September is National Service Dog Month

September is National Service Dog Month! This month is dedicated to showing appreciation and raising awareness for the amazing work that service animals do every day for the people they serve and care for.

Dogs in general are very receptive to the emotions and well-being of the humans they love, but service animals have gone through very rigorous and specific training to earn their titles to be able to do the extra work that they do.

Who Uses Service Dogs?

Service dogs can help people with a wide variety of medical conditions such as autism, blindness, seizure disorders, hearing impairments, diabetes, and anyone who may need physical assistance. They can also serve wounded warriors suffering from conditions such as PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, and mobility issues.

Beyond just helping people with the physical demands of life, dogs can also do amazing things to improve the quality of life of their people by inspiring confidence and independence.

Service dogs love the work that they do. It makes them feel needed as they serve and assist their handlers and live full and rich lives.

Origin of National Service Dog Month

National Service Dog Month actually began as National Guide Dog Month and began in 2008. It was established by actor and animal lover Dick Van Patten after he paid a visit to Guide Dogs of the Desert in California. He was so touched by what he saw that he began fundraising to benefit guide and service dog training schools all over the country.

His initiative has turned into an annual celebration and reflection on the brave and selfless work that service dogs do for us.

For more information on service dogs, check out this article! How are you going to celebrate National Service Dog Month?