CANINES FOR CHANGEf

Canines for Change provides highly trained service and facility dogs that enhance the lives of children and adults with disabilities—empowering them to lead active, independent lives. We also educate communities on the benefits of service dogs through outreach, school programs, and ongoing support.

Canines for Change was founded in 2005 by Dr. Nikki Brown, a school psychologist in the Lansing School District. After witnessing how her Corgi positively impacted students with special needs, Dr. Brown began training dogs to support children at home as well.

In 2014, the Epilepsy Association of Western and Central Pennsylvania (EAWCP) began sponsoring seizure-response dogs through its Oscar Project, a partnership that continues today.

By 2018, Canines for Change placed its first veteran service dog team, launching an ongoing effort to provide service dogs to veterans at no cost.

In 2021, the Grand Ledge Public School District partnered with Canines for Change to place facility dogs in all nine of its school buildings.

Since then, the facility dog program has taken root not only in schools, but also in mental health centers, child advocacy organizations, and additional Michigan school districts—with more partnerships growing each year.

Since its founding, Canines for Change has trained and placed dogs for seizure alert, diabetes, mobility support, autism assistance, and facility work—serving clients and communities across the country.