🐾 Canine Connections Rescue & Therapy Program

A Second Chance at a Brighter Future — for Youth and Dog

This program is run and staffed by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) and supported by caring community volunteers like you.

For many of the youth, this is their first bonding experience with an animal—and perhaps with anyone. It may be the first time they’ve found a living, breathing creature that accepts and loves them unconditionally, without judgment, neglect, or abuse.

The Canine Connections Rescue & Pet Therapy Program improves the lives of at-risk youth by promoting mental and emotional growth while providing a potential future vocation. It serves as a powerful starting point for learning to love, trust, and build healthy relationships.

While the focus is on giving the youth a second chance at a brighter future, the bond formed between the dogs, their juvenile trainers, and the dogs’ eventual adoptive families inspires hope and healing for everyone involved.

How You Can Help

Volunteer Your Time
Join weekday classes from 3:00 – 5:00 PM to work directly with the youth and dogs on training sessions, or help on weekends with feeding and cleaning.

Volunteer with Your Group
Gather friends, coworkers, or a service group to help maintain the yards and kennels—an essential part of keeping this program running smoothly.

Donate Supplies
The dogs and trainers rely on community support for everyday needs:
Treats, sturdy chew toys, calming aids, crates, leashes, AirTags, biodegradable poop bags, flea treatments, and dog food are always appreciated.
➡️ Click HERE for the Amazon Wish List

Adopt a Rescue Dog
When the youth have finished training a dog, adoption offers the next chapter of love and trust—for both the dog and its new family.

📞 To volunteer or donate:
Call 425-831-2564 or email canineconnectionsrescue@gmail.com