Lutheran Church Charities - Home of the Comfort Dogs
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A Ministry of Presence
Each LCC K-9 Comfort Dog is part of a mission to share the Mercy, Compassion, Presence, and Proclamation of Jesus Christ. These dogs, alongside their dedicated handlers, listen without judgment, remain calm in chaos, and offer silent support in moments when words fail.
Whether visiting hospitals, comforting survivors of natural disasters, sitting beside children during reading time, or being present at the site of tragic events, Comfort Dogs gently open the door for healing, prayer, and faith conversations.
Each LCC K-9 Comfort Dog is part of a mission to share the Mercy, Compassion, Presence, and Proclamation of Jesus Christ. These dogs, alongside their dedicated handlers, listen without judgment, remain calm in chaos, and offer silent support in moments when words fail.
Whether visiting hospitals, comforting survivors of natural disasters, sitting beside children during reading time, or being present at the site of tragic events, Comfort Dogs gently open the door for healing, prayer, and faith conversations.
How We Serve
With over 130 Comfort Dogs placed in more than 27 states, our teams respond to thousands of requests annually — always at no cost to those we serve. In 2024 alone, our dogs and their handlers made over 19,000 visits across 31 states, offering comfort in:
Specialized Ministries of Comfort
With over 130 Comfort Dogs placed in more than 27 states, our teams respond to thousands of requests annually — always at no cost to those we serve. In 2024 alone, our dogs and their handlers made over 19,000 visits across 31 states, offering comfort in:
- Natural disaster zones
- Communities grieving after mass shootings
- Hospitals, nursing homes, and schools
- Churches and community outreach events
- Military veteran gatherings, VA centers, and law enforcement offices
Specialized Ministries of Comfort
- LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry® – Comfort Dogs and their veteran handlers serve those who have served, creating safe spaces for conversation, reflection, and healing.
- LCC K-9 Police Ministry® – Led by current and former law enforcement officers, this ministry brings compassion to those who protect and serve, especially in moments of critical need.
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Training with Purpose
Every LCC Comfort Dog undergoes over 2,000 hours of training to prepare them for this ministry. They are selected for their calm demeanor, emotional intelligence, and readiness to serve in unpredictable environments. Their human handlers also receive thorough and ongoing training to serve effectively and compassionately.
Faith in Every Pawprint
Each Comfort Dog is given a Bible verse at the start of their training, which is shared on their personal card, helping extend their ministry through scripture, presence, and prayer. As they walk into situations of deep sorrow or pain, these dogs carry not only hope but a visible reminder of Christ’s love.
A Ministry Built on Invitation
As the Home of the Comfort Dogs, LCC only goes where we are invited — and we never charge those we serve. This work is made possible solely through the generosity of donors who believe in the healing power of compassionate presence.
Every LCC Comfort Dog undergoes over 2,000 hours of training to prepare them for this ministry. They are selected for their calm demeanor, emotional intelligence, and readiness to serve in unpredictable environments. Their human handlers also receive thorough and ongoing training to serve effectively and compassionately.
Faith in Every Pawprint
Each Comfort Dog is given a Bible verse at the start of their training, which is shared on their personal card, helping extend their ministry through scripture, presence, and prayer. As they walk into situations of deep sorrow or pain, these dogs carry not only hope but a visible reminder of Christ’s love.
A Ministry Built on Invitation
As the Home of the Comfort Dogs, LCC only goes where we are invited — and we never charge those we serve. This work is made possible solely through the generosity of donors who believe in the healing power of compassionate presence.