Canines With a Cause Foundation

OUR MISSION
Canines With a Cause (CWAC) pairs rescued dogs with veterans affected by PTSD, TBI, and MST, offering complimentary, personalized training classes to become psychiatric service dog teams.

WHY WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT THIS YEAR
We've faced significant challenges this year, mainly due to the loss of our Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program (WWSDP) research grant. This funding has been vital to our organization as well as 27 other organizations across 23 states. 

YOUR DONATIONS MAKE A DIFFERENCE

$20 - Training Supplies
Supplies new program veteran with a treat pouch and training treats

$50 - Welcome Package
Supplies new CWAC dog with a new leash, collar, bowls and toy

$150 - Meals & Medicine
Funds a month's worth of food and needed medication for one CWAC dog

$200 - Health Package
Funds vaccinations and spay/neuter for one CWAC dog

$1,000 - Mental Health Matters
Sponsors mental health support by a Licensed Clinical Social Work/Therapist for one class of veterans

$5,000 - Service Dog Training
Funds Foundational Training for one veteran class

Current program veteran team, Nick & Puzzola

Donors like you help keep our psychiatric service dog program FREE for all veterans. You also help cover trainer, veterinary, and facility costs.

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ABOUT OUR PROGRAM

IT ALL STARTED 15 YEARS AGO...
In 2010, Canines With a Cause (CWAC) began its journey as an "Animal Assisted Therapy" program at Friends of Animals, Utah, now known as Nuzzles, in Summit County, Utah. Witnessing the powerful bond between companion animals and individuals healing from trauma, CWAC identified an opportunity to pair rescued animals with veterans in need. As the demand for trained service dogs to support veterans with invisible wounds grew, CWAC transitioned into an independent nonprofit organization in May 2011.

For CWAC, the mission was clear: 
utilize the untapped potential of shelter dogs and train them to assist qualified veterans.

Today, CWAC remains a vital resource for veterans in Park City and beyond, standing out as one of the few organizations in the area dedicated to serving those who have served. 

SOURCING FURRY FRIENDS LOCALLY
CWAC identifies suitable canine candidates from local and out-of-state shelters and rescue organizations, such as South Salt Lake Animal Services. They are evaluated for behavior, health and overall temperament. After CWAC adopts the canine candidate and assumes responsibility, a commitment is made to find that dog a forever home, regardless of whether they complete our service dog program or not.

Trainer Harleigh adopts CWAC's newest candidate, Molly

POSITIVE TRAINING METHODS
When matching a dog with a veteran, we carefully consider the veteran's personality, needs, and lifestyle to ensure a harmonious partnership. If a veteran already has a dog, we assess whether the dog is suitable for our program. 

Once a veteran is paired with a dog, they form a service team and attend weekly training classes, embarking on a transformative journey together. 

For veterans, learning to train their dog helps develop emotional coping skills and resiliency. CWAC aims to foster a strong bond using positive training methods that are enjoyable for the dog and healthy for the veteran.

Learn more about Canines With a Cause by visiting our website www.canineswithacause.org

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LOCAL PARK CITY HERO

Oliver and the cutest tripod around, Tasha

"I went through Canine With a Cause's program nearly 5 years ago. Since then, I have been on the Board of Directors so I can continue to give back to such a great organization."

- Oliver Tsuya, Program Vet and CWAC Board Member