I learned some things about veteran service dogs while attending the Purina Better with Pets Summit. I always knew that service dogs were impressive, but never to the degree that I know now. Purina sponsored my trip to the summit, but all opinions are my own.
As I mentioned in my previous post, the Better with Pets Summit had several interactive displays. At one of the displays, we met Soldier Kent Phyfe and his service dog, Mike.
Veteran Service Dogs – 5 Things to Know
What service dogs can do – Training for service dogs vary depending on the veteran's needs. In Soldier Kent Phyfe's case, his dog completely changed – and possibly saved – his life. After serving our country, the soldier came home with neurocardiogenic syncope, a medical condition that causes him to unexpectedly faint. Mike is trained to react appropriately should he do so. He also opens doors, and even pulls the covers off of the soldier in case of a PTSD nightmare.
Don't interact with a service dog – At a different pet event (thank goodness), I reached out to pet a service dog. The look on the faces around me were straight up appalled. Apparently, I was the only one who didn't know that you never pet a service animal. I want to say I knew that somewhere deep in my brain, but the sight of a cute animal just makes me dumb, what can I say? 😉 In any case, service animals are working and should never be distracted from their jobs. Don't try to interact with them in any way.
Don't fake it with your dog – Thanks to social media making pets famous, many people have the urge to take their pet everywhere. Some have gone as far to buy a fake service dog vest so their animal will be allowed anywhere. No harm, right? WRONG. Veteran service dogs and all service animals undergo intense training. One of the most important things they are taught is to not get distracted by other animals. Soldier Kent Phyfe told us about a time where a dog wearing a service vest lunged at Mike on the subway. A legit and properly trained service dog would never do that.
Service dogs are not pets, but they are loved – The bond between Mike and Soldier Kent Phyfe was crystal clear. Mike didn't acknowledge us once during our conversation. He laid on the ground relaxed, but completely alert. Every once in a while, Mike would look up adoringly at the soldier.
You can name a service dog – I kind of chuckled when I found out the service dog's name is Mike. Not only because that's my husband's name, but because I love when dogs have human names. Training service dogs is extremely expensive, so donations are heavily relied upon. Donate enough and you can name the dog. Somewhere out there, there's a generous human Mike to thank for the incredible service dog, Mike.
Speaking with the soldier was one of the main highlights of the summit for me. I learned so much, and I am so happy to know that this program exists. For more info and how you can donate, visit VetDogs.org.
Thank you to Purina for the Better with Pets Summit. This is a prime example of how life is, in fact, Better with Pets. The next time you see a veteran service dog, be sure to give them extra respect – silently, of course. 😉
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Liz says
They are amazing and so beautiful.
Jennifer says
I agree! It’s a beautiful relationship, too!
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
Service dogs are truly amazing. They are such a gift to their owner and vice versa.
Tammilee Tips says
Service dogs are amazing!!! They make such a difference in their owners lives, especially soldiers they have done so much for our country.
Jennifer Sikora says
I saw a segment on tv yesterday with a guy who trains these dogs and the man sharing his story broke my heart. I love that these dogs help vets to get through their PTSD and other issues.
diane says
I have always been a huge advocate of the service dog programs. Those are some good looking pups and they love the work they do!
Shelley Zurek says
I have always had so many questions about service dogs. What a wonderful service for our vets. We have a lady in our church who raises them until they are ready to be trained.
Jeanette says
This is such a wonderful service for our vets! I think service dogs are one of the best things. Our vets can be lonely, sad, depressed or more and with a pet by their side it makes it much easy to get through.
Vera Sweeney says
What an amazing event to get to go to! Service dogs are so expensive to train, I love that there is a program to help our vets they sacrifice so much for our country.
Kelly Hutchinson says
What a wonderful program for our vets who suffer from various medial and psychological disorders. I think a service dog would be a great companion and help mate at the same time.
Marcie W. says
Service dogs do so much and are important for so many reasons. I knew you were not supposed to pet a service dog (at least without permission) but I am always tempted.
Jody Smith says
These are some great points to keep in mind! I always teach my kids not to reach out to any strange pet but especially service dogs we see out in public.
Jeanine says
I always try to remind my kids as quickly, and as much as I can when we see services dogs to not bother just look. Service dogs are so important and I think amazing!
Ann Bacciaglia says
I have been seeing a lot more service dogs around. This is important information i will have to share. I did not know you should not pet them.
Caroline Fernandez says
Thanks for the great information on Service Dogs. I will have to teach this to my kids.
Liz Mays says
They must share such a special bond. They really rely on each other! Service animals must be super smart.
Autumn @Mamachallenge says
That is really good information to know. I love seeing the special bond between the two of them.
Anne says
Great information, and I have seen a lot more service dogs around lately. It is good that these animals are able to help veterans.
Clo Nevaeh says
Service dogs are so important. We had a service dog for a while until he passed. He was great and we couldn’t have done thing without him. It’s great to share the importance.
Dogvills says
This is great information. I love reading stories about service dogs.
Amy Desrosiers says
I think it is great that these faithful dogs help those in need. I often see them when I am out and about and they seem like the BEST dogs ever!
Maryann D. says
I think these service dogs are wonderful. These are all fantastic photos and so terrific.
Sarah L says
I have a friend who uses a service dog for knowing when she might have a seizure.