Class of 2025 VIPs
We're so proud of our 2025 VIPs for changing the lives of their furever families.Not all PADS dogs are suited for service.
PADS VIP Dogs are very well-trained dogs from our programs that are better suited for a life as a pet. These dogs are placed with a child or adult who has a disability, and who would benefit from the companionship of a loving pet but may not have the time or ability to train a dog. VIP Dogs do not have public access rights or specialized skill training.
We’re pleased to introduce our VIP Class of 2025!
“To say that Encore has changed our family for the better is an understatement. He has enriched our lives — and, especially, those of our children — in so many wonderful ways. We’ve loved both getting to know him and getting to know each other a little bit more, through him. He is the family member we did not know we were missing and the best friend we didn’t know we needed. We are so deeply grateful to PADS for bringing him into our lives, giving us a little bit more sunshine each and every day, and for taking such wonderful care of him before he came to us.”
“We are so grateful for bringing Aspen into our lives. From the moment she joined our family, she instantly felt like she belonged. She’s beautiful, loving, and has been absolutely fantastic for all of us. Our daughter Ella is neurodivergent, as am I, and Aspen has brought a calmness and sense of comfort to our home that’s hard to put into words. She’s been on numerous camping adventures with us, and she’s proven to be the perfect travelling companion who is sweet, gentle, and always ready to be part of the fun. We feel so blessed to have her and are incredibly thankful for all that you and your amazing volunteers do to make these matches possible.”
“We are soaking up this beautiful girl that is such a gift to our family! We won the lottery. Lyriq comes often to the dance studio with us and has become a huge part of our family and community. She has an adorable personality! Our other pet dog and her have become little besties and we are loving their connection. My kids are over the moon to have sweet Lyriq as part of their everyday life. Thank you again for this amazing opportunity.”
“Tzar has fit into the family perfectly, and we could not be happier with him in our lives. He has definitely come out of his shell, and loves going on hikes with my parents. I was home with him for the past few weeks between semesters ending and starting, and he is the absolute sweetest. Again, we are so grateful for this opportunity PADS has given us.”
“Pico (Picard) is doing absolutely wonderful! He is such a sweet boy and we are all completely in love with him. He is settling in so well. He’s so gentle and loving and can be playful but also chill. My daughter now sleeps through the night because he sleeps with her.”
“Sweet Yarrow has helped Julia cope with stress and enriched her life. She enjoys reinforcing his commands, throwing frisbee, and daily walks. All of us love his playfulness, affection, and energy.”
“Tobias didn’t just enter our lives—he transformed them. With every wag of his tail, every gentle nuzzle, and every quiet moment by our side, he reminds us that love doesn’t need words. Tobias gives Ally a calm, steady companion who soothes her and reduces her anxiety. Ally cares for him by cleaning his dishes, feeding him, and brushing him, which has given her a strong sense of responsibility and noticeably improved her self‑esteem. Ally’s behavioural analyst is helping her learn how to walk Tobias, an important step because Ally is fearful of being outside. Tobias’s loving companionship brings joy and playfulness into our daily lives and is helping him learn to be a true family pet. Tobias’s affection reaches all of us and the impact he has on our family is immeasurable. Thank you for helping make this possible.”
