Dogs are regarded as man’s closest friends because of their unconditional affection for their owners. By supporting individuals with disabilities, service dogs go above and beyond their typical doggo duties. We at BestVetCare wants to recognize these amazing dogs. As a result, we will be commemorating International Assistance Dog Week.
Significance of International Assistance Dog Week
- International Assistance Dog Week honors remarkable service dogs and the difference they make in the lives of people with disabilities.
- Assistance dogs significantly improve the lives of their human partners by being their greatest friend, serving as their companion, and assisting their owners.
- The holiday week also recognizes the trainers who help these dogs excel at their professions. Trainers put in a lot of time and effort, therefore it’s imperative to recognize and appreciate their efforts.
- The entertaining week also allows us to acknowledge and highlight amazing achievements committed by these diligent support dogs.
- Most importantly, it raises awareness for animals in need. The major purpose is to urge people to aid animals in need.
When is the 2021 International Assistance Dog Week?
Every year on the first Sunday of August, International Assistance Dog Week begins. This year’s celebration week runs from August 1st to August 7th. Make a note of it in your calendar to help raise awareness!
History of International Assistance Dog Week
- This holiday week was developed to honor the hardworking assistance dogs who assist people with disabilities. In 2010, Marcie Davis, a paraplegic herself, founded Paraplegic Awareness Week.
- Dogs began to be used as service dogs in battle in the 1700s. They were given the mission of assisting wounded soldiers throughout Europe.
- Guide Dogs for the Blind, a non-profit organization, was founded in California in 1942. This organization was in charge of establishing connections between blind people and helping dogs.
- The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 permitted service dogs to be guide dogs, signal dogs, or any other sort of help to a disabled person.
- The evolution of assistance dogs throughout the years has led to our society’s appreciation and admiration for these wonderful canines. Finally, we have a week just for them!
Different Kinds of Assistance Dogs
1. Service Dogs
Service dogs are dogs that have been taught to do duties for people who are disabled. These dogs can also be trained by their owners to help them with their wants and requirements.
2. Moral Support Dogs
Dogs bring comfort to persons suffering from various mental and emotional problems through affection and companionship.
3. Therapy Dogs
Therapy dogs are puppies who provide comfort and joy to people who have been impacted by illness or natural calamities. Their presence has a healing effect on people.
[Also Read] Benefits of Emotional Support Animals
Incapability Dogs Can Assist
- The condition of being blind
- Hearing Impairment
- Stroke
- Cardiovascular Illness
- Seizures Caused by Cancer
- Mobility Issues
- Diabetes-Related Mental Illnesses
How to Observe International Assistance Dog Week
1. Participate in Community Events
Investigate the types of events that are taking place in your town. Attend one of these events to celebrate the joy that these tireless canines offer to those in need!
2. Helping Hands
Helping animals in need is a great way to celebrate. Volunteer at your local animal shelter, make a monetary or time donation, or even adopt a dog in need of a loving home!
3. Increase Awareness
Inform your friends and colleagues about how these specially trained animals help so many people in our communities. Post on social media, start conversations and praise both the pups and the trainers.
4. Create Your Own Event
If there isn’t a formal celebration near you, take the initiative and create your own! Make it an enjoyable endeavor, with all earnings benefiting animal welfare.
Interesting Facts About Service Animals
Here are some interesting facts about International Assistance Dog Week that you may share with your friends:
- Service dogs of any color, size, or breed are accepted.
- They are permitted to accompany handlers in all public areas.
- Mini horses can also be used as government service animals.
- Assistance dogs are trained to assist people with special disabilities.
- Kirsch, a Golden Retriever, earned a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling after attending all of the classes with his crippled owner.
- Orient, a German Shepherd Seeing Eye dog, assisted his owner in hiking the 2,100-mile Appalachian Trail.
Dogs are incredible creatures, and assistance dogs are much more so. They assist a wide range of people all around the world and enable people with impairments to live more normal and pleasant lives. This year, remember to observe International Assistance Dog Week and help support shelter and rescue canines! Help your community by raising awareness of dogs, which may improve a person’s life.