The K9 Companion Project rescues at-risk dogs and partners them with people facing hardship through a co-training model built on trust, purpose, and healing.

Healing Together. Training For Life.

About

Our Mission

Our mission is to rescue abandoned and at-risk dogs and partner them with individuals in need of support - veterans, trauma survivors, and others navigating life’s challenges. Together, they embark on a shared journey of training and transformation, building service dog teams rooted in trust, purpose, and healing.

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The Problem

The Need Is Urgent!

Service dogs can cost tens of thousands of dollars, waitlists can stretch for years, and many dogs with the potential to serve are lost before they ever get the chance. At the same time, veterans, trauma survivors, and others facing hardship need practical, compassionate support that restores confidence, structure, and connection.

The K9CP Difference

We Do More Than Train Dogs

The K9 Companion Project brings people and rescue dogs together in a shared healing journey. Clients and dogs train side by side, building a bond rooted in trust, consistency, and purpose. Through our immersive co-training model, both human and canine grow stronger together.

Rescue with Purpose

We identify and save dogs with the temperament and potential to become life-changing companions.

Co-Training Model

Clients and dogs train side by side, building trust, consistency, and a powerful lifelong bond.

Whole-Person Healing

Our program supports emotional wellness, confidence, structure, and renewed purpose.

Real-World Readiness

Teams graduate prepared for everyday life—capable, connected, and ready to move forward together.

Why This Mission Matters Now

Veteran Suicide & Isolation

68% of veterans feel lonely
20 veterans commit suicide every day
These feelings increase heart disease 29%
Isolation increases stroke possibility by 32%
Transition stress or PTSD can increase all of these

Mental Support Health Is Overloaded

Access to mental health support continues to lag behind growing demand.
Many individuals face long wait times for meaningful emotional support services.
Traditional mental health systems are increasingly stretched beyond capacity.
Too many people struggle in silence while support resources remain limited.
Affordable, consistent emotional support is still out of reach for many families.

Service Dog Costs are out of reach

Professionally trained service dogs can cost between $20,000 and $50,000, placing them out of reach for many individuals and families.
Long waitlists and high training costs leave many people without the support they urgently need.
Financial barriers prevent countless individuals from accessing life-changing canine companionship and support.
Healing and companionship should not depend on someone’s ability to afford a $30,000 service dog.
Too many people who could benefit from a service dog never receive one because the cost is simply too high.

Dogs Are Meant For More

Thousands of healthy, adoptable shelter dogs still face euthanasia every single day.
Many rescue dogs with the potential to change lives never receive a second chance.
Animal shelters across the country continue to struggle with overcrowding and limited resources.
Countless dogs capable of deep companionship are overlooked simply because there are not enough homes or programs available.
Too often, dogs with extraordinary potential are lost before they ever have the opportunity to serve, connect, or heal.

The Team

Amy L. Wulfers-Cefaratti

As the Executive Director, with a background in nonprofit leadership, advocacy, and community engagement, Amy is passionate about creating innovative programs that support emotional wellness, resilience, and life-changing human-canine bonds. Her vision is rooted in compassion, service, and the belief that healing happens best when no one walks alone.

David Bladt

As Treasurer for The K9 Companion Project David brings decades of executive financial leadership experience to the organization. As a professional Chief Financial Officer, David has extensive expertise in financial management, strategic planning, operational oversight, and organizational growth. His commitment to accountability, transparency, and long-term sustainability helps ensure that The K9 Companion Project is built on a strong and responsible financial foundation while supporting its mission of healing through human-canine partnership.

Meet Our Experts

Dr. Lisa Patel

Serving as Secretary of the Board for The K9 Companion Project Lisa brings a deeply holistic approach to health and wellness. As a chiropractor, massage therapist, acupuncturist, and holistic practitioner, Dr. Patel has dedicated her career to helping individuals achieve healing through integrative care that supports both physical and emotional well-being. She is the owner of Texas Rich and is passionate about compassionate, whole-person wellness approaches that align closely with the mission of The K9 Companion Project.

Vania Ochoa

As Co-Founder of The K9 Companion Project Vania plays a key role in guiding both clients and rescue dogs through the intake process. With a compassionate and people-centered approach, she helps create thoughtful matches built on trust, connection, and long-term success.

Known for her warmth, empathy, and attention to detail, Vania helps ensure every person and every dog feels welcomed and supported from the very beginning of their journey. She also brings a special talent for donor appreciation and meaningful connections that help strengthen relationships and community throughout the organization.

Jacob Chiasson

Jacob is a Co-Founder of The K9 Companion Project and serves as Head Trainer and Assistant Director. With a background in the military K9 corps and years of specialty canine training experience, he brings strong leadership, discipline, and a deep understanding of working dogs to the organization’s mission.

Jacob oversees the development of training programs focused on building trust, confidence, and lasting bonds between participants and rescue dogs. His calm, grounded approach and commitment to both people and animals help create an environment where healing and growth can thrive.

Known for his steady leadership and compassionate connection with animals, Jacob plays a key role in shaping the vision and impact of The K9 Companion Project.

Dakota Foster

Dakota serves as the Canine Director and Community Experience Director for The K9 Companion Project. Passionate about animals and deeply connected to the mission, he brings compassion, empathy, and a strong understanding of the human-canine bond to the organization.

As a service animal handler himself, Dakota understands firsthand the life-changing impact a dog can have on emotional support, confidence, and daily life. His personal experience helps him create meaningful connections with participants while fostering a welcoming, supportive environment for both people and animals.

His role helps shape the experience, culture, and connection at the K9 Companion Project.

Greg Witte

Greg brings a unique combination of military discipline, leadership, and real-world safety expertise to The K9 Companion Project.

As a veteran, safety specialist, and trainer, he understands the importance of trust, structure, and calm leadership in both people and dogs. His passion for service and mentorship makes him a valuable part of the K9CP mission, where he helps guide rescue dogs and participants through training built on consistency, confidence, and connection.

Greg’s steady presence, hands-on experience, and commitment to helping others create an environment where both dogs and people can grow, heal, and succeed together.

Ashra M. Dunker

Ashra is a community engagement and business development professional with extensive experience in healthcare, behavioral health, hospice, and nonprofit outreach. Ashra has spent her career building partnerships, developing community programs, and connecting individuals with life-changing resources. As Co-Founder of The K9 Companion Project, Ashra leads partnership development, fundraising, and community outreach efforts, helping advance the organization's mission of healing lives through the bond between people and rescue dogs.

Lissa Johnson

Lissa Johnson is a Broker and Realtor with Bridgecrest Realty and owner of JADE Construction. With extensive experience in real estate, construction, business development, and client relations, she is known for her exceptional relationship-building skills and commitment to serving others. A passionate advocate for veterans and individuals with disabilities, Lissa brings both professional expertise and a servant's heart to The K9 Companion Project, helping advance its mission of healing lives through connection, compassion, and purpose.