K9 Partners for Patriots Increases PTSD Awareness with Help from Willie Nelson

Press Release - K9 Partners for Patriots

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Written by K9 Partners for Patriots

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News | Press Release

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November 18, 2020

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 IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Gregg Laskoski
Mobile: 352-345-5829

K9 PARTNERS FOR PATRIOTS INCREASES PTSD AWARENESS WITH HELP FROM WILLIE NELSON

BROOKSVILLE, FL (NOV 18, 2020) — /PRNewswire/ — To generate greater awareness of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and prevent veteran suicide, K9 Partners for Patriots has produced ‘Too Sick to Pray’, a video featuring Willie Nelson’s song of the same title from his Spirit CD, (1996).

Too Sick to Pray Video

K9 Partners for Patriots Backstage with Willie Nelson

“How this came about falls somewhere between good fortune and divine intervention,” said Gregg Laskoski, communications director, K9 Partners for Patriots. “The first song my daughter, Lauren, ever sang was on that Spirit CD and she was about three years old at the time… Listening recently to the same CD gave me a sense of ‘discovery’ because it became clear that ‘Too Sick to Pray’ applies perfectly to our veterans struggling with PTSD. That song is a gem that was hidden in plain view.”

When Willie Nelson appeared at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, FL, (2/14/20) for a performance with his sons, Lukas and Micah, they all met with a small group from K9 Partners for Patriots and learned how service dogs help veterans with PTSD find their path forward.

“If we didn’t have Willie’s blessing, we wouldn’t have done this video,” said Mary Peter, founder and executive director of training operations, K9 Partners for Patriots. “He thanked us for using his song!”

“We cannot begin to express the gratitude and admiration we have for Willie, Lukas, Micah and the entire Nelson family,” added Peter. “And, we are especially grateful for the message shared on Willie’s Facebook page expressing support for our program.

“God bless him!” she said.

K9 Partners for Patriots K9PartnersForPatriots.org is a nonprofit 501c3 organization based in Brooksville, FL. We exist to prevent veteran suicide, to provide hope and healing for those struggling with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury or Military Sexual Trauma. Together we provide a positive path forward through the experience of training and caring for their own service dog in a safe environment of camaraderie, friendship & family that brings veterans from self-doubt to self-confidence; from isolation to reconnection.
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