Service Dogs

I've always loved dogs and I've always known how they - and animals in general - add so much to our lives.

After the horror in Newtown, CT I started following a group of service dogs on Facebook. I saw them on CNN and fell in love with them.

They are from Lutheran Charities Comfort Dogs Program

This is Isiah, as you can see he's in training.

I also discovered  Warrior Canine Connection  a group in Maryland who train dogs to become companions for soldiers returning from war with physical and physiological challenges.

Right now a group of 5 puppies, born on December 28th, 2012, are being trained.

You can catch their antics on the  Nursery Cam

As I've said before, animals are some of the best people I know.

I hope the VA and Congress release more funding for service dogs and that healthcare institutions recognize their value. Right now just about all the costs for service dogs are funded privately.

Comfort

I was watching CNN's coverage of the memorial service in Newtown, CT when a group of dogs arrived outside the high school.

They are from ...Lutheran Charities Comfort Dogs Program
Recently they have visited victims of Hurricane Sandy. They go wherever comfort is needed.

Later, dogs from Hudson Valley Golden Retriever Club also arrived.

The dogs will stay as long as needed; they will help ease the fears of returning to school and will distract people from the endless heartbreak of 26 funerals.

"Dogs are nonjudgmental. They are loving. They are accepting of anyone," Hetzner (head of the Lutheran Charities group) said. "It creates the atmosphere for people to share."