Canine Companions for Independence’s mission is to provide highly-trained assistance dogs to adults, children, and veterans with disabilities free of charge.
Through an event at Lake Lily in Maitland (just North of Orlando), money will be raised to provide these dogs to loving owners who need them. The dogs will gather from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Saturday, giving Knights enough time to surround themselves with dogs in the morning and return to campus for the final UCF Football home game at 8 p.m. at Bright House Networks Stadium.
Founded in 1975, the non-profit organization “enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships.”
UCF students have taken part in DogFest – donations to the cause can be made here.
Want to bring your dog?
Under these guidelines for pet and assistance dogs, you can:
- No female dogs in heat.
- Dogs attending must be social and friendly with other dogs and people.
- Dogs attending must be comfortable in crowds.
- Dogs must be up to date on vaccinations. This means puppies must be over 4 months old and have completed their full set of puppy vaccinations, including rabies.
- All dogs must be kept on a leash, no longer than 6 feet, at all times.
- Dogs must be ready to have a good time, exhibited by lots of tail wagging!
- Dogs who display aggressive behavior, as determined by Canine Companions volunteers or staff, will be asked to leave.
Knight News will be at the Lake Lily to bring the dogs to you if you can’t make the event – stay tuned for a photo gallery.
