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May

Axes Gives Back: CHAMP Assistance Dogs

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Axes Gives Back: CHAMP Assistance Dogs

CHAMP (Canine Helpers Allow More Possibilities)

At Axes Physical Therapy, caring for people doesn’t stop at the clinic door. With 21 locally owned locations across the Greater St. Louis region, we restore movement and independence through physical and occupational therapy. But every month, through the Axes Physical Therapy Foundation, our team also rallies behind a staff‑nominated nonprofit.

For May 2025, we’re proud to spotlight CHAMP Assistance Dogs—a St. Louis based organization that’s been transforming lives with highly trained service‑dog partners since 1998.

What is CHAMP Assistance Dogs?

CHAMP (Canine Helpers Allow More Possibilities) raises, trains, and places service dogs free of charge with children, adults, and military veterans who live with physical or cognitive disabilities. Their mission: “to improve and enhance life skills and promote companionship through the placement of specially selected service dogs with qualified individuals.”

Key programs include:

  • Service‑Dog Training & Placement – Puppies are socialized by volunteer “puppy raisers,” then receive formal training (including an innovative program in a Missouri women’s correctional facility).

  • Therapy‑Dog Teams – Certified handlers and dogs visit hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers to share comfort and motivation.

  • Disability‑Awareness Education – CHAMP teaches the public how service dogs help their partners live more independent lives.

Why This Cause Matters

At Axes, we see daily how movement and companionship change outcomes—whether that’s a patient regaining strength in the gym or a person with a disability gaining freedom alongside a trusted service dog. CHAMP’s work mirrors our own core values of independence, dignity, and community support.

How You Can Help

  1. Donate directly – Financial gifts keep training programs running.

  2. Become a puppy raiser or weekend foster – Open your home to a future service dog.

  3. Sponsor a therapy‑dog visit – Bring wagging tails (and smiles) to schools, long‑term‑care facilities, or community events.

  4. Share their mission – Tell a friend, repost on social, or invite CHAMP to speak at your organization.

Explore all options at champdogs.org.

Axes Physical Therapy: Giving Back to St. Louis

From tailored rehabilitation programs to partnerships with nonprofits like CHAMP, Axes remains committed to improving lives—because helping you is what we do. Join us this May as we celebrate the incredible canine‑human bonds that make our community stronger.