The pups, future service dogs-in-training, usually made their way to volunteer puppy raisers across the country by plane. This time, however, they embarked on a voyage that symbolized both celebration and innovation. The flight coincided with three anniversaries: Goodyear Blimp’s 100th year, Peanuts’ 75th, and Canine Companions’ 50th. As the blimp drifted across the skies, Jeannie Schulz—widow of Peanuts creator Charles M. Schulz and a longtime Canine Companions National Board Member and Board Chair Emeritus —reflected on her late husband’s lifelong affection for dogs. “I’m delighted Snoopy got to join the puppies this time,” she said, “and to do so on the Goodyear Blimp makes it even more special.”
“As a longtime supporter of Canine Companions, I’m always thrilled to see a new troop of puppies begin their training to become vital members of the dog service community,” added Schulz, “And of course, we all know of Sparky’s affection for dogs! I’m particularly delighted that Snoopy gets to join in the fun this time around – all while riding the Goodyear Blimp!”
“We’re honored to celebrate our milestone anniversaries with this one-of-a-kind opportunity,” said Canine Companions CEO Paige Mazzoni. “For 50 years, we’ve been transforming the lives of people with disabilities through expertly trained service dogs, and partnering with beloved brands like Peanuts and Goodyear brings that mission to life in a joyful way. Peanuts reminds us that ‘Happiness is a warm puppy,’ and now, thanks to Goodyear, these future service dogs get a sky-high sendoff aboard an iconic blimp – a perfect start to a lifetime of service.”
When the airship descended in Carson, a celebratory crowd awaited. Staff and volunteers from Canine Companions greeted the puppies before sending them onward to their puppy raisers, who would guide the young dogs through their first year of training.
Over the next 16 to 18 months, the volunteers would provide safe homes, basic obedience lessons, and rich socialization experiences, laying the foundation for professional service dog instruction. For many of these pups, the blimp journey became the symbolic first step toward a career of enhancing independence for children, adults, and veterans with disabilities.