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National Service Dog Month
National Service Dog Month
September 7
National Service Dog Month (National Guide Dog Month)
September is National Service Dog Month (National Guide Dog Month). National Service Dog Month knowledges the nonprofit organizations and service dogs that work hard every day to help people live better lives. Service dog organizations not only provide training and benefits. They also create a lifelong partnership between person and service dog that provides selfless assistance and unconditional love. Dogdrop, an LA based dog care company, understands what it’s like to work with dogs every day and knows how important it is to cherish the love and benefits dogs bring to our lives.
Dogdrop gives an insight into what a nonprofit service dog organization does. We have also provided some tips and ways that anyone can get involved and be part of a good cause. Wear an animal paw prints enamel awareness ribbon pin to call attention to this important awareness month. Personalized Cause offers both personalized and non-personalized awareness ribbon pins to call attention to National Service Dog Month.
What are some things people should consider before partnering with a service dog?
What are some tips about service dogs this National Service Dog Month?
Please respect a service dog that is working. When a service dog is in a harness/jacket, they have an important, sometimes life-saving job to do. We know they’re unbelievably cute and are begging to be pet, but please refrain.
DO:
- Do keep in mind the handler is supported by the service dog for daily life.
- Do offer help when appropriate, but do not insist.
- Do use an encounter with a service dog team as an opportunity to educate children.
DON’T:
- Do not pet the service dog without permission.
- Do not talk to the dog.
- Do not feed the dog.
- Do not make sounds to get the dog’s attention.
- Do not stare at the dog.
- Do not be offended if a handler says no to petting the dog or cannot chat with you about the dog.
What are some ways people can help nonprofit organizations such as Guide Dogs of America?
Get involved! No matter who you are or where you live, there is a way that you can help. While donations are always welcomed and appreciated, we understand that not everyone has the capacity to give.
- Start a fundraiser: It can be as simple as putting out a little collection jar at work. Facebook fundraisers are also great. With a few clicks of the button, you can reach out to hundreds of people!
- Volunteer: Many schools across the country rely on volunteers to keep day-to-day operations up and running. Volunteering is more than just cleaning kennels and walking dogs.
- Raise a puppy: This is the most important of them all. Service dog organizations are always looking for loving homes to foster and raise future guide/service dogs. Guide dog and service dog puppies are placed with carefully screened foster families and individuals, known as “puppy raisers,” when they are 8 weeks old, learning proper house manners, basic obedience, and providing experiences that will give them confidence in the world during the first year of their life.
As you see, service dogs play a vital role in the health and well-being of a person with a disability. When they are on the job, it’s essential that you don’t interrupt or distract them. The handler’s life depends on it!
