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.

###