Honoring Service Dogs: Our Canine Heroes
September is National Service Dog Month, a time dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the incredible contributions of service dogs across various fields. These extraordinary animals play crucial roles in the lives of countless individuals, providing not only practical assistance but also offering companionship, emotional support, and, in some cases, saving lives. At College Hills Veterinary Hospital, we deeply value the work these canine heroes do, and we are proud to share our own experience with Dr. Kim Stewart’s service dog, Seamus, highlighting the impact service dogs have on the community.
The Impact of Service Dogs
National Service Dog Month is an opportunity to recognize these dogs and educate the public about them. Service dogs are more than just companions—they are highly skilled professional dogs and their work profoundly impacts lives. Whether assisting our brave soldiers in war zones, aiding law enforcement, guiding the visually impaired, providing comfort to veterans with PTSD, or conducting Search and Rescue operations, these remarkable dogs empower their handlers to navigate the world with greater ease and independence. Service dogs play a vital role in enhancing the lives of those they assist, from locating missing individuals and finding survivors in disaster areas to offering support in everyday challenges.
National Service Dog Month is an opportunity to recognize these dogs and educate the public about their roles and the rigorous training they undergo. At College Hills Veterinary Hospital, we are committed to supporting the health and well-being of service dogs, understanding that their roles demand the highest level of care and attention.
The Story of Seamus: From Family Pet to Search and Rescue Hero
Dr. Kim Stewart, our esteemed veterinarian and College Hills Veterinary Hospital founder, has always believed in dogs’ remarkable abilities. Her Labrador Retriever, Seamus, is a shining example of what a dog can achieve with proper training, dedication, and a strong bond with its handler. Realizing Labrador Retrievers have a natural hunting instinct, Dr. Stewart decided Seamus was an excellent candidate to use his hunting instincts for something else—Search and Rescue.
Training a SAR dog is no small feat. It requires specialized training for the dog, which takes months. Under Dr. Stewart’s careful guidance, he underwent rigorous training, honing his natural instincts and learning advanced skills to prepare him for the demanding Search and Rescue dog role. Seamus can track scents over long distances, navigate challenging terrains, and stay focused under pressure. He has even gained the unique ability to perform search and rescue in water.
We are proud to share a special video interview featuring Dr. Kim Stewart and Seamus for a glimpse of what it means to train a Search and Rescue dog, the dangers they encounter, and its impact on saving lives. Click on the link below to watch Dr. Kim Stewart’s interview with Speaking of Pets: https://youtu.be/EtFiDs8E34Y?si=wDBJwjTXlR-sR-sc
Supporting Service Dogs: The Heroes Among Us
There are numerous ways to support service dogs and the organizations that train them. Many service dog organizations operate as non-profits and rely heavily on public support to continue their vital work. Recognizing National Service Dog Month can be both meaningful and impactful. Here are five ways you can participate and show your appreciation:
1. Support Service Dog Organizations
Donate
Many service dog organizations are non-profits that rely on donations to train, care for, and place service dogs with those in need. Consider making a financial contribution to these organizations to help support their mission.
Volunteer
Offer your time to a local service dog training organization. Volunteering can involve anything from helping with events to fostering dogs in training.
Sponsor a Service Dog
Some organizations offer sponsorship programs where individuals or groups can fund the training of a service dog, following the dog’s journey from puppy to working professional.
2. Support Legislation for Service Dogs
Advocate for laws and policies that protect the rights of service dogs and their handlers. This includes supporting accessibility in public spaces, housing, and employment.
3. Respect Service Dogs in Public
When encountering a service dog, it’s important to respect that the dog is working. Avoid distracting the dog by petting or interacting with it without the handler’s permission.
4. Support Local Service Dog Events
Many communities host fundraisers, walkathons, or other National Service Dog Month events. Participating in these events raises money and shows support for the cause.
5. Send Care Packages
Some organizations allow you to send care packages to service dog teams. These can include items like dog treats, toys, or grooming supplies.
By engaging in these activities, individuals can help raise awareness about the crucial roles that service dogs play and the importance of supporting them and their handlers. National Service Dog Month is a perfect time to reflect on and contribute to the lives of these amazing dogs and the people they assist.
Veterinarians Trained in Specialized Care for Working Dogs
As a veterinary hospital, we play our part by ensuring that service dogs receive the best possible care. We understand the demanding roles required of service dogs and the need to keep them in peak physical condition. Regular check-ups, tailored wellness plans, and veterinary therapeutic laser therapy are all part of our commitment to keeping these dogs healthy and ready to perform their duties.
Dr. Kim Stewart is certified as a Working Dog Practitioner through the Penn Vet Working Dog Center program at the University of Pennsylvania College of Veterinary Medicine. This extensive course trains the veterinarian to work hand-in-hand with the canine handler to help working dogs who face higher physical exertion, increased risk for injury, and greater exposure to hazardous substances and environments that these working dogs are exposed to. Veterinarians can expand their skills and services by getting such training and learning how to effectively address these needs.
Join Us in Celebrating National Service Dog Month
At College Hills Veterinary Hospital, we deeply value the incredible work that service dogs do. Whether or not you have a service dog, you can still support these amazing animals by spreading awareness and sharing their stories. If Seamus’s story inspires you, consider donating to organizations that train service dogs or volunteering your time. And, of course, if you have a dog of your own, we’re here to provide them with the best possible care. Contact us to schedule a wellness check-up and ensure your furry friend is as healthy as possible.
Warm Regards,
Your Team at
College Hills Veterinary Hospital
