Hobby Donations for Veterans

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Written by K9 Partners for Patriots

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Donations | News

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May 28, 2015

Discover why flea markets may not be the best environment for service dogs.

Learn about risks, distractions, and considerations for handlers.

1. Crowded Environment: Flea markets are often bustling with crowds, which can be overwhelming for a service dog. The dog may become stressed or anxious in such a busy atmosphere.

2. Distractions: Flea markets are filled with various sights, sounds, and smells that can distract a service dog from its duties. This could potentially compromise its ability to assist its handler effectively.

3. Unpredictable Behavior of Other Animals: Other visitors to the flea market may bring their pets along, which can lead to encounters with unfamiliar animals. This may pose a risk to the safety and focus of the service dog.

4. Risk of Injury: With so many people moving around and browsing items, there’s an increased risk of accidental tripping or stepping on the service dog, which could lead to injury.

5. Exposure to Unsanitary Conditions: Flea markets may not always maintain the cleanest environment, and the service dog may come into contact with unsanitary surfaces or substances.

6. Lack of Accommodation for the Dog: Flea markets may not be equipped to handle service dogs properly, such as providing suitable resting areas, water, or relief spots for the dog.

7. Potential Stress for the Dog: A flea market’s constant stimulation and unfamiliar surroundings could cause stress or discomfort for the service dog, which may affect its overall well-being and ability to perform its tasks.

Given these factors, it’s important for service dog handlers to carefully consider whether taking their dog to a flea market is truly necessary and in the best interest of the dog’s welfare and effectiveness in assisting its handler.

For my K9 Partners for Patriots Program People

I have some really cool things donated to you all here at the training center. I was given boxes of

kits – model cars, helicopter, motorcycle (limited number)
woodworking kits
lots of leather working kits to make all sorts of things
arts and crafts – painting, bead work, drawing, etc.

They are all free and for any of you that would like to have them. You can sit here, at the K9 Partners for Patriots Training Center and work on things or take them home. Some of them you could do with your kids as well.

There is a card that comes with each kit that they ask that you put your name and address (THIS IS NOT MANDATORY). They just want to know that it went to a Veteran because it all goes to help hospitalized Veterans. You can use our P4P address if you decide to do this. The more cards we send back, the more they will continue to give us in the future and continue to help our hospitalized Veterans.

Anyway, no strings attached either way – come and pick out some things you would like to have and enjoy. They are in your Veteran room.

Mary