September is National Service Dog Month

National Service Dog month is an opportunity to recognize the animals that have been specially trained to provide support for people in need who may be living with medical issues, impaired mobility, or addressing mental health needs. Although it has become popular for animals to offer emotional support, it is important to note that service animals are specially and professionally trained and are afforded special legal protections to be present with their human in places that typically would not allow animals or pets. National Service Dog month has been officially observed in Arizona by proclamation of the Governor and was first observed in 2008 through the efforts of actor Dick Van Patten. 

Read this blog to learn how the Be Connected team worked to help service dogs belonging to veteran athletes and veterans experiencing homelessness.

Photo Courtesy of the Department of Defense (DVIDS): Capt. Carmella Burruss, 22nd Operations Support Squadron deputy chief of wing intelligence, poses for a photo with Valco, May 25, 2016, at McConnell Air Force Base, Kan. Valco is a Labrador-Poodle mix who has been training with Burruss to get his certification from Therapy Dog International so he can work in Veterans Affairs hospitals. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Jenna K. Caldwell)