SEPTEMBER IS NATIONAL SERVICE DOG AWARENESS MONTH
Service dogs have the special ability to comfort and give strength to veterans working to overcome challenges. September, National Service Dog Awareness Month, is a great time to honor and salute these loyal companions.
The VFW urges all veterans who have experiences with service dogs, working dogs, therapy dogs and emotional support dogs to submit a brief story through the #StillServing website at todaysvfw.org/stillserving-dogs.
“Dogs often have a special bond with humans, and are even called ‘man’s best friend’ because they mean so much to us. Often, that’s a result of how much they do for us and alongside us,” stated Fritz Mihelcic, VFW National Commander. “Veterans value the experiences they have with dogs whether that’s as a service member or in the workplace or their personal lives after transitioning out of the military.”
This new initiative is seeking a wide range of stories including, but not limited to:
- Service dogs or therapy dogs aiding veterans with physical or mental injuries.
- Veterans who benefit from emotional support dogs.
- Veterans involved in training service dogs, working dogs or therapy dogs.
- Dogs who assisted service members during a military operation.
- Veterans employed with a police department K-9 unit.
“We value the outstanding service these wonderful animals are able to provide and want to recognize dogs who have been or currently are a great help to us,” Mihelcic said. “There are many veterans continuing to answer the call of duty or overcoming challenges in their lives, and we know that some of them can’t imagine doing that without a special dog by their side.”
If you’re a veteran who is #StillServing with your special dog, share your story at todaysvfw.org/stillserving-dogs.