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Warrior Canine Connection enlists recovering Warriors in a therapeutic mission of learning to train service dogs for their fellow Veterans.
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Warrior Spotlight: Angela Bonanno Finds Healing Through Service and Dogs

July 15, 2025

Angela Bonanno is the kind of person who makes you wonder if there’s anything she doesn’t do.  

She’s a mom, a wife, a dog lover, an X-ray and MRI tech and a Coast Guard Veteran. And now, she’s training to become a Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) Team Leader and preparing to raise her first Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) service dog in training. 

It’s a life full of movement and purpose—traits that first led Bonanno to military service. But behind her drive and positivity are the lasting, invisible wounds she carries from that time. Her journey from injury to healing has been long—and ongoing—but throughout it all, a deep commitment to service has remained her compass. 

“9/11 played a major role in my decision to join the Coast Guard,” she says. “I was in college when the towers fell, and it changed everything. A month later, I was in the recruiter’s office enlisting—I felt a strong pull to do something that truly mattered.” 

Bonanno served for six years, including aboard the U.S. Cutter Jarvis and at Sector San Francisco, where she worked as an electrician. But it was during her time at sea that everything changed. A military sexual trauma and traumatic brain injury altered the course of her life—and her career. 

She was discharged in November 2007. What followed was one of the darkest chapters of her life. 

“I felt completely lost,” she says. “The first year out was brutal. I didn’t know where to turn. I had no direction, and I was in pain—emotionally and physically.” 

Then she found the Wounded Warrior Project. 

“I started with baby steps,” she says. “Just showing up to events, meeting other Veterans who got it. That connection saved me.” 

WWP introduced her to a supportive community—and to Warrior Canine Connection. Dogs, as it turns out, had always been part of her story. 

“I grew up with Labs. After my first therapy stay at the Menlo Park VA in 2010, I met some of the service dogs on site and just fell in love,” she recalls. “There’s always been a dog in my life helping me stay grounded.” 

In 2024, Bonanno participated in WCC’s Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) program at the Menlo Park VA, where Veterans help train future service dogs for fellow Warriors. 

“I didn’t realize how much I was missing until I started working with the WCC dogs. My mood shifted. I felt calmer, more present. I knew then—I wanted to raise one of these dogs.” 

That dream is now coming true. Angela has completed puppy-sitter training and will soon become a WCC Puppy Raiser. She and her family are preparing to welcome Rudy, a service dog in training, into their home. Her 3-year-old daughter Gianna is equally excited. 

“She’s obsessed with dogs,” Bonanno laughs. “She makes report cards for the Puppy Raisers and brings them to training sessions. She’s going to be the best helper.” 

Her husband, Robert, a firefighter, is fully onboard. WCC puppies have even visited his fire station. 

As if that weren’t enough, Bonanno is also training to become a WWP Team Leader, which will allow her to host peer-support events and help guide other Veterans on their own paths to healing. 

“I’ve been through it—I am still going through it,” she says. “But now I know how to navigate it, and I want to help other Veterans find that light too.” 

That’s exactly what WWP and WCC have given her: belonging, purpose and hope. Whether through raising service dogs, mentoring others, or simply showing up, Bonanno is committed to continuing her mission of service. 

“Service was what led me into the military,” she says. “And service is what’s helping me heal. This is the next chapter, and it’s a good one.”
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Intern John’s “Chuy Forever” comedy to support WCC

May 27, 2025

Radio personality Intern John from HOT 99.5 is bringing the funny—and the heart—with three special comedy shows in honor of his beloved dog, Chuy. After losing Chuy earlier this year, Intern John wanted to find a meaningful way to celebrate his legacy. Enter “Chuy Forever”—a weekend of laughs benefiting Warrior Canine Connection and its mission to train highly skilled service dogs for Veterans.

Catch him live in Arlington, Virginia on Friday, June 20, and for two more shows on Saturday, June 21. Since 2017, Intern John has raised more than $100,000 to support Veterans. Don’t miss the chance to laugh for a great cause—get your tickets now at InternJohnComedy.com.
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New Faces at WCC: Sheila Jackson and Vivian Leven

May 19, 2025

As summer approaches, we’re excited to share two new faces who have joined the WCC team in recent months. Each brings valuable experience and a shared commitment to our mission. Take a moment to get to know them—and join us in welcoming them to the pack!

Sheila Jackson
Please join us in welcoming Sheila to WCC—this time in a new role as part-time Government Contracts Specialist! While this may be her official title, Sheila is no stranger to the WCC family. She’s been a devoted volunteer since 2017, helping as a puppy sitter, puppy raiser and whelping box volunteer. She and her husband Gerry, a retired U.S. Coast Guard Reserve Commander, are also proud pup parents to WCC’s Andrea.

Sheila brings decades of experience in government contracting and business development, including leading large-scale programs supporting the Department of Labor and managing wellness programs for federal agencies. Most recently, she worked with 4S-Silversword, where she managed WCC’s Animal-Assisted Therapy contract at the National Intrepid Center of Excellence (NICoE) at Walter Reed—the very same program she’ll now support directly as WCC steps into the prime contractor role.

Sheila comes from a proud military family, with a father who served as a WWII Army paratrooper and brothers who graduated from West Point and the Naval Academy, making her commitment to serving Veterans deeply personal.

“I love WCC because I see the direct and powerful impact the dogs and this mission have on Veterans and their families—including mine,” she says. “It’s an honor to support this work.”

Outside the office, you’ll find Sheila traveling with Gerry to visit their daughters, hiking, training her dogs or volunteering with her church.

 

Vivian Leven
We’re pleased to welcome Vivian Leven as our newest Service Dog Training Instructor supporting the Northern Virginia (NoVa) region. Based at Fort Belvoir, Vivian joined WCC in February and is already making an impact by combining her deep experience in dog behavior and training with a passion for helping people.

Originally from Sweden, Vivian has called Alexandria, Virginia home for more than 20 years. Her career began in animal welfare policy and research, and a chance adoption of a behaviorally challenged Doberman set her on a path to becoming a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Behavior Consultant. She went on to lead training programs, run her own consulting business, and even served as a court-certified mediator focusing on sensitive family and youth cases. Whether she’s training dogs, supporting Veterans, or finding resolution in high-stakes situations, Vivian brings compassion, insight, and steady leadership to everything she does.

“I joined WCC because I love the idea of combining the people side with the animal side,” Vivian says. “There’s always more to learn. Dogs are incredibly present — they draw us into the moment with their honesty. People wear many masks, but dogs are just who they are.”

Vivian shares her life with her daughter Isolde, two dogs, two cats and two horses.
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At the Ready: Ralphie and WCC Facility Dogs

May 14, 2025

When new clients walk into Patriots Law Group, they’re often met by Ralphie—a calm, attentive Labrador Retriever with a soothing presence and an innate ability to read a room. She’s not just the office dog. Ralphie is a Facility Dog, trained and placed by Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) to provide comfort, connection and calm in high-stress settings where Veterans live, work or receive care. 

At Patriots Law Group, where Ralphie reports to work with managing attorney and Air Force Veteran Mike Lyons, she offers stress relief and grounding to both clients and staff.  

“Having Ralphie on site, especially with potential clients in the exploratory phase, immediately takes the edge off and calms the room,” says Lyons. “It’s probably also something that helps people connect to us as a firm outside of the legal issue.” 

But Facility Dogs like Ralphie aren’t just friendly office companions, they are highly trained working dogs with a specific job to do. And while they provide some of the same emotional benefits as Service Dogs, they serve a very different purpose. 

Unlike Service Dogs, Facility Dogs like Ralphie don’t have public access rights under the ADA. They’re only allowed in places connected to their handler’s job—like an office or specific worksite. 

In her role at the law firm, Ralphie greets guests, lounges in meeting rooms and offers quiet companionship to those navigating legal challenges. She instinctively knows when to engage and when to hang back, settling under Lyons’ desk when it’s time to work, or offering a warm nuzzle when tensions are high. 

“She’s got a great read on people,” says Lyons. “She engages when it’s welcome, and she steps back when it’s time to be quiet.” 

Warrior Canine Connection has placed Facility Dogs in a range of environments, including the Frederick Veteran Services Center, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department, Veterans Treatment Courts and a Veteran homeless shelter. These dogs are matched with primary handlers—often Veterans, military spouses or professionals who work in Veteran-serving roles—who take the dogs home each night and bring them to work each day. 

While Facility Dogs complete the full training cycle the way their Service Dog counterparts do, they typically chose their career path after showing signs of stress in constantly changing environments. However, they thrive in familiar environments and enjoy interacting with people of all ages. Their role isn’t to perform specific disability-related tasks, but to enhance well-being, relieve stress and foster a more welcoming, relaxed environment. 

Lyons sees that firsthand every day.  

“Everyone in both of our offices knows her, and people are always asking if she’ll be in that day,” he says. “Staff love to see her, clients connect with her—it’s hard to explain how big a difference she makes until you’ve seen it.” 

Outside of work, Ralphie is an integral part of the Lyons’ family. His daughters Nora and Abby, 8 and 6, adore her. Whether it’s a walk through the neighborhood or snuggling on the couch for movie night, Ralphie is always by their side. 

“She’s a great family dog,” says Lyons. “She’s their best friend.” 

She’s been good for Lyons, too. A self-described Type A personality, he says Ralphie forces him to take short breaks—whether it’s a walk outside, a stretch away from his desk or just a few quiet minutes. 

“Before Ralphie, I probably wouldn’t have stopped working all day. Now I have to get up, take a break, move around. It’s helped more than I expected,” said Lyons. 

Facility Dogs like Ralphie are quietly reshaping the environments they serve—bringing compassion and calm to places where it’s needed most. And while their work might go unnoticed by some, the Veterans and teams they serve feel their impact every day. 

Warrior Canine Connection is currently accepting applications for new Facility Dog placements. Ideal applicants include Veteran-focused offices or programs with a stable, dog-friendly environment and the ability to meet the dog’s daily care and structure needs. 

To learn more or apply to bring a WCC Facility Dog to your organization, reach out to wccdog@warriorcanineconnection.org.
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New Faces at WCC: Sue Watson

March 25, 2025

Please join us in welcoming Sue Watson to Warrior Canine Connection’s pack! A dedicated advocate for Veterans and a WCC Puppy Raiser, Sue brings a deep passion for service and a commitment to making a difference.

Sue is WCC’s new Area Program Manager & Service Dog Training Instructor at our Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania location, where she supports Veterans and Puppy Parents at Duquesne University. As the daughter of WWII Marine Sergeant Jack Watson, Sue has always been deeply connected to the Veteran community. She practices what she calls “upstream, compassion-first” advocacy—listening to the needs of Veterans and their families, connecting them to resources, and creating pathways for growth and resilience.

“This brings together two of my greatest passions,” says Sue. “Dogs and Veterans just go together. Being part of WCC allows me to support both in a meaningful way, and I couldn’t be more excited.”

Many in the WCC family already know Sue as a dedicated Puppy Raiser, having started with WCC’s Retzer and now raising WCC’s Jimmy Stewart. A lifelong dog lover, Sue found her passion for service dogs after losing her beloved Golden Retriever, Eli, a trained therapy dog. Wanting to continue making a difference, she became Pittsburgh’s first Puppy Raiser, embracing WCC’s mission to support Veterans through the healing power of dogs. And now, we’re proud to have her as a member of our team.

Outside of work, Sue enjoys hiking and spending time outdoors, catching up with friends over coffee, and helping others in any way she can. A retired teacher, she also has a love for antiques, upcycling and fitness—especially kettlebell workouts. Please join us in welcoming Sue to the WCC team!

 

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Fur-Ever a Part of WCC: Ann Iwancio’s Next Adventure

March 25, 2025

Warrior Canine Connection is saying farewell to one of its finest—or at least, we’re pretending to. Ann Iwancio may be retiring from her official role, but if you think that means she’ll disappear, think again. Whether it’s training sessions with WCC’s Ami, a special event or just finding an excuse to swing by the Healing Quarters, Ann will still be a part of WCC’s heartbeat. Because for Ann, working at WCC isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. And some callings don’t come with an off switch.

Ann’s journey with WCC started in 2017 when she volunteered before officially joining the team in a fulltime capacity in 2021. Her passion for WCC’s mission was immediate and unwavering, fueled by both her lifelong love of dogs and her own experience in the U.S. Army.

Ann’s story starts in Buffalo, New York, where she enlisted in the Army in 1985. Her career took her from basic training in South Carolina to Panama during the Noriega build-up, just prior to the U.S. invasion, followed by years of intelligence work at Fort Meade and Fort Belvoir. She spent 13 years on active duty, reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant before transitioning to the Reserves, where she continued serving at the Defense Intelligence Agency. Oh, and she also did summer stints at the American Embassy in Paris, because Ann never does anything halfway.

While at Fort Meade, she met John, her husband of 30 years, a fellow Army Veteran and intelligence officer. Together, they’ve built a life full of adventure, a wonderful son, John, and, of course, their love of dogs.

John jokes that WCC stole Ann’s heart in much the same way that fur stole her furniture. For someone who always had small, non-shedding dogs, jumping into the world of Labrador Retrievers was, quite literally, a hairy situation. As John puts it, “She’s come a long way from having loose hair in the house. We just buy a new vacuum every year—it’s on a revolving gift list.”

Ann quickly became an integral part of WCC, helping to train service dogs for Veterans and working closely with both the dogs and their future handlers. She also did a lot of work establishing WCC’s Northern Virginia (NOVA) office at the VFW in Occoquan, Va., which has since moved to Fort Belvoir.

“I started working with Ann as part of the Big Dog Study while we were all in the throes of Covid,” said Sarah Olson, NOVA program manager & service dog training instructor. “Even from those first days when we were working behind our masks and face shields, Ann’s dedication to Veterans and to WCC was evident. She takes WCC’s mission to heart and her passion and commitment to helping our nation’s Veterans shows in every session she leads and every dog she trains. That dedication to Veterans and the MBTR program was the foundation on which the NOVA program was built and on which it will continue to thrive because of her efforts. It has been a privilege working with Ann and she will be missed!”

According to WCC Veteran Liaison Sarah DelCore, Ann was a secret weapon for the Client Services Team.

“If she worked with a Veteran who was on the waitlist in Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR), she’d share insights on their handling style and which dogs they connected with best,” said Sarah. “She even recruited several MBTR Veterans to the client list, spending time making sure they knew they deserved a WCC dog.”

At WCC’s Graduate Retreat, Ann was known for tackling back-to-back public access recertification tests, ensuring that teams were set up for success.

“She’s not just a dog lover, or a Veteran herself, but a true believer in WCC’s No-Fail Mission,” Sarah added. “She will be missed as an employee, but I know we’ll see her around as a volunteer. She can’t resist puppies for too long.”

Beyond her official duties, Ann has been a rock to her colleagues and friends. Cheryl Bingham, WCC’s volunteer program assistant and Ann’s best friend, recalls how their bond grew through long car rides to training classes.

“She’s just always been there for me for anything and everything,” Cheryl shared. “When I was in the hospital for a month, she showed up every single day. That’s who she is.”

Ann’s ability to connect extends to both people and dogs. “She always tries to understand them,” Cheryl says. “She’s never harsh in tone and is always forgiving—of both humans and dogs—and that makes her an incredible trainer.”

When asked to describe Ann in three words, Cheryl didn’t hesitate: “Loyal, humble, authentic. What a friend is supposed to be.”

Ann and John are ready for their next chapter—one that includes more time together, a few home projects and maybe (if John gets his way) a new (smaller) boat. Ann’s green thumb will get its full due, as she continues tending to her spectacular flower beds and window boxes—works of art that stop passersby in their tracks.

John, who recently retired after 55 years of service (26 in an Army uniform and 29 as a civilian), knows his wife isn’t going to slow down entirely.

“Even though she’s retired, her calling is still there,” said John. “She truly loves it. Any time she’s out in public with WCC’s Amy, she’s talking to people about the mission, sharing stories and educating them about the incredible work WCC does. She’s the best ambassador we could ask for, and she’s still volunteering anytime anybody needs her.”

Ann, WCC won’t be the same without you on staff—but we also know we won’t have to miss you for long. We know you’ll be at training, at events and of course, sneaking in some puppy kisses. Enjoy this next chapter with John, knowing that your impact will be felt for years to come. You may be off the payroll, but you’ll never be off our radar.

Cheers to your next adventure!

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Hearts in Sync: The Bond Between Dogs and Humans

January 30, 2025

At WCC, we’ve always believed the bond between humans and dogs goes far beyond companionship—it’s a connection built on love, trust and healing. A new study, “Behavioral and emotional co-modulation during dog–owner interaction measured by heart rate variability and activity,” reveals that during interactions, the hearts of dogs and their owners actually synchronize, beating in unison as if connected by an invisible thread of understanding.

This February, as we celebrate love and connection for Valentine’s Day, this discovery is a beautiful reminder of the power of the human-canine bond. For the veterans and Service Members we support, this heart-to-heart relationship with their service dogs is more than emotional—it’s transformative. Together, they show us how love, in its purest form, can truly heal and unite. Read more about the study in PsyPost.

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Puppy Love Printables

January 29, 2025

Unleash the love this Valentine’s Day with WCC’s adorable, service dog-inspired printable cards—free to download and perfect for dog lovers of all ages! Whether you’re looking for a fun activity for kids, a thoughtful touch for classrooms, or a sweet surprise for friends and coworkers, these paw-some designs are sure to make tails wag. Just click here, download, print and share the love!

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Forging Unbreakable Bonds: How WCC’s Juanita Brought Two Families Together

November 26, 2024

When the Smith family first met Juanita, a Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) dog who decided a service dog career wasn’t for her, they immediately knew she was the perfect match. What they didn’t expect was that Juanita would not only help them navigate the unique challenges of military life but also bring them an unexpected friendship with her puppy raiser, Diane Cadenhead, and her family.

Named in honor of Lt. Col. Juanita Warman—a nurse practitioner and Army Veteran who tragically lost her life in the 2009 Fort Hood shooting—Juanita came into Diane’s life in 2020. From just eight weeks old, Diane raised and socialized her, even through the unique challenges of the pandemic. Diane watched Juanita grow and train as she prepared for her eventual role with a military family, forming a close bond with the young dog along the way.

“She holds such a special place in my heart,” Diane shared. “Military families sacrifice a lot for our country, and I saw that firsthand with the Smiths.”

After completing her training, Juanita was matched with the Smiths, a military family of four stationed far from extended family and accustomed to relocating. The first time Taylor and Cassie Smith and their two young children, Colby and Kendall, met Diane and Juanita, they were struck by Diane’s warmth and by Juanita’s impressive abilities.

“Diane immediately felt like someone who was meant to be part of our lives,” said Cassie. “She brought toys and puzzles to show us what Juanita could do, and she was so thoughtful with our kids.”

That initial meeting marked the beginning of an enduring friendship. Diane invited the Smiths over for visits as Juanita’s adoption day approached, treating them to pizza nights and sharing more training tips. Over time, Diane became an essential part of the Smiths’ support system.

As Cassie noted, “Being military, we don’t have family nearby. People we meet along the way become our family, and Diane became family to us.”

Their bond only grew when Taylor, Cassie’s husband, was deployed to Africa. With Taylor overseas, Diane often checked in, inviting Cassie and the kids over and even helping with activities. Diane’s home became a second sanctuary for the Smith children and Juanita, who relished every visit.

“It’s funny to watch Juanita when we’re there,” Cassie laughed. “She doesn’t know who to follow—Diane or me!”

The sense of shared family was apparent to both sides. Diane, who has raised several WCC dogs over the years, said, “I don’t have grandchildren yet, but I felt an immediate connection with Cassie and her kids. I’ve never had a family feel like this before; they’re just incredibly special to me.”

When the Smiths faced long separations and tough days, Juanita provided unwavering comfort. Cassie recounted how Juanita’s intuitive understanding of emotions made a difference in their family’s daily life, especially during her husband Taylor’s deployment.

“Juanita has an incredible ability to sense when any of us are having a bad day or are under stress. She’ll come over and offer herself up for belly rubs and snuggles, and she’s especially been a comfort to our kids.”

Juanita’s influence extended beyond the Smith family, bringing moments of joy to others in their orbit. During a visit to Diane’s family in West Virginia, Diane arranged a special meeting between Juanita and the sister of her namesake, Juanita Warman. As they shared memories and celebrated the namesake’s legacy, it was clear that Juanita’s impact reached far beyond her immediate role as a family support dog.

Now stationed in Spain, the Smiths are continuing to share Juanita’s unique gifts with others. Juanita has become a volunteer with a local Red Cross PAWs program, providing companionship and comfort to service members stationed abroad. Cassie noted that even thousands of miles away, Diane remains a vital part of their lives.

“We text all the time, sharing updates and photos. She’s still very much a part of Juanita’s life, and we’re so grateful.”

For Diane, seeing Juanita’s ongoing impact affirms her dedication to WCC’s mission.

“Every dog has a purpose, and Juanita’s purpose is clear: she’s here to bring comfort, connection, and joy. I couldn’t be more proud of her, or of the family she’s helped bring into my life.”

As the Smiths continue their journey overseas with Juanita, they carry with them the love and support of a family they never expected. Back home, Diane treasures the bond that a loyal, joyful dog built between two families. And while she’s not booking her ticket just yet, Diane’s hinted at a future trip to Spain, where a heartfelt reunion and plenty of tail wags await.

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New Faces at WCC – December 2024

November 20, 2024

Please join us in welcoming three “new faces” to Warrior Canine Connection (WCC). Desiree Kirby, Kayla Prince and Laura Osborne all joined our pack this fall. We’re happy to introduce you to each of them below.

Desiree Kirby, Business & Human Resources Manager

Desiree may be new to our team, but she’s no stranger to WCC; She began raising service dog in training, Dash, last year. Originally from Northeast Ohio, Desiree followed her passion for wildlife and the environment to Maryland, earning her degree in Environmental Science & Policy from the University of Maryland in 2010.

Before joining us, Desiree honed her skills with the U.S. Army at their Veterinary Treatment Facility in Washington and in private practices across Virginia and Maryland. She excelled in leadership, technical management, and creating meaningful relationships within her teams and communities. Desiree’s connection to WCC runs deep, having worked closely with us while at Olney-Sandy Spring Veterinary Hospital.

“The team has been great, everybody has been so welcoming and just a joy to work with, it’s refreshing. I’m just really happy to be here, honestly. Raising a service dog has given me a level of patience that I never knew I had.”

She lives in Germantown with her husband Mike, an animal keeper at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, their Border Collie named Ticket and WCC’s Dash. They also care for an impressive array of reptiles. When not working, you’ll find Desiree hiking, traveling and baking, which she shared is one of her very favorite hobbies. (Cakes and all kinds of cupcakes are her favorite items to bake.)

 

Laura Osborne, Accounting Assistant/Bookkeeper

We’re also excited to welcome Laura Osborne as WCC’s new part-time Accounting Assistant/Bookkeeper. Laura is rejoining the workforce after dedicating 23 years to raising her family, during which she also managed bookkeeping for her husband’s business. Laura attended George Mason University on a track scholarship and earned her economics degree with a concentration in accounting. She brings a keen eye for detail and an organized, proactive approach that will be a great asset to our team.

“It’s a wonderful atmosphere here—I feel welcomed, it’s peaceful, and I love my workspace,” said Laura. “I’ve often ridden my bike past and noticed the sign, and I was drawn to the generous and compassionate mission of supporting Veterans. The work truly makes a difference; the dogs help Veterans find a renewed sense of purpose. I’m proud to be part of this organization, even in a small way.”

Outside of work, Laura enjoys biking, gardening and kayaking. She and husband Dale, who have been married for 25 years, have three children, a German Shepherd, and two cats are active and enthusiastic members of their community. Please join us in welcoming Laura to WCC!

 

Kayla Prince, Veteran Training Program Coordinator

Kayla joined the WCC team in September, bringing a strong background in both psychology and dog training. A Maryland native, she previously worked as a certified dog trainer, specializing in helping family dogs with fear-based behavioral issues. With a degree in psychology from Goucher College and a master’s in social work from the University of Maryland, Kayla was drawn to WCC’s Mission-Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) program as the perfect combination of her background in social work, her passion for dog training, and her belief in the healing power of the Human Animal Bond.

At WCC, Kayla works primarily with the MBTR program at headquarters and at the Platoon Veterans Services Center in Frederick. She also contributes to the MBTR program at the Veterans Treatment Court in Baltimore.

“I love it. I remember calling my friend after the interview and saying this is where I want to be, and I’ve felt the same every day since,” said Kayla. “We’re all a team working towards the same goals of helping veterans. I get to see the positive impact that helping to train the dogs has on our volunteers in each session. Having an office cat (Summer) is a huge perk too!”

When she’s not working, you can find Kayla soaking up the sun at Rehoboth Beach. She also enjoys time with her family, including her two rescue cats, Morgan and Watson, who she’s even trained using clicker training.



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14934 Schaeffer Road
Boyds, MD 20841

(T) 301.260.1111
info@warriorcanineconnection.org

Warrior Canine Connection
is a 501(c)(3)
Nonprofit Organization
# 45-2981579

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