How Prairie Animal Assistance began and how the mission evolved.
From training assistance dogs to becoming a sanctuary for special-needs animals, our mission has evolved to meet the needs of animals who need us most.
1997
The organization began with a clear mission: to train assistance dogs for people with disabilities. Using positive reinforcement and clicker training methods, we helped transform dogs into skilled companions who could provide independence and support to their handlers.
2008
As we encountered more animals with complex medical and behavioural needs, we expanded our focus to include rescue and rehabilitation. We began accepting animals who were considered “unadoptable” — those with disabilities, chronic conditions, and severe trauma. Our sanctuary became a place where these animals could receive the specialized care they needed for the rest of their lives.
Present
Today, Prairie Animal Assistance continues to provide sanctuary, rehabilitation, and education. We care for animals with a wide range of special needs while teaching the community about humane training methods, animal welfare, and the incredible resilience of animals who have overcome adversity.
Founder Laurisa Osheski recognized that many animals with special needs were being overlooked by traditional rescue organizations. These animals — those with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or severe behavioural issues — often faced euthanasia simply because they required more time, resources, and expertise than most shelters could provide.
Laurisa believed that every animal deserves a chance at a good life, regardless of their challenges. She envisioned a sanctuary where animals could receive individualized care, where healing happened at their own pace, and where they would never have to fear abandonment again.
That vision became Prairie Animal Assistance — a place where animals are not defined by their limitations, but celebrated for their strength, resilience, and capacity for joy.
Over the years, Prairie Animal Assistance has touched countless lives — both animal and human. Our work extends far beyond the animals in our direct care.
We have provided permanent homes and rehabilitation for dozens of special-needs animals who had nowhere else to go.
Through classes, youth programs, and demonstrations, we’ve taught humane training methods to hundreds of people.
Our animals have overcome incredible challenges, proving that with patience and compassion, healing is possible.
