Support Dogs, Inc.

Support Dogs trains service dogs to perform tasks their owners cannot, such as retrieve objects, summon assistance, answer phones, or open heavy doors. 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. Support Dogs has also begun to investigate whether they can train hearing dogs.

In 2005, Support dogs discovered it had been a victim of embezzlement when ex-director Robert Hansen was accused of stealing over $400,000 dollars 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.

As of 2007, Support Dogs employs nine permanent staff, with Scot Seabaugh, President, and James Woodward, Vice President.

See also

• Canine Companions for Independence
• Paws With A Cause

References