Althea Canines

The Start of Althea Canines

Shannon has always had a heart for helping others. Throughout her life, she gave her time to her children’s schools, 4-H, and Campfire programs. Service and community were important to her, and she found joy in giving back.

In 2018, Shannon faced a hard chapter in her life. A toxic work environment led to a severe depressive episode. She entered an outpatient program where she was diagnosed with Severe Depressive Disorder, PTSD, and anxiety disorder. During this time, one special companion made all the difference — a young yellow Labrador, who was in training to become a service dog. Her steady, loving presence helped Shannon through some of her hardest moments.

This experience opened Shannon’s eyes to the deep need for more accessible mental health support, especially through service dogs. She saw that many people who could benefit from a service dog could not afford one, as they often cost $50,000 dollars. Shannon felt called to help change that.

In 2020, her mission grew even more personal. Her oldest son, an Air Force veteran, survived a life-threatening assault during his service. Shannon supported him through a difficult medical retirement process and saw firsthand how his in-training service dog helped him heal and rebuild his life.

In 2023, Shannon met Amy Wolfe. They quickly connected over their shared passion for service dogs and helping others. Over a simple meal and good conversation, they decided to work together to create something bigger.

Amy brought years of experience in emergency services, both as an EMT and a 20-year 911 dispatcher. She had trained her own service dog, Sailor — a red Golden Retriever rescued from the meat trade in Beijing — and believed strongly in the healing power of canine companionship. With her husband’s background as a Navy veteran and sheriff’s deputy, Amy also understood the unique needs of first responders and veterans.

Together, Shannon and Amy founded Althea Canines.

Their goal was clear: to create a welcoming, supportive place where service and facility dogs would be available to anyone in need, regardless of financial means. They wanted people struggling with mental health challenges — veterans, first responders, and civilians alike — to have access to well-trained, loving service dogs without the heavy burden of cost.

Althea Canines is built on the belief that healing and hope should be accessible to everyone. Through expert training, education, and ongoing support, Shannon and Amy are working to support others by helping to give them life making service dogs.

We invite you to help make a life making service dog a reality for a Military Veteran or First Responder in your community. Make a tax deductible donation today!