Meeting Congressman Bilirakis

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Written by K9 Partners for Patriots

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Articles | News

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July 4, 2016

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.

Congressman Bilirakis, K9 Partners for Patriots Mary Peter and Shasta

On June 23rd, 2016 Mary Peter had the distinct privilege to meet with Congressman Bilirakis in his office in Washington D.C. Congressman Bilirakis has long been an advocate for veterans and their families. He specifically requested a seat on the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and now serves proudly as Vice-Chairman for the Committee. He has worked throughout his tenure in Congress to ensure veterans receive quality and timely services while promoting transparency throughout the VA.

K9 P4P Grant Coordinator, Ed DeSantis had managed to schedule meetings with 3 Florida district Congressmen, Nugent, DeSantis and Bilirakis. Although we did have the opportunity to meet with Congressman Nugent and Congressman DeSantis aides, Congressman Bilirakis was the only one that was able to meet with us in person.

Gus Bilirakis, Mary Peter of K9 Partners for Patriots

In the wake of a mass shooting in Orlando and an overnight sit-in at congress, our two scheduled appointments with Congressman Nugent and Congressman DeSantis had not panned out as we hoped they might. We were feeling a little discouraged at this point and weren’t expecting much as we made our way to the Rayburn building for our scheduled appointment with Congressman Bilirakis.

Upon arriving at Congressman Bilirakis’ office his staff was very pleasant and accommodating. They offered us all water and were even prepared with a bowl of water for Shasta. The Congressman’s Senior Policy Advisor, Joe Dallas Millado invited us back and we were told that the congressman was trying to get to the office. It almost felt like the professional courtesy set up for the inevitable, “sorry, he’s not going to be able to make it” scenario. But low and behold, his advisor looked over the top of my head and said, “there he is”, the Congressman had arrived! We later learned that he had excused himself from a meeting to honor his appointment with K9 P4P.