I never stopped to think about how many ways therapy dogs enrich the lives of humans. From helping war veterans, to seniors, to the physically challenged, to the sick, to the grieving, these brilliant dogs and their trainers work hard to help people overcome tough obstacles. See https://www.akc.org/akctherapydog/organizations.cfm for a list of therapy dog organizations and groups. I would like to highlight two special missions.
Soldier’s Best Friend provides U.S. military veterans living with combat-related Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) with Service or Therapeutic Companion Dogs, most of which are rescued from local shelters. The veteran and dog train together to build a trusting relationship that saves two lives at once and inspires countless others. Their goal is to help war heroes improve in their symptoms of PTSD, adjust back into civilian life, lead a more productive life and help them build self esteem. They also want to help the pet overpopulation problem by helping place shelter or rescue dogs into good homes. See http://soldiersbestfriend.org/.
The Seeing Eye Puppy Raising Program is part of Seeing Eye, the organization that trains seeing eye dogs. Puppies are placed with loving families for a year where they are put through obedience training and taken to different environments to gain experience.
After the year, the pups are returned to Seeing Eye for evaluation and placement. The bond that forms between the puppies and family during that year is no doubt, strong. What a great way for parents to teach their children life lessons on change and responsibility and such a rewarding experience to know that your love and hard work will benefit the blind.
Read the article for the full story.
Those interested in raising a Seeing Eye Puppy can get information on how to apply at www.seeingeye.org.
Contact us for questions on a custom memorial urn for your beloved family member or precious pet at http://www.steveshannoncollection.com/contact.html.
