For Sarah Shriner, raising a Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) service dog in training started as a classroom project. For her daughter, Abigail, it has become a lesson in leadership, responsibility and confidence. Together, they’re creating memories with WCC’s Chappy that they’ll carry with them long after the lovable black Lab moves on to his next chapter.

Sarah, an agricultural teacher and Urbana FFA Advisor, first learned about WCC’s puppy-raising program through a longtime friend in the dairy goat, 4-H and FFA community. After inviting members of WCC’s staff and a Puppy Raiser to speak to her pre-veterinary class, Sarah decided to give it a try. WCC’s Chappy joined their family on Christmas Eve and quickly became part of both their home and their school.

At first, Sarah was Chappy’s primary handler. But she soon recognized an opportunity for Abigail to make him part of her FFA Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) project. Abigail became a co-raiser, bringing Chappy to her classes, 4-H meetings and activities and helping him gain valuable experience in new environments.

“Abigail is learning so much about herself, dogs and leadership through this project,” Sarah said.

The experience has taken them well beyond the classroom. Chappy has become a familiar face at Urbana High School, where Sarah uses him to teach students about grooming, training and anatomy. Abigail has also introduced him to elementary students and other 4-H members, helping them learn how to appropriately interact with a service dog in training.

“This is my first puppy, raising experience, and I have learned so much so far,” said Abigail. “I have learned patience and that you always have to have fun when learning something new. Chappy has become an essential part of my life and making sure I always have a wonderful way to de-stress when I have exams or tests.”

And Abigail’s put her training to the test. At the Great Frederick Fair, Abigail and Chappy competed in obedience, rally and fitting and showing, where they earned several awards: Champion in Primary Obedience, Champion Novice Rally and the Overall High Triple Award in the Youth Dog Show.

For Sarah, the most meaningful part is knowing that the time and love they’re investing in Chappy will ultimately benefit a Veteran. With a history of military service in her family, she sees puppy raising as one small way to give back.

She also knows saying goodbye will be hard. But Chappy’s devotion during her recent recovery from a broken leg has reinforced Sarah’s belief that he’s destined for a greater purpose.

“We are grateful to have been a part of his journey to his greater purpose,” shared Sarah.

Sarah and Abigail’s story is a reminder of just how much Puppy Raisers give: time, patience, love, training and countless everyday experiences that prepare a dog for the life-changing work ahead.

WCC is grateful to Sarah, Abigail and every Puppy Raiser who helps make that journey possible. Want to make a difference for a Veteran? We’re always looking for dedicated families and individuals to join the WCC Puppy Raising community.
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