Change of Career Dogs

The national average for a dog to become a successful service dog is approximately 50%. Our mission is to provide service dogs for first responders and veterans but sometimes service work isn’t a good fit for some of the pups that come into our program. These dogs still have a very important job- they are donated to veterans and first responders as a companion or may become therapy animals.


 
 

MATTY

Matty was at home right away when she stepped into Kurt Steinke’s house for the very first time. Steinke has been with the City of Waukee Fire for nearly 30 years. He was looking to add to his small pack and Matty was just the perfect fit. Matty now enjoys her days with all the cuddles she can imagine from her human dad and siblings and throwing sticks to herself in the yard.

Matty is named after Matthew York. York served in the US Marines Corp 2005 to 2009, in the 3es Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion. After his time in the military, he studied Criminal Justice at Grand View College and graduated in 2005. He was hired on to the Polk County Sheriffs Department and promoted to Sargent in 2021. For over the last 10 years he has served as Commander for the American Legion Post #49. Matty is also in memory of Dennis York who served in the Army from 1969 to 1971, and Loren York who served in the Army during the WWII and Korean War.

Matty came from Wicked Wing Shed & Tracking Dogs


BLAZE

Blaze wormed his way into the hearts of Keith & Kay Acheson. He will get to enjoy his days being his goofy self and running around the many acres of land with his new friend, Sully, in West Des Moines. Keith was born and raised on a farm near Des Moines, Iowa. He attended a one-room country school (K-8). After college, he joined the Army and transferred to the Air Force after two years. He attended flight training and spent 25 years piloting jet fighter aircraft. Acheson is also a prideful member of Patriot Guard Riders of Iowa.

Blaze received his name in honor of Ralph J. Hickenbottom of Fairfield, Iowa. Ralph has shown his patriotism for this country both as a public servant and by supporting public and civil servants.

Ralph was a firefighter for the Fairfield Fire Department for 22 years. During that time, he served as a backup driver, a captain, the assistant fire chief, and the fire chief. In 2011, after being Fire Chief for eight years, his retirement was expedited by health issues.

Blaze (Yellow Male) is donated by Hero Labradors.


If you are interested in adding a new family member, a change of career dog from ISD, please fill out our companion dog application. Filling out an application for one of our companion dogs does not guarantee you will be selected.