How Service Dogs Can Help Veterans Reach the Peak of Independence A discharge date should be the signal of promise and opportunity in a hero’s life. However, for some, this date could be the beginning of an invisible war known as PTSD. At Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines, our service dogs for veterans are customtrained to help wounded warriors gain independence and reintegrate into their families and society. Luis, a graduate from our veterans’ program, achieved a significant milestone because of his service dog, Shield. “For some reason, hiking has been something I stopped doing due to the ever-growing lack of solitude and the large groups of people,” he said. Even though it made him uncomfortable, Luis knew he and Shield could conquer a hike with some perseverance and teamwork. The COVID-19 pandemic left his neighborhood streets lonely and quiet — a silver lining of opportunity to work on being outside with no one around. Eventually, their walks progressed and the trust Luis put into Shield prepared them for the milestone ahead. “With plenty of snacks, treats, and water, we made our way to the top of Iron Mountain and spent a few hours at the peak,” Luis said. “As a team, we continue to break barriers I couldn’t have done alone. We are always growing together.” Our service dogs for veterans are provided at no cost to the recipients across the U.S. and Canada. They become trusted companions and help their partners gain greater confidence, mobility and independence.
RAISE A PUPPY... CHANGE A LIFE! Open your home and your heart, to a future service dog in-training
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Text “PUPPY” to 51555 Or Call: (818) 362-5834 www.guidedogsofamerica.org 30 WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022
