DC Comics has announced a yearlong partnership with Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC), the charity supported by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union). The collaboration aims to highlight the impact that trained service dogs can have on people’s lives.
The new initiative builds on last year’s joint effort at San Diego Comic-Con. This year, DC is sponsoring a litter of puppies who will be trained as guide and service dogs. These dogs are intended to assist individuals who are blind or visually impaired, veterans with PTSD or traumatic brain injuries, children with autism, and serve in public institutions as facility dogs.
In a break from tradition, GDA | TLC has named this group of puppies after well-known DC characters. The litter includes Krypto, Clark, Lois, Kara, and Lobo. Each puppy is described in relation to its namesake: “Krypto – Inspired by Superman’s loyal Superdog, where good dogs and great heroes meet; Clark – Mild-mannered, kind-hearted, and guided by strong morals; Lois – Smart, fearless, and always determined; Kara – Powerful, courageous, and learning to harness incredible abilities; Lobo – Bold, fearless, and unforgettable.”
After completing initial training known as puppy pre-kindergarten, these puppies will continue their development with volunteer raisers before eventually being matched with individuals in need.
Fans of DC Comics and supporters of GDA | TLC will be able to follow the progress of the puppies through events and social media updates over the coming year. There will also be opportunities for fans to meet the puppies in person at San Diego Comic-Con in July.
