Local support dogs rewarded with free food and treats for a year

A pair of good dogs at Caribou Child & Youth Centre are being rewarded for their efforts in providing comfort to children and youth.

Facility Support Dogs Pluto and Sky have been awarded a Companions for Change feeding sponsorship from Pet Valu, with the costs of all their food and treats fully covered for one year.

The four-legged friends help young people navigate the criminal justice system by offering emotional comfort and companionship during police disclosures and court testimonies.

“Facility Support Dogs’ days are long and exhausting. Unlike typical dog guides who live with and assist one handler for many years, each day Pluto and Sky come to work; they are introduced to a new client, must quickly adjust to their individual needs, and then support them through lengthy criminal investigations or court proceedings,” says Nicole Bockus, Program Coordinator at Caribou Child and Youth Centre.  “Pluto and Sky are only able to do their jobs if they have the right nutrition to meet their daily energy and nutrient requirements.”