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.
###
Forging Unbreakable Bonds: How WCC’s Juanita Brought Two Families Together
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.
###
New Faces at WCC – December 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
“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
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.
###
Asheville Update: WCC Community Rebounds After Floods
The resilience and determination across Asheville are incredible to see, with everyone pulling together to navigate new routines and tackle ongoing challenges. There’s still much work ahead, but the strength of this community continues to shine.
Additionally, WCC Service Dog Training Instructor Michele Tate, who was displaced from her home for over a month due to flood damage, is now back home safe. Although recovery work on her residence continues, she and the WCC team remain dedicated to supporting Asheville’s Veterans.
In the spirit of community, WCC Asheville will be hosting a holiday gathering on December 5th, where area Veterans, families, partners and WCC staff will come together to celebrate the season and find strength in each other. This event is a chance to share gratitude and create a sense of unity during a time when the community needs it most.
A critical need for Ashville right now is funding to support Veteran outings and experiences that are necessary to help train future service dogs and also build camaraderie among the Veterans WCC serves. Those outings include visits to local restaurants and cafes. To help make those possible, please make a gift today on WCC’s secure donation website.
###
Holiday Gift Ideas for Dogs & Dog Lovers
Gift Ideas for Dogs …
Bow Wow Buddy Safety Device & Bully Sticks
This dog gift idea comes from WCC’s Director of Development Jennifer Wilder and Smith, her trusty WCC Ambassador dog. If you’ve got a dog who’s a bit of a chomper, the Bow Wow Labs Buddy Safety Device, paired with some high-quality Bully Sticks, is a treat they’ll love — and makes chew time safer, too! The Buddy Device helps prevent choking by holding the bully stick securely in place, allowing your pup to safely gnaw to their heart’s content.
HuggleHounds HuggleFleece Bed Topper & Camo Ball
Looking for the ultimate comfort combo? Brady Wilks, WCC’s assistant director of communications, and WCC’s Rossi shared that the HuggleFleece Bed Topper is perfect for snuggly naps, and the Camo Ball (pictured with WCC’s Rossi to the right) doubles as a cozy pillow or a fetch toy. And a portion of proceeds from the camo ball goes to benefit WCC.
Licking Mats with Suction Cups
WCC Service Dog Training Instructor Katie Hearne says that these mats are a must for dogs who need a little extra distraction during bath time, nail trims or for general enrichment. The suction cups on the back make them easy to place on any smooth surface, and spreading a little peanut butter on top will keep your pup happily occupied.
Outward Hound Treat Puzzles
WCC’s Events Coordinator Jennifer Ashley says that her two pups are currently loving the Outward Hound Treat Puzzles. She shared, “They are pretty doggone proud to be on a Level 3 puzzle after becoming pros at the Level 2 puzzles. They know exactly where I keep them and paw at the closet door frequently to let me know it’s puzzle time.”
A Day of Adventure
Sometimes, the best gifts aren’t things but experiences! Cheryl Bingham, who supports WCC’s Volunteer Program, recommends you take your pup on a hike, followed by a cozy snuggle session with their favorite treat. It’s the gift of time, and your dog will paws-itively love every minute.
Gift ideas for humans …
DIY Pawprint Keepsake & Ornament Kit
WCC Veteran and Military Family Services Manager Sarah DelCore shared, “I LOVE the make your own clay ornament kits. You can easily personalize them by adding your dog’s name, painting them and picking out color ribbon to hang it with. Plus, it always brings a few good laughs trying to get your dog to cooperate with putting their paw in the clay. There are plenty of options out there, just make sure it is toxic-free, and you wash your dog’s paw off well afterwards.”
Dog Nail Grinder
Katie Hearne also recommends a nail grinder that is sure to please both dog and human! She says this grinder is the quietest she’s ever used. She did add that it doesn’t have as much power as some other brands, but that it’s great for grinding the nails in more frequent, shorter sessions.
Custom artwork on Etsy
Looking for a personalized holiday gift that truly captures the personality of a beloved furry friend? WCC Media Relations Officer Beth Bourgeois recommends custom pet artwork on Etsy. Talented artists on the popular site specialize in re-creating pets from photos, using various mediums such as watercolor, digital art and even playful cartoon-style portraits. These custom pieces offer a range of styles, from whimsical to realistic. Prices vary widely, making it easy to find something within your budget, and many artists offer digital download options so you can print and frame the artwork yourself—perfect for a budget-friendly yet heartfelt gift.
WCC 2025 Calendar and Apparel
Nothing says “dog lover” like a calendar filled with adorable photos of WCC’s service dogs in training. Pick one up from the WCC website and bring some smiles all year round! From cozy hoodies to mugs, WCC also has plenty of merch for you and your fellow dog lovers. Shop now to find something stylish and support a mission you love.
Whether you’re shopping for a gift that squeaks, snuggles or simply makes you smile, we hope these ideas make your holiday shopping a little easier. May your gifts be doggone perfect, and your holidays filled with joy!
###
Kearney & Company Paws-itively Impacting Veterans
A perfect example of Kearney’s commitment to the military community is its 12+ year partnership with Warrior Canine Connection (WCC). Over the years, Kearney has raised more than $530,000 for the nonprofit, helping fund programs that are literally changing—and saving—the lives of wounded Veterans. But it’s not just about the money—Kearney team members have also volunteered with WCC and supported the organization through various events—a true testament to their dedication to giving back.
Dr. Kyle Richards, Kearney’s Director of Employee Engagement, is also a member of WCC’s Board of Directors and an ardent supporter of the nonprofit. He explains why the partnership is such a natural fit.
“At Kearney, we believe in the concept of WCC’s clinical approach to Mission Based Trauma Recovery training,” said Dr. Richards. “There are a lot of organizations that pair Veterans with service dogs, and they’re doing incredible work. But as CPAs, we bring an auditor’s lens to everything we do. So, when you bring in that clinical approach, you can ensure that every part of the program is studied rigorously—that’s when real progress happens. From selecting the right dog to tracking outcomes and gathering data that can inform future research, WCC is committed to the same level of rigor in its work as Kearney is in ours. We’re deeply invested in the process and the impact it has. The entire firm takes such pride and delight in it.”
To date, more than 9,000 Veterans have participated in WCC’s Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) training program, which enlists Warriors to help train service dogs for their fellow Warriors. By interacting with the dogs as they move from puppyhood to training to adult service dogs, Warrior Trainers benefit from a physiological and psychological animal-human connection. As a result of their efforts, Veterans with visible and invisible wounds receive the finest in trained service dogs.
“Kearney’s partnership and Kyle’s leadership on our Board have been invaluable,” said Rick Yount, founder and executive director, Warrior Canine Connection. “Their support, both financial and through their expertise, has played a critical role in helping us enhance and expand our programs. The insights and guidance Kyle has provided have helped make a lasting impact on WCC, enabling us to serve Veterans and their families more effectively. We are incredibly grateful for Kearney and Kyle’s ongoing commitment to our mission and the difference they’re helping us make in the lives of those who have served.”
Kearney was recently recognized on Military Times’ 2024 Best for Vets: Employers list. The list highlights organizations that are evaluated based on their policies, practices, and benefits for veterans. Notably, more than one in six Kearney team members have served in the Armed Forces. This strong Veteran presence across the firm including in leadership roles helps Kearney truly understand and embrace the mission-driven culture that Veterans bring.
“It’s been a long and fruitful partnership between Kearney and Warrior Canine Connection, and we look forward to continuing it for years to come because the mission was, is, and remains critical for the amount of need out there,” said Richards. “The more we can do to support WCC, the more the organization can do to support Veterans, their families, and the lives of our community members. It really creates a ripple effect that both impacts our Veterans and those who love and care for them.”
###
2024 Veterans Day Restaurant Deals
2024 Veterans Day Deals
WCC Partners:
Chick-Fil-A: Free chicken biscuit during breakfast hours, free sandwich during lunch or dinner hours
Farinas Pasta Bar-Veteran Owned: From November 10th through November 17th, 10% of sales from their Southern Fried Chicken Parm, Pistachio Pesto, and Meatball Marinara goes to WCC!
Mission BBQ: Free Sandwich
WCC’s Veteran-Staff Favorites:
Buffalo Wild Wings: On November 11, Veterans and active-duty service members get 10 free boneless wings and fries with valid ID. Available for dine-in or, if ordering from a Buffalo Wild Wings GO location, available for walk-in/orders placed at the counter only.
Glory Days Grill: 50% off any entree
Longhorn Steak House: 10% discount on a meal
Outback Steakhouse: 10% discount and free Bloomin Onion
More Deals:
Applebees: Free Meal – For their FREE lunch or dinner, Veterans can choose between some of our most popular entrées: Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, 6 oz. Top Sirloin, Chicken Tenders Platters, Double Crunch Shrimp, Fiesta Lime Chicken, Oriental Chicken Salad, and Three-Cheese Chicken Penne.
BJ’s – Receive a free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie® with no minimum food purchase. Offer not valid for Pizookie® Trio or Pizookie® Party Platter. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS OR DISCOUNTS. Must present Military ID or other proof of service. No cash value. Tax and gratuity not included. *Offer valid on Monday, 11/11/2024 for dine-in only.
Bonefish Grill – Active-duty service members and Veterans get a complimentary order of Bang Bang Shrimp with a soft beverage on November 11, 2024 with valid ID.
Chili’s – Free Meal *Valid only on 11/11/2024. Military ID required to redeem offer. No substitutions. Cannot be combined with other offers. Offer only available for dine-in from limited menu. Beverages and gratuity not included.
CiCi’s Pizza: Veterans and Active duty Military eat free on Veterans Day 11/11
Cracker Barrel: Free double chocolate cake dessert. Cracker Barrel will serve a complimentary dessert to our nation’s military heroes on Veterans Day
Golden Corral: free meal for Veterans All current U.S. service members, retired military, and Veterans may join Golden Corral for a free “Thank You” Buffet and Beverage on Monday, November 11, 2024 | 4PM-Close
IHOP: Veterans and Active Military enjoy a FREE Red, White and Blueberry Pancake Combo between 7AM-7PM
Olive Garden: Free entree
Red Robin: Free Red’s Big Tavern Burger
Ruby Tuesdays: Free meal
Sheetz: Free meal, beverage, and car wash
Silver Diner: 25% Off
TGI Fridays: Free meal off a special menu between 11AM and 5PM
Texas Road House: Complimentary Meal
Dogs Helping Veterans, the Warrior Canine Connection
Listen in to The Dog Dad podcast, as host Joel David sits down with Sarah Delcore from Warrior Canine Connection to dive into their transformative work connecting service dogs with veterans. Sarah shares insights into the organization’s unique mission, including how they train these exceptional dogs and the healing impact they have on veterans’ lives. We also discuss ways you can get involved, from becoming a puppy foster to supporting programs that even extend into the prison system, where inmates help train future service dogs. Tune in to learn how you can be part of this inspiring journey, supporting both veterans and our loyal canine friends.
Listen on Spotify
Listen on Apple
Warriors train service dogs for veterans — and sometimes heal themselves
Dave Snedeker, 52, of Harrisburg, was struggling with feelings of isolation and post-traumatic stress disorder. He had served 24 years in the Army and Army National Guard, including a one-year tour in Afghanistan.
Hospitalized for a second time, he finally was ready to ask for help during his stay at Walter Reed Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. Read the full story in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Healing from within: A Veteran’s journey to helping others
“I realized I’ve spent my entire career helping others, so it was time to take my own advice and ask for help,” says Anna. “The key is to take the tiniest of steps—put on your clothes and show up.”
A U.S. Army Reserve Veteran, Anna’s life has been shaped by her experiences in service and her share of challenges. Anna moved to the U.S. from Ukraine in 2001. She was 12 at the time and didn’t know a word of English, but when 9/11 happened, she says she understood what was taking place and felt a deep calling to give back.
“Seeing others join the military inspired me to contribute to the country that embraced me,” shared Anna. “In 2009, I joined the military because I wanted to contribute to the nation that welcomed me and offered opportunities I would never have had in the Ukraine.”
Anna enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve in 2009, where she gained experience as a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Technician at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and served as a Behavioral Specialist and later as a Behavioral Health Supervisor in Combat Operational Stress Control Units. In 2015, she switched over to the Army National Guard, and during that time, she completed occupational therapy fieldwork at Towson University and worked as an Office Assistant at the Veteran Mental Health Center.
It was in 2021, during her second deployment, that she began losing feeling in her limbs and became paralyzed. She received an unexpected diagnosis—multiple sclerosis—which led to her medical retirement in 2022.
“I’ve always loved psychology and the way we deal with life circumstances,” said Anna. “I truly believe everything happens for a reason,” Anna shares. “I’ve been through my own health issues, lost my fiancé and reached a very low point. I didn’t want to live anymore, but my friends came and got me. That’s when I reached out to Wounded Warrior Project.”
One of her very first WWP events was a training program offered through its partner organization, Warrior Canine Connection (WCC), to learn how to help train a service dog. Anna attended and was hooked. She also enlisted WWP’s help with resume writing and networking, and before long, saw a job opening within the organization—Anna says she knew it was where she was supposed to be.
Today, as an outreach specialist with WWP, Anna continues to make an impact. She connects Veterans with the resources they need, drawing from her own experiences and struggles, to guide others on their paths to healing, which regularly includes WWC’s Mission Based Trauma Recovery training program, where Veterans learn to help train service dogs for their fellow Warriors. From the base of Everest to the halls of WWP, Anna’s journey is a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always a path to healing—one small step at a time.
###
Ravens and Tito’s Are Back for a Paw-some 2024 Season!
That’s right, football fans and dog lovers, get ready to cheer extra hard because every time the Ravens complete a pass, you’re helping provide life-changing service dogs to Veterans. This partnership showcases the *ultimate* teamwork—both on the field and in the lives of those who have served our country.
So, grab your purple gear, rally the pack and root for every reception. Every catch brings us one step closer to our fundraising goal, ensuring that Warrior Canine Connection can continue its mission of providing service dogs to those who’ve served our great country.
###