Support Dogs, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit agency that provides assistance dogs to people with physical disabilities, and hearing dogs to those who are deaf or hard of hearing. It was founded in Columbus, Ohio, in 1981 by Sandy Maze, and is now based in St. Louis, Missouri.
Overview Service dogs are trained to perform tasks their owners cannot, such as retrieve dropped and distant objects, open doors, pull wheelchairs, and help the client get undressed.Support Dogs, Inc. Canine companions make a dramatic difference Accessed 12 January 2007
In addition, the dogs provide companionship and support. The dogs are trained by volunteers, including highly screened female prisoners in an Illinois maximum security prison.Helping Paws Accessed 12 January 2007
Embezzlement victim In 2005, Support Dogs discovered it had been a victim of embezzlement when ex-director Robert Hansen was accused of stealing over $400,000 from the organization over a period of five years. On September 9, 2005, Robert Hansen was convicted and sentenced to 24 months in prison and 36 months on supervised release.2006 Support dogs newsletter Accessed 12 January 2007
See also Hearing Dogs for Deaf People Canine Companions for Independence Can Do Canines
References
External links Official Website Dog Accessories