**Service Dog Search Update**

Hi everyone — I wanted to share a quick update on the planned pairing between Skadi and Pickles.

Unfortunately, this recent breeding cycle did not result in a pregnancy. This marks Skadi’s second unsuccessful cycle overall (a previous attempt last fall with a different male also did not take).

Alyssa will be adjusting the plan for Skadi’s next heat cycle, expected around October. The next attempt with Pickles will include progesterone testing and potentially AI to improve timing and increase the likelihood of success.

For now, this specific pairing is temporarily on hold until the fall cycle. I will share more updates as we move forward.

Thank you all for continuing to follow and support this service dog search journey of mine! 💕

Candice Ann Carrell

💜🐾🩵

Hello friends, family, and community,

I’m reaching out to share an intentional and well-researched goal: raising funds to obtain and responsibly raise an owner-trained medical service animal to support my mental health and daily functioning.

I am a stay-at-home mother of four children, ranging in age from 16 to 2. My life is centered around caregiving, routine, and responsibility, and this service animal is part of a long-term plan to improve stability, independence, and overall quality of life—for both myself and my family.

My fundraising goal is $3,000 by July 10th, 2026.

How the funds will be used:

$2,500 — Cost of a carefully selected puppy chosen for service-dog potential, including temperament, health testing, and ethical breeding standards

$500 — Travel to safely pick up the puppy, plus initial supplies such as food, bedding, and basic necessities

This is not an impulse decision. I have spent significant time researching service-dog suitability, ethical breeders, and the long-term commitment required to raise a reliable service animal from puppyhood into adulthood.

Rather than oversharing personal medical details, I want to be clear about my intent: this service animal is a proactive step toward long-term wellness, structure, and support.

Any support—whether through donating or sharing—is sincerely appreciated. Thank you for being part of my community.

With gratitude,

Candice

Transparency & Trust

Why an owner-trained service animal?

Owner-trained service animals are legally recognized and allow for consistent bonding, structure, and training that fits real daily life. This approach is responsible, ethical, and sustainable for my situation while still following proper training guidance.

Why this type of dog?

The puppy has been chosen based on temperament, health testing, and suitability for service work, not appearance. Ethical breeding and early foundations are critical for long-term success.

What does training look like?

Training will be age-appropriate and ongoing, focusing on obedience, structure, emotional regulation support, and task foundations as the dog matures. This is a long-term commitment, not a quick process.

Why $3,000?

This amount covers the puppy and essential startup needs in one complete goal:

Puppy acquisition $2,500

Travel for safe pickup $200

Food, bedding, and starter supplies $300

Covering these costs upfront helps ensure a stable and responsible beginning.

Why ask for community support?

This journey is rooted in responsibility and planning. Community support helps bridge the financial gap while allowing me to move forward thoughtfully and sustainably.