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Thankful Thanksgiving 2024

Tristan & Duke

November 26, 2024

Thankful. Yep - that about sums it up.

All year we have had the privilege of marking milestones. From our 17 years of partnership with the ODRC and 10 years at the Grafton Correctional Institution, to the 10 years of educational programming through Kids Who Can! and 20 years of service through our mission critical ODRC hosted WAGS 4 Kids service dog training programs. It is this harmony of heroic gestures that make us strong and keep us bold in our ambition to fulfill the needs of our children - anxiously waiting and forever changed by their service dog for life.

Celebrating another milestone - it was ten years ago that we began our tradition of Thankful Thanksgivings. Sitting down with our families who received their dogs in the last 12 months to reflect on the journey and ask the all important question - 'how's life?'

"Duke has helped Tristen show affection, care about someone other than himself, and have a friend to play with. We have more smiles, giggles, and he gets more exercise with Duke around. When Tristen starts to meltdown, Duke is right there for redirection and comfort. The redirection is huge with Tristen's meltdowns to prevent full on melt down and give his brain a minute to think about what is going on."

This year - we decided to combine it into one big week of Thanks & Giving. One big puppy hug of love and gratitude. From the WAGS 4 Kids families, our staff, volunteers, and every one of the lives that you touch with your belief in our programs - thank you.

Give a gift that will last their lifetime. WAGS relies on donations to help provide these dogs to kids in need. To learn more click HERE