06/11/2026
Meet one of our members!
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Team Buttercup
How long have you been with Canines for Christ? What inspired you to get involved?
Funny question—I honestly don't remember exactly when we first got involved. We got Buttercup in the spring of 2021, so it was sometime after that, probably around the spring of 2023.
We were looking for a way to serve our community and share the love of Jesus through therapy dogs. Many times, people open up more easily when they are around furry companions, making dogs a wonderful way to reach people who might otherwise be difficult to connect with.
My son has a service dog, and we saw firsthand how valuable a four-legged friend can be in helping someone navigate life's challenges. That experience led us to explore different ways dogs could serve others. We eventually stumbled upon Canines for Christ and immediately thought, "That's it!"
Watching how much my son's service dog impacted his life inspired us to train our own dogs to make a difference in the lives of others. Buttercup and I started by helping our friends in blue through Hope for Heroes, an organization that provides first responders with free getaways in the Boerne area. Brad welcomed us with open arms, and it has been a joy to visit Boerne and see law enforcement officers and first responders experience the love of Jesus in action. Buttercup has become a familiar face there, and we have a deep appreciation for our police officers and first responders.
Meet Your Therapy Partner
Buttercup is a Bernedoodle (a Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix) who is highly energetic yet the sweetest dog I've ever known. We spent two years training her to become a therapy dog.
People are often amazed by her jumping ability—we actually trained her to jump on command to help curb unwanted jumping on people—and by how affectionate she is. She has never met a stranger or a ball she didn't like! Many times, I have to stop her from giving too many kisses.
Most of all, she loves people and enjoys receiving pets and attention from those we are ministering to. Her favorite pastime is anything involving water. She is a natural swimmer and loves jumping into the water. If we take a walk near a lake, river, or pond, she'll whine until she gets the chance to swim. She loves pool parties and will stay in the water until she's practically exhausted.
Most Memorable Moment
There isn't just one memorable moment with Buttercup. Whenever we visit police officers through Hope for Heroes, it is heartwarming to watch her lean into those who need love and comfort, especially the children of first responders. Seeing the joy and peace she brings to people never gets old.
How Has This Experience Impacted You? What Impact Do You Think Our Teams Make in the Community?
Jesus' command to share God's love and the Gospel with the world is at the heart of Canines for Christ. Buttercup makes that mission both easier and more meaningful.
When I feel nervous about approaching someone, Buttercup never hesitates. She eagerly goes to people, which naturally leads me into conversations and creates opportunities to share the love of Jesus.
Throughout Scripture, Jesus and His disciples used different approaches to reach people. I am reminded of Paul in Athens when he observed the many idols and altars dedicated to various gods. Rather than condemning the people, he used what he saw as a bridge to introduce them to the one true God and His Son, Jesus Christ.
In much the same way, our therapy dogs serve as bridges that help overcome barriers people often put up. They create connections that open doors for encouragement, compassion, and conversations about faith.
Advice for Future Members
Therapy dog work takes patience, patience, and more patience. Training a dog can be challenging, but the rewards are tremendous. Stick with it and see how God can work in and through both you and your four-legged friend.
Fun Fact About You or Your Pup
Buttercup is a natural dock diver! The one and only time we took her dock diving, she instinctively tucked her legs and launched herself off the platform like a seasoned pro.
Favorite Quote or Scripture
"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'" — 2 Corinthians 12:9
God can use anything to bring glory to Himself. He can use imperfect human beings and even four-legged animals that He created. The most important thing is to rely on Him rather than on yourself... or even your dog!
