her job very seriously. She’s luncheon, Karen was surprised to learn brought Karen juice without being asked about the variety of assistance dogs the Gifts In Honor Of Donated By...... In Honor Of Donated By...... In Honor Of In Honor of Alvera Franceschi’s Birthday Erin Aldrich...... Mom Jamie Lee...... Greg Lee & “AJ” The Wonder Dog Cora & Billy Quinn, Leah Golberstein, Lisa Bugman...... Sally Nelson’s Birthday! Jean Martell...... “Kiki” Nordby Roland Franceschi Donna & Sam Fasciana...... Maria Solei Leslie Matton-Flynn...... Toni Yeamans & “Reggie” In Honor of Ben Fliearman Mike Ferber...... Joshua Gene Ferber Sandra Meuwissen...... Rich Meuwissen Vicki Roe, Molly & Greg Flierman Roland Franceschi...... Sandy’s Birthday! Jay Morgan...... Susan Youngberg Alvera Franceschi...... Cindy Ness...... Kim Bloomer In Honor of Capri Chelgren’s Birthday ...... Toni Goldstein - Northridge Masonic Beryl Patner.....Lisa Knazan & Dennis Levendowski Barbara & Coy Chelgren, Karen Olesen, Roland Franceschi...... Victoria Franceschi’s Birthday Cora & Billy Quinn...... Happy Birthday Rollie Tina Nordsving, Amy & Timothy Stensrud, JoAnn & Berge Hansen...... Cindy Uhlemann Susan Russell...... Roland and Alvera Franceschi Robert & Marie Yttreness William Heegaard...... “Iken” Ellen Seesel...... The Sharken Simon Family Kimberly Hodges...... “Bishop” Philip and Joanne Susag...... John and Jan Day Lisa Knazan...... Happy Birthday Steve Arneson! Joan Willshire...... Murphy- Rev Sams
1011 Can Do Canines www.can-do-canines.org 1110 Freedom Independence Peace of Mind Our Dogs Fetch Amazing Things
Leave a Legacy New Teams Did you know that you can include Can Do Canines in your estate planning? Including us in your estate and other forms of planned giving are an important part of ensuring that Can Do Canines has the resources to continue fulfilling our mission of enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities by creating mutually beneficial partnerships with specially trained dogs. Planned gifts can be as simple as donating stock or other appreciated assets or as complex as setting up a charitable trust designed to provide tax benefits to the donor while providing income or assets to the charitable beneficiary. For more information on how you can include a planned gift for Can Do Canines in your estate planning, contact Janet Cobus at [email protected] or 763-331-3000 ext. 153.
Can Do Canines Wins a New Website Overnight Can Do Canines was one of only 18 nonprofits selected to participate in the fourth year of the Overnight Website Challenge, sponsored by Twin Cities web design firm The Nerdery. This 24-hour event matched needy nonprofits Ben Fliearman with all-volunteer teams of professional web designers and & Autism Assist Dog Kipper challenged them to build a website in a single (very long) “Now kids are coming up to Ben and day. 24 hours after our arrival, Can Do Canines and our asking him for high-fives. He’s the cool volunteer team, “Push & Run”, launched the all-new www. Superhero web team “Push & Run” kid with the cool dog. can-do-canines.org. Check it out! Our sincerest thanks go celebrates the early-morning launch Kipper’s practically become the out to the eight spectacular, sleepless web pros that made of Can Do Canines’ new website with school’s mascot.” it happen. Y Executive Director Al Peters. Thank You Donated By...... Gifts In Memory Of In Memory Of Dog Source - The Hedburg Family Harvey & Wendy Graves Alfheim...... Douglas Wendler Vet Services - Maryland Avenue Pet Betty Anderson...... “Foxy” Hospital Martha Anderson...... GRCH Ynda’s Last-Of-The-Mohicans, CGC ROM Animal Wellness Center of Maple Grove...... Puppy Raiser- The Hollerud Family ...... “Abby” Hendricks, “Chloe” Cohen, “Chloe” Parker, “Hildy” Maegi, Sponsor - Bill McNeely “Katie” Amundson, “Katrina” Deane, “Kidu” Lawrenz, “Penny” Spanagel, “Tom” Martin, “Ashley” Blashack, “Callie” Ostlund, “Cuddles” Silver, “Lenny” Rebling, “Louie” Hollenbeck, “Missie” Brooks, “Scrappy” Shoe, Read their story on page 6 “Tigger” Rostamo, “Ben” Adkins, “Buttons” Baumann, “Cloe” Anderson, “Gabby” Grzeskowiak, “Lilly” Holtz, “Sean” Abresch, “Alexx” Hafner, “Bo” Campbell, “Callaway” Moriarty, “Cheeba” Christians, “Emma” Wolf, “Loki” Carlson, “Molly” Benson, “Pedro” Morton, “Smidget” Washington, “Sinickers” Billitteri, Welcome New Staff Member “Willie” Arens, “Yang” Rosenthal Mike Branch...... “Jessie” Dora Schroeder Linda Chaffee-Hampton...... “Leah” C. Lynn & Gerald Cox ...... “Mandy” Dora Schroeder began employment at C. Lynn & Gerald Cox ...... Kirby Gordon Hanson Can Do Canines in December of 2010 as a Lois Crunstedt & Claudia and Peter Hines...... Carl Stacey Client Services Coordinator with a special Janet Dubats...... Joseph Tim Zimmerman interest in autism placements. She also Alice Engelman...... “Raven” spearheaded the Marcia Fritzmeier...... “Maddie”, “Emmy” & “Duke” Mary Gaffney...... “Roxie” Can Do Canines Bonnie Genin...... Sharon Neuerburg’s Mom breeding Mary Jo Haaland...... Lion Dennis Haaland program since Lynnette Hansen...... “Baxter” its inception Harold & Alta Hanson...... “Olivia” three years ago. Patricia & Roy B Harvey...... “Emily” the yellow lab Ann Hollick...... Basil Dora has a John & Jennifer Howe...... John Howe Junior degree in Judith Ingram...... “Samantha”, “Maya” & “Sadie” Lauren Johnson...... Leah Arneson Veterinary Margaret Johnson...... Mary Jean Sampson Technology, Dr. Nancy Kirsner, PhD...... “Simbee” Kirsner with a specialty Lisa Knazan...... “Nelly” the dog certification in Kenneth Kolarik...... Theodore Eugene, Ted Beberg Emergency and Tim Maus...... “Saga” & “Sprocket” Critical Care medicine. She and has spent Julia Miller...... “Puppy” Morris Lions Club...... David Baukol more than 20 years in the Veterinary Andriette & Keith Mortimore...... “Dusty” & “Babe” field, first at a specialty cat clinic and Sharon & James Neurburg...... Laura Kummer the Animal Emergency Clinic, then at Pat Nimmerfroh...... “Claire”, deeply missed by Anna & Tom the University of Minnesota Veterinary Marcia Passi...... Dr. Don Purnell Medical Center. Steven & Sherry Sletten...... “Tudii” Mina Stahl...... Edward Stahl When she’s not working Dora hangs out Kathleen Stark...... Rebecca Stark and her kitty “Carmel” with her husband, 4 cats and 2 dogs, or Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Foundation - Paul Loken...... Lion Keith Cherryholmes Karen Vogel...... Cisco Eagle her 11 grandchildren and 1 great- Joseph & Marilyn Zimmerman - Anoka Lions...... Tim Zimmerman grandchild! Y 1011 Can Do Canines www.can-do-canines.org 1011 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Minneapolis, MN Permit NO. 4744 Can Do Canines home of Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota 9440 Science Center Drive New Hope, MN 55428
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Graduation! Upcoming Events May 12 Tails to Tell Tour, 7:00 p.m. May 21 Graduation, 1:00 p.m. June 11 Tails to Tell Tour, 10:00 a.m. June 25 Puppy Shower, 2-4 p.m at Can Do Canines June 26 Saint Paul Saints Game Fundraiser - 1:00 p.m. August 13 Graduation, 1:00 p.m. August 27 18th Annual Heel and Wheel Walk, Join us for our favorite time of the year- 10:30 a.m., Cheshire Park at Carlson Towers Graduation! Eighteen certified teams will November 5 Fetching Ball, Earle Brown Heritage Center, accept their certificates and nylabone diplomas at 1:00 p.m. on May 21, 2011 at Brooklyn Park, MN Can Do Canines. All Tails to Tell tours take place at our facility, located at 9440 Science Center Drive, New Hope, MN 55428 Come join in the festivities! Please call our office at 763-331-3000 or email [email protected] to reserve your spot!
SAVE THE DATE! Heel and Wheel - Save The Date! Rev up your wheels and put on your walking shoes! The 18th Annual Heel and Wheel Walk will take place on Saturday, August 27 at Cheshire Come, Sit, Play! Park and Carlson Towers in Minnetonka. Saturday, November 5, 2011 Check out our website to Earle Brown Heritage Center download your pledge sheet Brooklyn Center, MN and get more ideas on how Lots of fun and surprises: to help raise funds to make Human and Canine this our biggest fundraiser Fashion Show of the year! Silent and Live Auction DogTini Bar and lots more… Stay tuned for Master of Ceremonies event updates at Natalie Kane www.can-do-canines.org WCCO-TV Morning Show Reporter