I found out
about a great organization last week and I just have to share.
Freedom Service Dogs of America. http://www.freedomservicedogs.org/
This is a nonprofit organization that
enhances the lives of people with disabilities by rescuing dogs and custom
training them for individual client needs. One program they offer specifically
touched my heart. It’s called Operation
Freedom.
From their website: Operation Freedom was developed to help
returning war veterans and military personnel transition from active duty and
combat to civilian life. Service members and veterans are placed with highly
specialized service dogs that help them find a new level of independence in
their post-combat life.
I was amazed by what they could train
these rescue dogs to do. From opening doors, picking up dropped items, helping
their owners out of bed when necessary, to even being a calming presence during
a night terror.
I had no idea an organization like
this existed. These men and women returning from war have given the ultimate sacrifice
to keep us safe. What better way to say thank you than to help them now in
their time of need.
Dogs are special in so many ways. My
little Westie is a stinker and keeps me on my toes, but she also fills my days
with lots of unconditional love and laughter.
Please take a second to check out the
site and help if you can. There are so many applicants at this time, they are
having a tough time keeping up with the requests. These rescue dogs are
awesome, but it does take about six months or so to train them and the
applicants need them ASAP. It’s so sad to think the government won’t step in
and help out when these returning heroes should be a number one priority.