This May, Paragon hosted the Service Dog Success for Small Organizations Workshop, bringing together service dog professionals from across the country for three days of learning, collaboration, and connection.

Participants explored a wide range of topics, including puppy raising and volunteer support, proofing and maintaining trained behaviors, service dog training foundations, and best practices for working with clients with disabilities. The workshop featured presentations from Paragon staff as well as guest experts Bri Ore and Sarah Glassini, creating opportunities for attendees to share knowledge, ask questions, and learn from one another's experiences.

Beyond the educational sessions, the workshop fostered meaningful relationships among organizations committed to advancing the service dog field. We are grateful to everyone who attended and contributed their expertise. By learning together and sharing best practices, we continue to strengthen our industry and programs and improve outcomes for the people and dogs we serve.

We are excited to be welcoming two new members to our Board of Directors -- Harvey Smith and Dr. Stacey Huber, DVM.

Our "G" class of community puppies has been growing beautifully. With each new outing, their skills continue to flourish. As the weather warmed, it was the perfect time to attend their biggest outing yet: Boulder Creek Fest. This outdoor celebration regularly attracts more than 50,000 visitors per day and welcomes hundreds of vendors.

Upon arrival, our pups Granby, Fortune, and Gilligan were greeted by bustling crowds, busy streets, and the delightful aromas of street food. Together, they gathered across the street and observed the crowds passing by. Before entering the festival, they practiced sits and downs to prepare for the excitement ahead.

Unable to walk side by side in the crowds, each puppy formed part of a train, following the dog in front. With tails held high, cheerful expressions, and relaxed gaits, they navigated the festival beautifully. The pups were joined by several wonderful volunteers who attended the event to learn and support Paragon. After some exploring, it was time for the puppies to head home.

Each month, our dedicated Inmate Handlers will now be sharing the stories, milestones, and memorable moments that make raising and training future service dogs such a rewarding journey. From puppy antics and training breakthroughs to heartwarming lessons and unexpected adventures, the Paragon Puppy Chronicles will offer a unique behind-the-scenes look at the lives of the puppies growing up in our prison-based training program.

Written by the handlers themselves, who spend every day teaching, nurturing, and loving these remarkable dogs, these chronicles celebrate the partnership, growth, and transformation happening on both ends of the leash. We invite you to follow along as our puppies learn the skills that will one day change lives—and leave plenty of paw prints on our hearts along the way.

“King” Henry

Hello everybody, it is such a pleasure to make your acquaintance, my name is Henry. I’m a 12 week old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel whose dream is to one day perform a life changing service for my person. I know I have lofty aspirations and some pretty big expectations to fill, but everybody around me says I’m smart as a whip, or is it sharp as a knife? Anyways, I have been going to school every day now since I was 7 weeks old and I’m soaking it all up. All the while doing it in style, haven't you seen how adorable I am? Take it from me, I'm kinda an authority around here being a king and all! I look forward to getting to know you all better and let you in on my future progress and of course, antics :p Thank you all so much for your encouragement and support, they mean the world to me.

King Henry out y’al (and PAWS'Abilities Master Handler Steven Hammer)

Hickory

Hello world, my name is Hickory and I am so excited to be alive! Everywhere I go people are so happy to see me. I thought it was clear that I'm a ten week old Havanese but then they ask, “Oh, he's so cute, what is he?”. Some people say I look like a little bunny, hopping down the hallway. Others yet say I look like an Ewok, whatever that is. And this other person even called me Gizmo if you can believe that. As if I were some kind of gadget! All I know is that I really like playing tug with these silly humans, and if I'm feeling generous, I will occasionally let them win. Then I tuck my butt and start running all over the place, which everyone seems to enjoy. It’s not really that hard keeping these humans happy and entertained when you're as cute as I am though! It was nice meeting you all but I have to get back to work now.

Ciao!

Hickory (and PAWS'Abilities Master Handler Ken Nicodemus)

PLEASE help us reach our match of $25,ooo and get entered into a drawing to name a future Paragon puppy. 

July 15th is the final day to support Paragon's Donation Match Campaign

A $25,000 Match. 

A $50,000 Impact.

Every gift is matched dollar for dollar, up to $25,000.

$30 becomes $60 

Aids in the thoughtful evaluation & selection of puppies.

$100 becomes $200 

Provides essential wellness care for growing puppies.

$250 becomes $500

Supplies a puppy raiser starter kit (bed, kennel, toys, treats...).

$500 becomes $1,000

Funds foundational training & experiences in puppyhood. 

$1,000 becomes $2,000

Delivers advanced sound alert skills development.   

$2,500 becomes $5,000

Enables team training of a hearing service dog and their partner.

Together, let’s unlock $50,000!