Q: What is Canine Companions for Independence?

A: Canine Companions for Independence (CCI) is a 50l(c)(3)nonprofit organization whose mission is to serve the needs of people with disabilities by providing trained service, hearing, facility, and skilled companion assistance dogs and by providing continuing support to ensure the success of the working team.

Q: How can I learn more information about Canine Companions for Independence (CCI)?

A: Call CCI 1-800-572-2275 or visit the national website at www.cci.org.

Q: How do I apply for a Canine Companion Assistance Dog, Hearing Dog, Skilled Companion, or Facility Dog?

A: Call CCI 1-800-572-2275 or visit the national website for more information: www.cci.org.

Q: How do I become a Gold Rush Champion (GRC)?

A: You can send an email to Membership Services using the Contact Us page.

Q: Can I volunteer for CCI in the Sacramento area, with out joining the GRC?

A: You can send an email to the local Volunteer Cordinator using the Contact Us page.

Q: How is CCI funded?

A: CCI is funded by private contributions; gifts from businesses, civic groups, and service clubs; grants from corporations and foundations; and ongoing fundraising activities such as special events and mailings. CCI receives no government funding.

Q: How do I make a contribution to CCI?

A: Checks can be sent Canine Companions for Independence, PO Box 446, 2965 Dutton Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95402-0446. Or see the national website, www.cci.org, for more information.

Q: How can I get a presentation about CCI for my group, school, club or other organization?

A: You can send an email to the local Demonstration Cordinator using the Contact Us page.

Q: How can I become a puppy raiser?

A: Puppy raisers first send an application to CCI. They then must complete a phone interview and a home visit, prior to being approved. Call CCI 1-800-572-2275 and ask for an application or visit the national website www.cci.org.

Q: Who can apply for a Canine Companion?

A: People with physical or developmental disabilities who can demonstrate that a Canine Companion will enhance their independence or their quality of life are qualified to apply. Also eligible are professionals working for organizations that provide physical or mental health care to those who will benefit from interaction with a facility dog.

Q: What does it cost to receive a Canine Companion?

A: There is no charge for Canine Companions. Team Training candidates pay only a $100 Team Training registration fee that is reimbursed in supplies. There is no charge for the substantial costs involved in breeding, raising and training each Canine Companion.

Q: What are the responsibilities of the person or facility receiving a Canine Companion?

A: Each applicant must successfully complete a two-week educational course at the regional center designed to match the person and dog ad to prepare them to work together successfully. Each applicant is also responsible for the proper care, feeding, housing, and medical needs of the canine. The dog must be used in the working capacity for which it was carefully bred and trained.

Q: What breeds of dogs does CCI use?

A: CCI primarily uses golden retrievers and Labrador retrievers, most of which come from CCI's selective breeding program. Occasionally donated puppies are accepted if they meet the strict qualification requirements.

Q: Where does CCI get its dogs?

A: Most dogs come from CCI's selective breeding program. Occasionally donated puppies are accepted if they meet the strict qualification requirements.

Q: How long does a Canine Companion work?

A: The average service life of each dog is eight years. After that time the dog is retired and may become the graduates household pet or be returned to its puppy raiser to live out its golden years.

Q: How can I adopt a dog that was released from the CCI program as my pet?

A: Contact CCI at 1-800-572-BARK and request an application to adopt change of career (COC) dog. As you can imagine there is a very long waiting list for these dogs. Each year you will have to confirm your interest in receiving a dog in order to remain on the waiting list. Every so often the waiting list may be closed to new additions because of the large number of applicants. There is an application fee and if you are being considered for a COC dog there will be an interview and a visit to Santa Rosa required. Dogs are not placed on a first come first serve basis. Every dog is unique as is every home environment. CCI works to make the perfect match between the two so that chances of success are high.

Q: I have a great picture, comments or information for or about this web site, who to I contact?

A: You can send an email to the Webmaster using the Contact Us page.