Whether they’re acting as the eyes and ears of a hearing- or visually-impaired individual, ensuring the safety of a person with a debilitating mental condition, or fetching and carrying for someone who would otherwise struggle to live alone at home, assistance dogs are amazing. The companionship, support, and stimulation that these animals bring are unrivalled, and they are often the bridge between their pet parent and the outside world.
August 7th to August 13th is International Assistance Dog Week, a global event launched 35 years ago to honor the dedication of service dogs from every background and walk of life. Established thanks to the efforts of Marcie Davis, a paraplegic and member of a service dog team, International Assistance Dog Week ensures that no pet, trainer, or handler is without praise or beyond our thanks.
The goals of International Assistance Dog Week are laid out by the event's official website:
- To recognize and honor assistance dogs.
- To raise awareness and educate the public about assistance dogs.
- To honor those dedicated to raising and training assistance puppies.
- To recognize the heroic deeds performed by assistance dogs within our communities and beyond.
It takes a lot of hard work, dedication, and love for a puppy to become an assistance dog. However, once that bond has been formed, an assistance dog becomes an integral part of his new family.
Assistance dogs touch so many lives and enrich the daily activities of so many people. To find out more about the animals that aid us each day and this celebration of their dedication, visit the event’s official website.
If you have an assistance dog that has become an integral part of your life or know a family that has benefited from the services offered by these incredible canines, please do let us know. We would love to celebrate your special bond with you.
Photo ©iStock.com/Ljupco
