Service Dogs; More Than Medical Equipment
Service Dog: a domesticated animal and usually a dog that is trained to perform a supportive function for its owner( Merriam- Webster Dictionary).
The formal definition does not even begin to describe what a service dog is to its human. It means independence and security. It means knowing you have a partner that will always have your back. You have a furry family member who is always willing to give you a helping paw. Technically they are called “ medical equipment” I have not meant one person that would ever classify their service dog in that manner.
September is National Service Dog month. Exciting news for service dogs and their humans happened on June 6, 2023. The United States Senate designated September 20th as National Service Dog Day! Did you know over 60 million Americans live with some sort of disability.
After hundreds, maybe even close to a thousand plus hours on July 29th Zelda Sayre and I officially finished our service dog training with Sam Ivy K-9 Consultants, and we passed all our tests with flying colors. We will always and forever be in “training” since places and situations are ever changing.
Why did you need a service dog? A question you may be wondering. I can tell you my health situation has changed somewhat; however, I am still able to operate my business without any major issues. Zelda Sayre has given me the confidence to go back into retail establishments and not worry about having a human companion with me. She makes me feel safe again. She alerts me before something happens. She truly gives me my life back. It is so hard to put in words. This is something not every person will understand.
Our journey has been long and sometimes trying but in the end it was worth the tears and frustration to get to the accomplishments. As I sit here writing my blog entry with Zelda Sayre right by my side. I look at her and wonder where I would be right now without you? What would my life look like? Where would be confidence level be? You push me to do things outside my comfort zone and for that I Thank you with all my heart and soul.
Have a Barktastic week. Remember to give your furry family members lots of attention you are their entire world. ~Charley
