Check Out Cathy Kowalski’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cathy Kowalski. 

Hi Cathy, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Faithfully K9 Service Dogs was created when, as a service dog trainer at another service dog organization, I realized that there was a need for an individual with a disability to be able to train their own dog to become their service dog. After working six years at that organization, I left and founded our nonprofit. We are in our 4th year with over 40 clients. Since June of 2020, we have had over 300 requests for information on how to train their own dog to become their service dog. Many of our clients have PTSD, anxiety, and depression. At the organization I worked at before, there is a 2-5 year wait for a service dog. By working with the client and their dog, they can get help immedicatly as the dog lives with them. We work with many Veterans with PTSD and are one of the only organizations that works with civilians with PTSD. Our first client was kidnapped from a big box store, sexually assaulted, beaten, and left for dead. Her PTSD kept her from leaving her house, she lost her independence. Her dog gave her back her independence and she was able to move to London where, when she passed out in a mall, her dog was able to get help. She told me we gave her hope where there was no hope. These dogs change lives. We currently work with PTSD, mobility, and hearing issues. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It is difficult to start a nonprofit. Myself and our other trainer worked for two years without pay to make sure our clients were able to train their dogs. Fundraising is not something either of us has any experience with. We are a very small organization. We now have three trainers, including myself and I also do everything else including fundraising, writing grants, PR, client relationship, take all the calls emails, etc. Over the last few months, I have been working 12 hours a day. Our organization is built on heart and helping others and their dog. Our commitment has carried us through. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Commitment and the desire to change lives is what sets me apart from others. I am always looking for ways to help others and make a difference. 

I am most proud that I set my mind to create this nonprofit, followed it through even the toughest times and now I am watching it grow and help more people. 

I believe we should all strive to make life better for others. 

What does success mean to you?
Success is finding what you want to do, what your passion is and working toward it, feeling it, being a part of it, and growing with it. 

Pricing:

• Veterans and 1st Responders do not pay for our services
• Civilians are charged $50 per 1-hour session

Contact Info:

• Email: faithfullyk9@yahoo.com
• Website: faithfullyk9.org
• Instagram: faithfullyk9
• Facebook: faithfullyk9