This episode of Fueled is a bit of a departure from the hunting dog slant we have in most episodes. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Brenda Kennedy of Canine Companions for Independence. Canine Companions for Independence is one of the oldest, largest and most cutting edge leaders in the assistance dog world and in this episode we get a peak behind the scenes at the dogs of this great organization and the how these dogs get from whelping to work.

We cover a lot of ground in this interview. Dr. Kennedy details their breeding program, puppy raising and job selection process. She gives her take on the controversial topic of timing for spays and neuters and the impact of that decision in an organization that deals with a large number of working large breed dogs. We finish by discussing some of the mind-blowing research they are a part of as the organization works to make their amazing dogs even better through science and a better understanding of these dogs.

The interview is for anyone fascinated with working dogs and particularly canine learning and cognition and while the interview is with someone working with assistance dogs the research they are a part of will impact all of us in this working dog world and the insight into their decisions on everything from breeding selection to job selection is applicable to all of us. If you want a better understanding of assistance dogs, appreciate working dogs, want to learn how we are working to select smarter dogs or, let’s be honest, if you just love dogs this one is for you.

**Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The opinions expressed are personal in nature and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of our corporate sponsors or affiliates. Our guests are invited to share their opinions as recognized experts in their field and not as representatives of their respective employers. Thanks for listening and we hope you enjoy this podcast.