Rescuing One to Save Another
Detroit Dogs Join Blue Star Service Dogs to Become Life-Changing Companions
Three more Detroit Animal Care and Control (DACC) dogs have been accepted into the Blue Star Service Dogs program, bringing the total to six DACC dogs rescued and given new purpose in the last six months. This milestone marks a meaningful partnership between two organizations committed to second chances—for both people and pets.
Meet the newest recruits:
Froodle, now known as Ivy
Zibble, now known as Teal
Toodlebean, now known as Zeus
These special dogs are headed into intensive training at a local prison, where they’ll be guided by specially trained inmate handlers to prepare for their future roles as service dogs. The program not only equips the dogs with essential skills but also provides a therapeutic outlet and sense of purpose for the humans involved—both behind bars and beyond them.
A Shift Toward Rescue-Only
In a bold and compassionate move, Blue Star Service Dogs recently made the decision to stop accepting dogs from breeders. Going forward, they will only be welcoming rescued shelter dogs into their program.
This shift creates new opportunities for shelter dogs like those at DACC to find meaningful, purpose-filled lives as service animals for veterans. We are thrilled about this change and proud to be part of the pipeline for pups that have what it takes to become heroes in their own right.
The Blue Star Mission
"We Rescue One to Heal Another."
That’s the heart of Blue Star’s work: rescuing shelter dogs, training them, and pairing them with combat veterans living with invisible wounds. Through structured programs and ongoing support, the organization helps both dogs and veterans build skills, confidence, and powerful bonds that facilitate a smoother transition from military to civilian life.
Their mission extends beyond the individual veteran to include support for families and long-term care for the dogs themselves, ensuring each partnership is set up for lifelong success.
Learn more about their programs here: Blue Star Service Dogs – Our Programs
Why It Matters
“Our staff and volunteers have always said Detroit has the best dogs. But to know that some of them have the potential to be service dogs? It’s incredible. We’re so happy to be a part of the Blue Star family now thanks to Michigan Animal Welfare Foundation. I hope it encourages more adopters to come by the shelter—our dogs really are special.”
Detroit’s dogs have always been full of love, loyalty, and potential—and now, thanks to this growing partnership, some of them will go on to change lives in profound ways.
From shelter kennels to service vests, these dogs are proof that rescue isn’t the end of the story—it’s the powerful beginning of something extraordinary.
