100 lives changed through a decade of service

PeopleNonprofit

Jan 19

Written By Staff

Crystal Snyder
Photo courtesy of Paws With A Cause

When Crystal Snyder started a job at Paws With A Cause (PAWS), she set a simple goal: to help advance the organization’s mission. Today, she has reached a milestone that extends far beyond supporting the organization itself. This month, Crystal will place WALT, her 100th custom-trained assistance dog, with a person living with a disability. WALT will provide mobility assistance for his partner, including opening doors, retrieving dropped items, and more.

Crystal’s journey with PAWS began more than 10 years ago in canine care, where she fed dogs, cleaned kennels, and supported daily operations. Over time, she worked her way into dog training and ultimately into her current leadership role as training manager. Over the past decade, Crystal has trained 100 assistance dogs. Behind that number are 100 individuals across the country whose daily lives have become more accessible through carefully trained partnerships.

Crystal’s assistance dogs have been placed with clients across West Michigan and in 30 states nationwide. Each of the 100 dogs she has trained is uniquely prepared to meet the specific needs of its future partner. That work often requires Crystal to design custom task training and, in some cases, develop entirely new training methods so a dog can perform a task tailored to a client’s daily life. This individualized approach ensures every partnership is built to provide meaningful, practical support.

For Crystal, the milestone is about more than reaching a number.

“Training my 100th dog is incredibly meaningful, not just because of the number, but because of the lives behind it,” said Snyder. “Every dog represents a person gaining independence, confidence, and a new partner. WALT is no exception, and I’m honored to be part of his journey.”

PAWS leadership says Crystal’s impact reaches far beyond her training work.

“Crystal’s story is a powerful example of what’s possible at PAWS,” said Michele Suchovsky, CEO of PAWS With A Cause. “She started with a deep love for our dogs and a willingness to learn, and she grew into an exceptional trainer and leader. Her 100th placement is not only a personal milestone; it reflects the lasting impact she’s made on our clients, our organization, and the assistance dog community.”

As PAWS celebrates this milestone, the organization is also looking ahead. The nonprofit is now hiring trainer assistants, an entry-level position designed to provide hands-on experience and a clear pathway toward becoming an assistance dog trainer, just like Crystal. To learn more, visit https://pawswithacause.org/.

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