Gretta’s Puppies: The Future of Our Mission Has Arrived

This fall, our team celebrated a very special moment in our in-house breeding program. Gretta’s maternity shoot in October captured her calm, loving spirit and the excitement surrounding the new life she was about to bring into the world. These photos marked the beginning of a journey that would soon grow our mission in the most heartwarming way.

A Beautiful Arrival

Shortly after her maternity shoot, Gretta welcomed eight beautiful and healthy puppies, and we could not be more thrilled. Their birth was supported by the outstanding teams at Inver Grove Animal Hospital and Avenue of the Saints Animal Hospital, whose expert care ensured a safe and healthy start for Gretta and her pups. We are also grateful to Susquehanna Service Dogs for partnering with us to make this litter possible.

A special thank you goes to Karma Fischer, who opened her home and heart to care for Gretta and her newborns. Her dedication gave these puppies the nurturing environment they needed during their first days of life.

Growing, Learning, and Beginning Their Mission

Now that December is here, Gretta’s puppies are thriving. These little ones are already beginning the earliest stages of their development as future Service Dogs. Each week, they are introduced to new experiences designed to build confidence, curiosity, and adaptability.

Their enrichment includes:

• Exposure to new people

• Familiarization with household environments

• Introduction to different scents and sounds

• Exploration of varied textures and surfaces

• Early socialization and positive handling

These small steps help prepare them for the meaningful work ahead. One day, each puppy will grow into a life-changing Service Dog for Veterans with disabilities and children with autism.

From the maternity shoot that captured the anticipation, to the joy of their arrival, and now to watching them grow, Gretta’s journey has been a beautiful reminder of how our mission begins long before training starts. It begins here, in moments of love, care, and possibility.

Stay tuned for more updates as we follow these eight remarkable puppies on their path to changing lives.