Project Chance provides service dogs who make a difference!

During her tenure  as a special needs teacher, BJ brought her dog into the classroom and  noticed the peace that permeated the environment. Having made that  observation, she had the idea of pairing children and dogs to affect  positive behavioral change. Combining her teaching and more than 40  years of professional dog training, BJ developed and launched Project  Chance in 2008.   Although  she earned a degree in hospitality management, BJ went to grooming  school and then worked with a trainer who showed dogs. She discovered  her passion. In 1976, BJ founded Dog Leg Productions, a boarding,  training and boot camp program for dogs. Additionally,  she worked with dogs as an administrator for animal control and humane  societies and then developed education programs. In schools, BJ taught  kids about pet ownership and responsibilities. Having raised two  daughters with mental health challenges, BJ has first-hand knowledge of  the struggles parents face and the strategies she used with positive  outcomes.  BJ is committed to making a difference in the lives of  kids with disabilities by integrating golden retriever service dogs.  An  advocate for service dogs and families, BJ works with local and regional non-profit agencies focusing on accessibility to resources and  community integration for service dogs and kids with autism.