Social Distancing With Companions

May 13, 2020

In these times of social distancing to slow the spread of the coronavirus, people with disabilities depend on their service dogs more than ever. Thanks to Canine Companions for Independence, they’re being provided with these helpers for free.

The nonprofit has six regional training centers across the country. There are still more than 400 people with disabilities waiting to be matched, and the organization’s mission is to get them the dogs they need.

Norfolk resident Patricia Coale told News 3 Tuesday that she’s very thankful for the company of her service dog, Agent, who she received from the organization.

Agent helps Coale each day by performing more than 40 advanced commands. He can open and close doors, pick up dropped items and even turn light switches on and off for her – and that’s just a few of the things he’s able to do!

“Being that we’re at home all the time, it’s just really nice to have a companion that wags in the morning when I wake up, glad to see me… doesn’t get disturbed by the pandemic, that sort of thing,” said Coale.

Dogs provided by Canine Companions go to veterans, adults, and children.

And lucky for us, they’ve come up with a great way to take our mind off of the coronavirus. Right now, they’re streaming a live Puppy Cam!

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