2017 Service Dog Conference “Leash of Leadership” Awards

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Written by K9 Partners for Patriots

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News

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July 20, 2017

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.

To Increase Access To Service Dogs for Military Veterans with PTSD

Washington, DC – Seizing an opportunity provided by The Association of Service Dog Providers for Military Veterans (ASDPMV), of which K9 Partners for Patriots is a member, K9P4P CEO Mary Peter and Veteran Liaison Ron Flaville are scheduled to meet Thursday with select members of Congress and discuss the benefits well-trained service dogs are capable of providing for veterans with PTSD, TBI and/or MST.

“Leash of Leadership” Awards

At its annual conference this week the ASDPMV presented its “Leash of Leadership” Awards to recognize representatives who have gone above and beyond to assist organizations who provide service dogs to disabled veterans.

Awards were given to Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT); Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12th Dist.); Rep. Ron DeSantis (R-FL 6th Dist.); John Rutherford (R-FL-4th); Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD-8th) and Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY-21st).

DeSantis recently reintroduced the bipartisan Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers (PAWS) Act in order to expand access to service dogs for veterans with PTSD. The PAWS Act is now one of three bills before Congress aimed at recognizing the many benefits of service dogs and improving access to them.

“We have asked our veterans to endure great sacrifice so that we may live in freedom ; we must provide the best possible care to those bearing invisible wounds of war such as post-traumatic stress,” DeSantis said. “I have seen first-hand how specially-trained service dogs can mitigate the symptoms of post-traumatic stress for veterans who have been failed by traditional therapies.”

“By working and training in our program together with their service dog, our veterans are able to gain confidence, improve relationships and take a positive path forward,” said Mary Peter. “It doesn’t happen overnight but the tremendous bond they build offers a solid foundation that pills can’t provide.”