Who we help

David and Tessie

Please note that we are not currently accepting applications for a canine partner. Read a message from our CEO here.

Our assistance dogs are trained to meet the needs of individuals with even the most complex physical disabilities. We currently help adults aged 18 and over (both civilians and former service personnel) who have a physical disability or condition that affects their daily life and limits their independence.

Some of the disabilities and conditions we work with are:

  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Spinal injuries and head injuries
  • Stroke
  • Osteoarthritis and scoliosis
  • Arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
  • Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
  • Friedrich’s ataxia
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Muscular dystrophy
  • Spina bifida
  • Osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bones)

We are working in partnership with Help for Heroes, The Royal British Legion and other services organisations to provide assistance dogs for veterans and those wounded in service.

People who are not eligible to apply

Canine Partners’ primary focus is to help adults with physical disabilities. This means that sadly we do not provide assistance dogs to:

  • People under the age of 18
  • Those whose sole reason for applying relates to epilepsy, autism, dementia or mental health issues

For more information about other assistance dog charities that may be able to help people with these disabilities, please visit our assistance dog charities information page.

Some of our amazing partnerships

There are hundreds of disabled people across the UK partnered with our dogs, each with a different story to tell about how their lives have been enhanced by our amazing canine partners.

See more from our blog