Hi, my name is Jeanne.  I have Progressive Degenerative Spine Disease along with several other medical problems.  My Canine Helper and constant companion is “Phoenix”.  Phoenix has been with us since he was six weeks old and has become a beautiful, sweet, caring dog.   

     Thanks to Canine Helpers, I have been able to teach Phoenix to do things for me for our certification.  Phoenix helps me to do things that are painful or difficult for me to do unaided.  He helps me keep my balance when walking, getting up and down off furniture, he helps me on stairs, and helps pull me when my legs are weak, especially on inclines.  He is also a big help so I don’t slip on ice, and steadies me when I walk down our creek on the slippery rocks.  He picks objects up for me, and someday he will learn to pull a wheelchair.
Phoenix is also my best buddy – the best medicine I could have physically and emotionally.  He brings me out of my shell, as I tend to be on the shy side.   

     Canine Helpers has helped me live a more productive life and a much more fulfilled one, not only because of having Phoenix certified, but for my past two Service Dogs “Joshua” and “Matsi” who are VERY sadly missed.  None can be replaced; each dog is different.  But thankfully, their big hearts are always the same.   

     I’ve been with Canine Helpers for about 15 years now, and I can’t thank Beverly enough for her support and dedication in making independence possible for people like me.  I’d also like to thank all who work for and volunteer for Canine Helpers, and for the people who give so graciously donations to help this great organization!!  We ALL appreciate it from the bottom of our hearts.