Transforming People’s Lives

Canon Medical Systems are proud sponsors of Support Dogs, a national charity that transforms the lives of people with a range of serious medical conditions through its extraordinary canine heroes. Enabling people living with epilepsy, autism or disabilities to lead safer, more independent lives.

With our support over the next two years a puppy will be trained in lifesaving skills, before being matched with a human owner to provide a lifetime of life-transforming assistance, care and independence.

Trained assistance dogs act as effectively as an individual carer, providing important health and wellbeing support to people that need an extra hand. For example, trained dogs are 100% reliable at pre-empting an epileptic seizure 50 minutes in advance. This can lower stress levels so that medication can be reduced and generally improve wellbeing, as well as reduce the frequency of health appointments.

This not only improves the quality of life for the individual and their family, but also for the wider health economy, with an estimated £19 million a year saving to the NHS.

Sam’s Story

At aged six, Sam Mills from Sheffield was unable to leave his house due to the social anxiety his autism caused. He has sensory difficulties meaning he struggles with noise and crowds, has severe anxiety and he also suffers from depression. One year of living with his support dog Willow and he has overcome debilitating and isolating issues from noise and busy social environments.

“Assistance dogs change lives. They breathe life and energy back into families that have been struggling to cope with everyday tasks or events. As we are solely funded by donations, partnerships with companies such as Canon Medical Systems UK are critical to ensure the flow of new puppies into our training scheme and enable more people across the UK to access the caring canine companion they need.”

Danny Anderson, Fundraising Manager at Support Dogs

See how super-dog Wadsley gave Brogan her life back




“For people living with constant anxiety, isolation or illness, a support dog brings so much positive change to their everyday lives. As part of our company 2020 Vision we feel that it isn’t just our role to supply diagnostic imaging systems to the NHS and independent hospitals, but that we have a moral obligation to promote good health and wellbeing beyond pure financial gains. Sponsoring a puppy through its 2-year specialist training will make such a difference to a family. This is one aspect of our #madeforlife campaign where we are focusing on respecting the health of our nation and our world.”

Mark Hitchman
Managing Director, Canon Medical Systems UK

Meet Conan, our new trainee Support Dog

Introducing Conan, the newest member to Canon Medical and Support Dogs. He joined Support Dogs at the start of July and now starts his long journey to becoming a lifesaving support dog. Conan has a regimented schedule over the next two months as he gets used to his surroundings and starts to build his confidence.

We’ll bring you updates with his progress throughout the training programme.