Where did you serve and what did you do?
Until the pandemic mess, my dog and I served as a registered therapy team at the Biloxi VA MC visiting the Blind Rehab and Mental Health Centers. We also visited a local hospital and assisted living facilities. With most facilities shut down, we now visit a behavioral health center, community senior center, Air Force Trainees and special requests. Doc is a black English Lab that serves as a therapy dog and is also my service dog.
Tell us how your dog is helping you continue #StillServing in your community.
He is a very intelligent and discerning dog. He loves people while still keeping his focus on me. When he is wearing his service vest he’s all business. Doc is a faithful companion who detects and responds to my needs.
Why do you do it?
When I first started with pet therapy 11 years ago, the ability to bring a little joy into the lives of the lonely, infirm and hurting proved to be a needed service which I received as much therapy as Pepper (my first therapy dog) was able to give. Doc picked up where he left off. My doctor later identified Doc as my service dog which has let me enjoy the best of both worlds. Service is a way of life for both of us.