National Service Dog Month

Meade

As many of you know, I am a volunteer puppy-raiser for KSDS, a non-profit organization in Washington, Kansas, that breeds and trains service dogs for the disabled.  My first KSDS pup was Meade, who inspired this blog, and inspired me as well.  Meade left for college in February and may be graduating with a disabled partner soon.  I am proud to have been a part of her life and her training as a service dog.

This past April, KSDS honored me with another labrador pup, named Port, from the Wine Litter theme.  Port has been an adventure so far and is teaching me new things every day, along with filling my life with laughter and joy.

The point of today's blog is to spread the word of the importance these dogs play in so many people's lives.  October is National Service Dog Awareness Month.  Much work and dedication goes into the raising and training of these amazing dogs, that serve a vital role in the life of a person with disabilities. These dedicated dogs not only provide assistance to their partner, but also serve as their companions  and as a bridge between the disabled and non-disabled world.  If anyone is curious what a service dog can bring to a life, take the time to read a recent article about Alex and his KSDS service dog, Hope, in this issue of the KSDS newsletter, The Pathway.

While October is National Service Dog Awareness month, there would not be a month to recognize if it weren't for the organizations like KSDS and many other volunteers that work together, loving and training these dogs.  KSDS is a non-profit organization, and depends heavily on volunteers and donations from people just like you and me.  I am asking you, on behalf of KSDS, to help them to continue their goal in providing assistance to the disabled by donating towards their endeavors.  If you are a part of a organization or have a school classroom that takes on a project, this is a good one.  Last year Bourbon County Northwest 4-H club collected items from KSDS's Wish List and delivered them to me for mailing.

I continue to ask those that see Port and I around town and in the clinic to be mindful of what we are trying to accomplish.  When Port is dressed in his working uniform, please do not distract him from his learning by talking to him or petting him.  Someday he hopes to follow in Meade's footsteps and become an important part of someone's life.  You can help him to accomplish this goal by asking before you touch and donate to KSDS.