If you are familiar with service dogs, you may already know that they can be trained to perform everyday tasks such as guiding visually impaired individuals or assisting with mobility or hearing impairment, etc. But did you know that service dogs can perform various other lesser-known tasks?
From alerting to PTSD episodes to detecting changes in blood sugar levels, service dogs can be trained to do a wide range of amazing tasks.
What Makes Service Dogs So Versatile?
Service dogs are extraordinary animals with a unique blend of innate abilities and rigorous training, making them incredibly versatile. Their heightened senses, particularly their keen sense of smell and acute hearing, allow them to detect subtle changes in their environment or the people they assist, such as shifts in blood chemistry.
At Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, we further enhance and refine these abilities through extensive, specialized training that equips them to perform a wide range of tasks tailored to the specific needs of their recipient. These qualities make service dogs reliable assistants for daily tasks and irreplaceable partners in enhancing independence and quality of life. Many of these tasks cannot be performed by a caregiver, nor do we have any medical technology that can do what a dog can do.
Unconventional Tasks Performed by Service Dogs
Service dogs are widely known for their ability to guide and assist, but their capabilities extend far beyond the basics. These exceptional animals are trained to perform various unconventional tasks that address unique medical and neurological needs.
Medical Alert Skills
Service dogs play a critical role in monitoring their recipient’s health by detecting subtle changes in the body. For individuals with diabetes, they can sense shifts in blood sugar levels and alert their recipient before a dangerous episode occurs, giving them time to take preventative action.
For individuals living with epilepsy, service dogs provide life-changing assistance. They have the remarkable ability to detect early signs of an impending seizure, even before the individual is aware of it. This gives the recipient time to get to a safe place or prepare for the episode.
Service dogs may fetch medication during or after a seizure, alert others to the situation, or position themselves to protect their recipient from injury.
Helping Individuals with Neurological Conditions
Service dogs offer invaluable assistance to people with neurological disorders. For those with conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, these dogs can provide stability, help with mobility, and retrieve dropped items, reducing the risk of falls.
PTSD Support and Beyond
Service dogs are also trained to smell the chemical changes linked to anxiety or PTSD episodes, allowing their recipient to manage escalating symptoms. For example, we teach our service dogs to recognize an event such as a nightmare so they can wake the recipient from the nightmare before it can escalate, allowing the recipient to then resume sleeping.
Service dogs are also trained to use their physical presence to effectively deter anxiety-inducing triggers such as large crowds by performing tasks such as shielding, where they use their bodies to create a non-aggressive barrier between the recipient and other people.
These specialized skills demonstrate that service dogs are more than helpers; they are lifelines for people facing complex medical and neurological challenges. Their ability to perform such diverse tasks highlights their incredible training and the deep bond they share with their recipients.
Types of Advanced Training Service Dogs Complete
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs’ service dogs are trained in basic commands like sit, stay, heel, come, etc. These positions are helpful during their task training and when they begin working.
Through our advanced training, our service dogs are trained on various tasks, with specific training tailored to the needs of their recipient and the recipient’s disability. These tasks are designed to help the recipient lead an independent life. Service dogs are trained in a range of tasks, including:
Retrieving dropped items
Providing balance
Helping a fallen person back to a standing position
Turning lights on and off
Opening/closing doors
Retrieving the phone
Alerting before a seizure
Alerting diabetic recipients to low or high blood sugar levels
Shielding and grounding from anxiety/panic attacks and flashbacks
Waking the recipient from nightmares
Helping a fallen person back to a standing position
Help a person transition from sitting to standing
The Differences Between a Service Dog and a Therapy Dog
When learning about service dogs and their special skills, knowing how they differ from therapy dogs is essential.
Medical service dogs are specially trained to perform a variety of tasks that mitigate the challenges of individuals with disabilities.
A service dog is protected by federal law because it is much like medical equipment with a heartbeat. Service dogs are permitted to go anywhere the public is allowed to go, such as concert venues, restaurants, hotels, malls, and more.
Service dogs are highly trained and are not considered pets in any way, shape, or form, so they do not fall under any pet regulations. For example, a no pet policy in a hotel would not apply to a service dog.
On the other hand, therapy dogs are considered pets and are not granted the same access to the public as service dogs since they are not protected under any special laws. Therapy dogs are trained to provide comfort and affection to people in retirement homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, etc. They are wonderful animals who do a great job of bringing smiles and comfort to those in need.
Legitimate therapy dogs undergo extensive socialization exercises and obedience training to ensure they provide a friendly, positive experience. They are required to have a Therapy Dog Certification, but they do not have the same public access privileges that a medical service dog is granted by law.
Want to Learn More About Service Dogs?
If you want to learn more about service dogs, you can contact us with any questions or visit our What Are Service Dogs? Page.
Become part of our mission to pair medical service dogs with veterans, first responders, and others with permanent disabilities by donating today!
As we celebrate our 15th anniversary, we are grateful for your support, honored to help our recipients, and humbled by our service dogs’ life-changing impact. (more…)
We are thrilled to ring in 2025!
First, I want to thank all our amazing partners, volunteers, donors and staff that made 2024 another memorable year. We couldn’t do it without everyone’s combined efforts year after year. (more…)
With the holidays fast approaching, shopping, celebrations, and meals out at your favorite restaurant with family and friends are common occurrences. If you are a recipient or someone who may encounter a service dog this holiday season, there are several things to keep in mind regarding proper etiquette and safety.
At Guardian Angels Service Dogs, we’ve put together tips for recipients and others who may encounter a service dog to help them navigate the holiday season more easily and joyfully.
Tips for Visiting Someone’s Home for the Holidays
For our recipients who are invited to gatherings, it is important to remember that your service dog is federally protected in public spaces but not in private homes. If you are invited to a holiday party, you should speak with the host or hostess, informing them that you would like to attend the event but have a service dog who is required to be with you 24/7.
Ensure they know you will have the dog on a leash, and they will be right at your side for the entire party. Also, ask them if they have pets of their own. If so, they could, for example, have a territorial dog, creating an unsafe situation for both animals. Unless the host is willing to keep their pet in a separate room during the party, it may be best for you to politely decline the invitation.
While we hate seeing recipients miss out on events, having a service dog requires lifestyle changes. You may have to make sacrifices to avoid an incident or other situation.
Good, healthy conversations and education are critical when navigating situations like this, and they should have been occurring between you and your friends and family all along. If the host is not a friend or family member or someone who doesn’t understand the situation, politely declining your invitation is the most sensible action. No one is required to allow you into their home with your service dog.
Keeping Holiday Party Foods Away From Service Dogs
In addition to many popular holiday foods containing ingredients that can be toxic to dogs, we never allow our service dogs to have people’s food. While it can be tempting to give the dog a special treat of people food during the holidays, it’s crucial to avoid this. Once service dogs, or any dog, eat people food, they will smell the same thing in the future and immediately be attracted to it. Because they’ve had it before, they will think it is okay to have it again.
Dogs can’t understand that something is “special” or okay to have in some instances but not others. Dogs need consistency, so we never offer people food to our service dogs. Whether you are the recipient or a person encountering a service dog, do not give them any people food, no matter the occasion.
How Can I Interact with a Service Dog?
It’s important to never attempt to pet or speak to a service dog. Service dogs are always working. Even if they are sleeping or lying down, they are in tune with their recipient’s needs and must remain focused to ensure they can be alert to any issues. Distracting a service dog could cause them to miss a queue, which could be catastrophic for the recipient.
If you are interested in the service dog, speak directly to the recipient. You can ask them questions about the dog and offer them kind words on how beautiful or nicely behaved it is, but never directly engage with the service dog.
Get Into the Spirit of Giving with Guardian Angels
The year 2024 proved to be challenging for many nonprofit organizations, including service dog organizations, with donations across various sectors declining by 20-40%. This significant reduction in donations has made it increasingly difficult to address critical needs in our society.
At Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, our unwavering commitment is to bridge a vital gap for veterans, first responders, and civilians with disabilities. With a proven track record of success, we remain steadfast in our mission—but sustaining and expanding this life-changing work requires funding.
Our mission transforms lives, empowering recipients to regain confidence and independence. These exceptional service dogs bring hope and light to those who need it most. This holiday season, your generosity can help us continue to train, care for, and pair these incredible service dogs with deserving individuals.
Donate today!
Kelly Forbes, Veterinary Hospital Manager, began her career at Guardian Angels Medical Services Dogs as a Certified Veterinary Technician. In March, she will have been with the organization for two years. She holds an Associate’s Degree in Veterinary Technology from the Vet Tech Institute in Pittsburgh and a Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Science from Pennsylvania State University. (more…)
We’re thrilled to invite you to the highlight of our year: our 15th Anniversary Party, happening on May 17, 2025, in Pittsburgh. This unforgettable evening, titled “An Evening of Inspiring Tales and Tails,” promises inspiration, celebration, and connection like never before. (more…)
What a challenging year 2024 has been. So many people in our country were negatively affected by rising costs. For most, there was tremendous attention paid to this year’s election as it gripped our nation, and our communities were further distracted with great trepidation of the unrest unfolding worldwide. Closer to home the readiness of our campus was tested by two hurricanes, while others across the country lost everything. As a result, philanthropy across the entire non-profit sector of our country has been seriously impacted. (more…)
Each year, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs invites our Recipients to enter their dog in our Service Dog Hero of the Year Awards. This award recognizes a Guardian Angels Medical Service Dog who goes above and beyond the call of their training and displays extraordinary efforts to avoid a tragedy. (more…)
Laurie McGruder, who is paired with service dog Kash, has overcome many challenges with her service dog by her side. After a break-in at her home in March 2009, Laurie suffered from severe PTSD. “I was in a constant state of panic and oftentimes refused to leave my bedroom. My health deteriorated, and my chronic pain, migraines, and seizures were out of control,” Laurie said. (more…)
New Partnership Brings Critical Mental Health and Wellness Resources to Veterans and Individuals Facing Trauma Nationwide
November 12, 2024 – Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, a pioneering leader in the service dog industry, has announced an innovative new partnership with mental health experts from One Brother One Sister to provide holistic support for veterans, first responders, and others needing advanced mental health resources. This strategic alliance brings together decades of specialized mental health expertise dedicated to supporting individuals coping with trauma, addiction, and mental health challenges alongside Guardian Angels’ acclaimed service dogs. Together, these organizations are set to profoundly impact mental health care, integrating emotional support with service dog assistance in unprecedented ways.
Since its founding nearly 15 years ago, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs has set a gold standard in the service dog industry. The organization has empowered countless recipients to regain independence, overcome traumatic experiences, and foster lasting personal growth. Guardian Angels’ success rates highlight this: recipients experience a zero suicide rate and an impressively low divorce rate of less than 3%. With the introduction of this partnership, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs takes an innovative step forward, adding a dedicated layer of mental health support to benefit its recipients and their families further.
Bringing Leading Mental Health Support to the Service Dog Industry
The partnership with One Brother One Sister introduces the expertise of three leading mental health professionals: Karyn Hurley, Scott Jones, and Joe Kelley. Collectively, these professionals offer deep expertise in trauma support, addiction recovery, and mental health counseling, backed by rigorous credentials, including accreditation from the Florida Certification Board and education provider status with NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals.
As advocates for trauma recovery and mental wellness, Hurley, Jones, and Kelley are passionate about providing educational resources, ongoing training, and critical assistance to recipients at no cost. “Our work is driven by a vision of a world where trauma and mental health struggles are recognized, understood, and effectively treated,” said Karyn Hurley, Co-Founder of One Brother One Sister. “By partnering with Guardian Angels, we’re bridging a significant gap in holistic care, offering a foundation of mental health support that complements the life-changing work these extraordinary service dogs provide.”
A Perfect Match: Guardian Angels and One Brother One Sister
This collaboration addresses a vital need within the service dog community: long-term mental health resources for those who have often experienced significant trauma. Through this alliance, Guardian Angels recipients now have access to specialized support, including counseling, mental health resources, and resilience-building techniques. This holistic approach aligns perfectly with Guardian Angels’ mission to empower individuals and enrich lives, creating an environment of safety and support for recipients and their families.
One Brother One Sister’s co-founders recognized the immense value Guardian Angels brings to communities nationwide. Joe Kelley, First Responder Wellness Liaison at One Brother One Sister, shared, “Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is already making a profound impact on mental well-being through their expertly trained service dogs. This partnership further supports these remarkable recipients, blending our expertise with theirs to drive industry-wide change.”
Industry-Leading Results and a New Milestone for Service Dog Programs
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs and One Brother One Sister are determined to set a new benchmark in the service dog industry. This partnership aims to validate further the extraordinary capabilities of service dogs, whose dedication transforms lives daily, and to highlight the critical role that ongoing mental health support plays in recovery and resilience.
“We are proud to be at the forefront of integrating specialized mental health resources into our service dog programs,” said Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs spokesperson. “The work of our service dogs is remarkable, and by collaborating with One Brother One Sister, we are elevating the quality of care for our recipients and advocating for greater respect and clarity for this industry.”
About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs
Since its inception, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. has served veterans, first responders, and individuals facing trauma. The organization’s highly trained service dogs are paired with recipients to address various needs, including mobility assistance, seizure alert, and emotional support. Guardian Angels is committed to continually advancing the service dog industry through innovative approaches, training programs, and partnerships that enhance the quality of life for their recipients.
For More Information
For more information on Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs and its collaboration with One Brother One Sister, please visit medicalservicedogs.org or 1brother1sister.com.
As we continue to see the amazing capabilities and potential of service dogs, it is important to look towards the future and determine how we can further improve their training and support. At Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, we strive to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to advancing service dog training and laws to ensure that our recipients receive the life-changing assistance they need to thrive.
2023 Congressional Initiative to Advance the Medical Service Dog Industry
In December 2023, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs was selected to participate with two dozen other medical service dog organizations nationwide in a special initiative mandated by Congress. The main objective of this program will be to determine if the in-depth details outlined in the initiative for training and pairing service dogs meet the needs of permanently disabled service members and veterans.
This initiative, directed by Danny Benbassat, Ph.D., Commander of the U.S. Public Health Service, along with Jeremy Ramirez, DrPH, MPH, a distinguished Veteran and Assistant Professor of Health Informatics at California State University Long Beach, has been set into motion.
This initiative aims to uphold stringent safety protocols for service dogs and the general public while employing data-informed methodologies for the enhanced betterment of one of the most vulnerable communities they serve. Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs brings nearly 15 years of experience and state-of-the-art service dog programs to this initiative.
We have collaborated with other service dog organizations, pooling our wealth of knowledge and best practices. This information is being used to polish and elevate prototype guidelines for future service dog organizations. These guidelines will be the gold standard for training and matching service dogs with service members and veterans.
After a meeting in Washington, D.C., the information the organizations gathered was provided to Congress. They have determined that this initiative is going well and plan to extend it for another year or possibly another four years.
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs was selected to continue with some of the other organizations in this initiative. The main goal of this initiative is to improve all the protocols across the board for the service dog industry, from the dog’s health to their training, and to qualify them for pairing with recipients, as well as the selection and training of the recipient.
We are also focused on what happens once the pairing is done, including all the follow-up elements that are critically important to improving the industry. This initiative includes 113 elements, and while it is a massive undertaking, Guardian Angels is committed to the process to ensure we can contribute to making the industry the best it can be, protecting the communities we serve, and ensuring they receive only the best.
With this initiative, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is on the cutting edge of raising the bar at a federal level for excellence in service dog training and pairing. We hope that a federal designation will eventually serve as the highest designation for a service dog organization, demonstrating that they are practicing all of these critical protocols that the initiative is currently developing.
If this federal designation becomes a reality, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs would be one of the first organizations to receive this type of designation. We are truly honored to participate in this initiative and continue to work towards improving the lives of those in need through the use of highly trained service dogs. We hope that with continued research and collaboration, we can pave the way for even more innovative techniques and strategies in service dog training and support.
6-Stage Proprietary Training Method at Guardian Angels Medical Service
Dogs Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs remains at the forefront of innovation in service dog training. We use our own six-stage Proprietary Training Method, which was developed by Founder and CEO Carol Borden. Additionally, this college-accredited program teaches apprentices how to become service dog trainers since many pet dog trainers, police dog trainers, etc., have never trained service dogs or studied disabilities. This program has also been approved by the VA under the GI Bill.
Our service dog training contains multiple components that are far above and beyond the training for other types of disciplines, such as:
- How to train a dog to alert on a certain high or low for diabetes
- Alert in advance for a seizure
- How to know when to hit an emergency help button if you are incapacitated
- How to wake someone from a night terror
Our service dogs are also exercised and practiced on confidence-building courses as part of their specialized training. These courses teach them how to navigate stairs and deal with a variety of moving objects, helping them adapt to real-life scenarios they may encounter at home or in public.
Our service dog training covers everything a well-trained service dog needs to know. From basic commands, house training, and learning what to play with and what not to to specialized tasks like diabetic alert, retrieving dropped items, etc., as well as public desensitization to help them remain focused on their recipient in public. Our service dog training has remained steady simply because our methods are effective and have an extremely high success rate.
All of our trainers and service dog staff, regardless of department, are required to take on certain elements of the service dog training and care. This ensures that everyone is practicing the same things and the same way with the dogs to prevent confusion during training.
Our training curriculum continues to be effective, allowing us to successfully pair highly trained service dogs with veterans, first responders, and civilians living with disabilities.
Looking to the Future with Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs
As we look ahead to the future of service dogs, it is evident that ongoing innovation and excellence in training and support are critical. Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs stands at the forefront of these advancements, continually pushing the boundaries to ensure that veterans, first responders, and civilians living with disabilities receive the highest-quality assistance.
Through participation in the 2023 Congressional Initiative and the implementation of our six-stage Proprietary Training Method, we are committed to setting the gold standard in service dog training. The potential federal designation represents a significant milestone, offering a beacon of hope and a promise of unparalleled quality and safety in the service dog industry.
Collaboration and research will remain integral to our mission, fostering a community of shared knowledge and best practices that will drive future innovations.
With each success, we light the way for even more groundbreaking techniques and strategies, ensuring those in need can lead fuller, more independent lives. To learn more about how you can help support our mission, visit our Donate page today!
Service dogs play an invaluable role in the lives of many individuals, providing not only companionship but essential assistance in daily activities. From guiding those who are visually impaired to alerting their handlers about medical conditions, these highly trained animals are indispensable partners.
However, the presence of service dogs in public spaces requires a specific set of etiquette guidelines to ensure they can perform their duties without disruption.
Understanding and respecting service dog etiquette is crucial for everyone. Whether you’re a service dog recipient, an employer, or someone who encounters them in public, knowing the do’s and don’ts can help create a more inclusive and supportive environment. This article aims to highlight the importance of proper behavior around service dogs, offering practical tips and insights to foster respect and harmony.
By adhering to these guidelines, we can all contribute to making public spaces more accessible and accommodating for those who rely on service dogs. So, let’s dive in and explore the key aspects of service dog etiquette that everyone should know.
Etiquette Tips for Service Dog Recipients
As a recipient, it is your responsibility to ensure that your dog behaves politely in public and within your place of business. You have total control over your dog’s actions, and it is essential for the dog to behave appropriately, as required by both federal and most state laws.
If your dog causes damage to merchandise, soils the premises, lifts its leg on objects, threatens someone, or acts aggressively, presenting a public safety threat, it is entirely within the rights of the establishment to ask that your dog be removed. If your service dog does become disruptive, it is critical that you take all necessary steps immediately to ensure they cause no further issues.
It’s also important to note that you cannot be denied access to any public
establishments like a restaurant because of your service dog. One public venue that you should be very respectful of is visiting a zoo. There are many areas you should not visit as these exotic animals may see a dog as a predator and injure themselves in a panic.
When taking your service dog somewhere like a restaurant, ensure they are wearing their vest (even though this is not required by law, it does help you avoid unnecessary confrontation) and lying under the table so they do not block foot traffic for other guests and waitstaff. Service dogs should never be allowed onto chairs or in the booth. Keeping them lying down and close to you will help prevent disruptions.
At Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, we use the one-foot rule, which means your service dog should never be more than one foot away from you at all times. This ensures that they are not bothering other patrons, looking for crumbs on the floor, and remain attentive to you. If you have a job, you must introduce your service dog to your place of employment.
The first thing a recipient should do is ask their employer for a reasonable
accommodation. This means that you are informing them that you need to bring your service dog to work with you due to your disability. Your employer does not have to make any special modifications to their business or your position; they are just required to allow you to bring the service dog to work.
If they request you to complete paperwork, you can do so as long as they aren’t asking you any personal questions since your medical information is protected under HIPPA. If you have any questions or issues with the paperwork, check with the EEOC or your state disability services. Additionally, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dog can assist you if you have questions.
When you go to work with your service dog, it is recommended that a meeting is held with your fellow employees and other staff members. This will allow you to introduce your service dog to your coworkers. You don’t have to disclose your disability, but just that the dog is trained to assist you with your disability. It is also a chance for you to lay the ground rules for others at your job so they understand not to talk to your service dog or give them treats or any other distractions that could take away from their ability to be attentive to you.
Etiquette Tips for Business Owners
As a business owner, you may wonder how to handle when a service dog is brought into your establishment. By federal law, those who have a service dog are not required to have a certification or identification for their dog. Service dogs are not required by law to wear a service dog harness, bandana, or any other identifying accessories. We require our service dogs to wear a vest in public to help avoid confrontation or other issues, even though it is not a legal requirement.
Business owners should remember that they can’t ask recipients about the details of the disability or require any proof of certification for their animal. When encountering an individual with a service, it is critical to remember that some disabilities are invisible, so be sure to approach the situation with respect. If an individual enters your business with a service dog, you can legally ask them the following:
- Is this a service dog?
- What tasks does this dog perform for you?
If the service dog is disruptive or posing a risk to your customers or staff due to their behavior, you have the right to deny access. If the dog is causing issues such as stealing food or soiling the premises and the recipient can’t get the dog under control, it is appropriate for you to ask them to leave. You can’t ask them to leave just because someone is allergic to or afraid of dogs.
Some business owners may be uncomfortable with a service dog entering their business, but it is important to allow access to individuals with service animals to ensure compliance with the law while also creating an atmosphere of inclusion and respect for all employees and customers.
If you have any questions about how to handle a service animal in your place of business, it is best to consult with your state EEOC to ensure your rights and the rights of the individual with the service animal are respected. You can also refer to this guide, which answers multiple questions at https://www.ada.gov/resources/service-animals-faqs/
Etiquette Tips for the General Public
As a member of the public, it is essential to remember that service dogs are working animals and should not be distracted from their duties. Additionally, never ask for proof or documentation of someone’s disability or their need for a service dog. This information is private and protected by law. Respect their privacy and focus instead on treating them with kindness and understanding.
Finally, always ask for permission before petting or interacting with a service dog. While they may be cute and friendly, these dogs are on the job and must remain focused on their handler’s needs. Ignoring this rule can cause disruptions and even put the recipient in danger if the dog misses an important signal or cue.
Many recipients are already navigating a world where they do not feel comfortable, so it’s important not to create a confrontational experience for them. If you have questions or comments, be sure to direct them to the recipient respectfully and avoid asking any personal or medical questions.
Have Questions? Contact Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Today!
Understanding and practicing proper service dog etiquette is essential for creating a respectful and supportive environment for the service dog team, employers, business owners, and the general public. By following these do’s and don’ts, we can all play a part in fostering a community that values and supports the vital work of service dogs.
If you have questions about service dogs or our medical service dog organization, we are happy to help! You can contact us today to learn more.
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Announces Anonymous Donor Sponsorship for Annual Mutt Strut and AKC Fit Dog Walk – Free Tickets for One Day Only.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Pittsburgh, PA – October 3, 2024—Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is excited to announce that an anonymous donor has generously pledged to cover the cost of event tickets for one day only for the upcoming Annual Mutt Strut and AKC Fit Dog Walk, taking place on October 4, 2024. Thanks to this amazing gesture, all attendees can join the event at no cost for this limited time if they register by midnight on October 4th, 2024.
The Annual Mutt Strut will be held at the Great Lawn on the North Shore, providing a scenic and welcoming space for pet lovers and their four-legged friends. Additionally, free parking will be available for the first 200 attendees in Gold Lot 2. Event registration begins at 11:00 AM, and the lot opens for attendees at 10:30 AM.
Celebrating over 10 years, the Mutt Strut has grown to become one of Pittsburgh’s most beloved annual events, with strong support from prominent sponsors such as PNC Bank, United Rentals, Lamar, The Pittsburgh Pirates, Higher Images, and Bully Max, among others. Each year, the event brings together Veterans, First Responders, their families, pets, and the community for a day of fun and fundraising in support of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs.
This year’s event will also feature the AKC Fit Dog Walk, a scenic walk along the Riverfront Park and Monongahela River. Participants will stroll from the event’s entrance, following the river to PNC Park and back, creating a beautiful backdrop for dog lovers.
In addition to the walk, attendees will enjoy:
- Service Dog Demonstrations: Witness these highly trained medical service dogs’ incredible abilities and learn how they improve the lives of those with disabilities.
- Pet & Owner Costume Contest: Bring your creativity and compete in the contest for best-dressed pairs! The contest will announce the winners of the YaJagoff Dog and the Top 3 Prizes for best costumes.
- Pet Dog Tricks: Relax and enjoy the show with some of the area’s most talented dog trainers and their four-legged friends as they show off their talents!
- LocalPet Related Vendors and the PNC Grow Up Great Tent will be on-site to provide activities for kids and raise funds and awareness about the life-changing impact of Medical Service Dogs.
- Auction Baskets and 50/50 Raffle: Bid on unique gifts from the local area, including signed Pittsburgh Pirates, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Pittsburgh Steelers Autographed Memorabilia.
Chad Tyson from WDVE will host the event as the Master of Ceremony, and DJ Adam Powerbomb will provide music throughout the day. The Pet Costume Contest will be co-hosted by John Chamberlain and Rachael Rennebeck from YaJagoff (KDKA), alongside Daisy Jade from Pittsburgh Today Live and On Air Kristen from Q92.9.
“We are incredibly thankful for our anonymous donor’s generosity, which will allow us to make this event accessible to even more people for one day,” said Mary Jo Brandt from Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs. “This is a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together and support our mission while enjoying a day of fun activities with their pets.”
Event Details:
- Date: October 5, 2024
- Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Location: The Great Lawn on the North Shore, Pittsburgh, PA
- Parking: Free for the first 200 attendees in Gold Lot 1 – Lot opens at 10:30 AM
Join us for a fun-filled day while supporting a worthy cause! Thanks to the anonymous donation, tickets are free for one day only, so don’t miss this chance to be part of this amazing fundraiser and community event.
About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs:
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that rescues, raises and trains highly skilled medical service dogs for veterans, first responders, and civilians in need. Since 2010, they have paired over 400 medical service dogs with deserving recipients, helping them regain independence and improve their quality of life.
For more information about the event, to register for free tickets, or how to support Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, please visit www.themuttstrut.org or contact Brian DeLong at bdelong@medicalservicedog.org
Media Contact:
Linda Jo Thornberg
Public Relations
412-203-1996
lindajo@medicalservicedogs.org
- Furthering Defender brand’s commitment to aiding and honoring organizations who serve their communities, Defender is proud to announce the 25 finalists across 5 categories for the 2024 Defender Service Awards presented by CHASE
- CHASE, the presenting sponsor, is donating $5,000 to each of the 25 category finalists to expand their mission
- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs of Williston, Florida, has been selected as a finalist in the category Veteran & Civil Servant Outreach – Presented by Hearts & Science.
- The public can cast their votes for their favorite charitable organizations from October 2nd, 2024, through October 17th, 2024, generating the ultimate category winners
- Based on the public vote, each category winner will be awarded a new Defender 130 vehicle that will be customized to align with their mission of service
- Category sponsors, including Hearts and Science, PELICAN, OUTSIDE Interactive inc., ei3 and Disney will award $25,000 to each category winner
- The winners of the 2024 Defender Service Awards presented by CHASE will be announced at Destination Defender on November 23, 2024, at Calamigos Ranch in Malibu, California.
- For information and rules1,2 on the Defender Service Awards presented by CHASE visit www.landroverusa.com / www.landrover.ca
Mahwah, NJ – October 2, 2024: Today, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs was announced as a finalist in the Veteran & Civil Servant Outreach category presented by Hearts & Science.
in the fourth annual ‘Defender Services Awards’ presented by CHASE. The awards showcase the British adventure brand’s longstanding commitment to aiding and honoring organizations who serve their communities. Each of the 25 U.S. non-profit and Canadian registered charities across five categories reflect the Defender brand’s enduring commitment to bringing positive impact to communities through acts of service and humanitarian efforts around the world.
Public voting, which will take place from October 2nd, 2024, through October 17th, 2024, will ultimately decide the winning organizations for each category. The winning organizations will each receive a new Defender 130 vehicle that will be fully customized to best address their needs, and awarded $25,000 by their category sponsor, empowering them to further their missions.
Built for purpose. The Defender 130 is equipped with three rows of seating for up to eight volunteers and ample space with 88.9 cubic feet (2,516 liters) of load capacity to enhance each charities’ efforts. The winning organization will be able to customize their vehicle with robust Defender accessories that will meet the challenges of their mission, along with a custom exterior vehicle wrap.
Corporate partners have joined this initiative to provide further support for the respective organizations across the different categories. CHASE, as presenting sponsor, will donate $5,000 to each of the five finalists per category, for a total of $150,000 across 30 finalists. A new premier partner, S&P Global has joined as a sponsor of the awards program. Category sponsors include OUTSIDE Interactive Inc., ei3, PELICAN, Hearts & Sciences and Disney. Each category sponsor will also donate $25,000 to its respective category winner.
Sam Allen, Defender U.S. Brand Director, said: “Each year we are incredibly inspired by the video submissions for the Defender Service Awards from organizations throughout North America and their tireless acts of service for their communities. This initiative is a reflection on the Defender brand’s commitment to supporting and furthering humanitarian efforts across the globe.”
A sixth category, Defender Service Honorees, is designed for past 2021-2023 finalists who have been given a second chance to win a custom Defender 130 vehicle. These worthy organizations did not win their category, however their continued support of their communities and need for a capable vehicle warrants a second chance.
Public voting will take place from October 2nd, 2024, through October 17th, 2024, to determine the ultimate winners of the six categories of the 2024 Defender Service Awards. To view the finalist videos and vote, please visit Defender Service Awards at https://www.landroverusa.com/experiences/events-and-sponsorships/defender-service-awards/index.html
The winning organization from each of the six categories will be announced at this year’s Destination Defender event. Encouraging participants to embrace the impossible, the weekend celebration will take place from November 22-24, 2024, at Calamigos Ranch in Malibu, California, and will feature Defender experiences that channel the adventurous spirit of the brand. A special evening celebration on November 23rd will be held to announce the six winning organizations.
The Defender family of models, 90, 110, 130, continues to expand and evolve to suit the many uses by their owners. Defender OCTA, the new high‑performance hero will be available in North America for the 2025 model year. Featuring a V8 Twin Turbo, producing 636hp, 6D Dynamics Air Suspension, and active exhaust system, Defender OCTA will offer an unparalleled breadth of capability, comfort and composure, whether on‑road or off‑road. New for 2025 model year, optional second‑row Captain Chairs are available in the Defender 130 to provide comfort and luxury with aisle access to the spacious third row.
To learn more about the 2024 Defender Service Awards, please visit https://www.landroverusa.com/experiences/events‑and‑sponsorships/defender‑service‑awards/index.html
- ABBREVIATED RULES. NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Begins on June 17, 2024, to Oct 17, 2024. TO ENTER MUST BE 18 YEARS OR OLDER IN THE 50 UNITED STATES AND D.C., PUERTO RICO, OR CANADA, AN ELIGIBLE CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION, AND HAVE AT LEAST ONE DIRECTOR THAT IS 18 YEARS OR OLDER RESIDING IN THE 50 UNITED STATES AND D.C., PUERTO RICO, OR CANADA. Contest is void where prohibited by law. Contest subject to the complete Official Rules. Visit www.landroverusa.com/experiences/events‑and‑sponsorships/defender‑service‑awards/index.html or www.landrover.ca/en/experiences/sponsorship/defender‑service‑awards/index.html for Official Rules and prize descriptions. Sponsor: Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC, 100 Jaguar Land Rover Way, Mahwah, NJ 07495.
- Information and rules on the ‘Defender Service Awards’ presented by Chase can be found here, and Canadian rules can be found here.
ENDS
About the Defender Brand
Defender embraces the impossible. Each member of the Defender family is purposefully designed, highly desirable and seriously durable. A modern-day hero that respects the past but at the same time anticipates the future.
Available in 90, 110 and 130 body styles, with up to eight seats, each has a charisma of its own.
A beacon of liberty since 1948, Defender supports humanitarian and conservation work with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the Tusk Trust.
The Defender brand is underpinned by Land Rover – a mark of trust built on 75 years of expertise in technology and off-road capability.
Defender vehicles are designed and engineered in the UK and sold in 121 countries. It belongs to the JLR house of brands alongside Range Rover, Discovery and Jaguar.
Important notice
JLR is constantly seeking ways to improve the specification, design and production of its vehicles, parts and accessories and alterations take place continually. Whilst every effort is made to produce up-to-date literature, this document should not be regarded as an infallible guide to current specifications or availability, nor does it constitute an offer for the sale of any particular vehicle, part or accessory.
Further Information
Joe Stauble
PR Manager JLR North America
T: 201.818.8127
Jstauble@jaguarlandrover.com
Jeff Ehoodin
Land Rover PR Senior Specialist
T: 201.906.7818
Jehoodin@jaguarlandrover.com
Media website: https://media.landrover.com/
Social Channels:
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@defender
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Defender
Twitter/X: https://x.com/Defender
Instagram:http://instagram.com/defender
YouTube:http://www.youtube.com/LandRover
About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a nonprofit organization dedicated to training and donating highly skilled medical service dogs for individuals living with disabilities, with a focus on U.S. military veterans and first responders. With an emphasis on enhancing the lives and independence of their recipients, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs has successfully paired hundreds of dogs with deserving individuals, making a positive impact on families and communities across the nation.
Mary Jo Brandt
COO
T: 800.398.6102
mj@medicalservicedogs.org
For many veterans, transitioning back to civilian life after serving in the military is fraught with physical and emotional challenges. Among these, mobility issues caused by injuries received during their service stand out as a significant barrier to achieving everyday independence and quality of life.
Service dogs are specially trained to assist individuals with disabilities, including those related to mobility. For veterans, service dogs offer physical assistance while also having the ability to alert in advance to PTSD episodes such as anxiety/panic attacks, nightmares, seizures, and/or diabetic alert etc.
This article explores how service dogs are revolutionizing mobility for veterans, shedding light on their training, specific tasks, and profound impact on the lives of those who have served. As we explore this topic, we’ll uncover the incredible ways service dogs are helping veterans regain their independence and navigate the complexities of daily life with confidence and ease.
The Many Ways Service Dogs Can Assist with Mobility
At Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, we can train and pair dogs for veterans who have lost a limb or have suffered other injuries that have left them permanently disabled. These dogs are trained in various tasks, including retrieving dropped items, opening and closing doors, turning light switches on and off, providing physical support for balance or stability, and more.
Moreover, service dogs can also help with tasks that may seem small but significantly impact a veteran’s daily life. For example, they can assist with fetching items from the refrigerator or pantry, hitting buttons to open doors or elevators, etc. These seemingly simple tasks can be challenging for those with mobility issues and can often lead to frustration, loss of independence, and depression.
There are different levels of mobility among those who require assistance, so each dog is specifically trained to meet the needs of its recipient. Some veterans may have vertigo due to a brain injury or a leg that gives out, so a service dog can be trained to provide them with balance. The service dog can also be trained to brace for veterans who need help getting out of a chair or bed.
For assistance with mobility, our service dogs are trained to wear balance harnesses, which look similar to a guide dog harness and feature a bar the recipient can hold onto. During our application process, we get an in-depth look at the veteran’s disability and challenges, training their service dog to their specific needs.
How Service Dogs Are Trained to Brace
When teaching them how to brace, we first teach them to stand by giving them a command. At the same time, we scratch their belly and put a small amount of pressure on their shoulders. When using a service dog to brace, you never want to place pressure anywhere else on their back. Bracing on a service dog using any other part of their body can result in injury, so it must always be done directly over their shoulders.
While training, we gradually add pressure, but a dog should never hold a person’s entire weight. Bracing is a task offering some assistance to aid in balance but is not intended to provide total support.
Our service dogs often learn this command quickly. Once they understand it, we practice various positions, like getting off the ground, sitting down from a standing position, or getting up from a chair. We work with them on the maneuvers with this command to ensure they are trained in various situations where bracing may be needed.
What Other Ways Do Service Dogs Assist Veterans?
In many cases, a veteran’s mobility issues can also be combined with PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, or seizures. Using scent samples, these dogs learn to detect changes in blood chemistry, allowing them to alert their handlers to the onset of PTSD-induced nightmares, hypervigilance, anger, or anxiety attacks. This same methodology is applied to teach service dogs to recognize changes in blood sugar levels or impending seizures, giving recipients advance notice to take necessary precautions.
Additionally, service dogs are trained to respond to chemical imbalances that trigger anxiety or panic attacks by nuzzling, licking, standing over, or pawing at their handlers. These actions remind the individual to take medication or use relaxation techniques. For those with PTSD, service dogs provide an added layer of assistance in public or unfamiliar settings through a task known as “shielding.”
Positioning themselves between their handler and an approaching stranger helps prevent potential triggers, thereby reducing anxiety and enhancing the handler’s confidence in navigating daily life. These amazing animals provide their recipients with nonjudgmental and unconditional love. In addition, they offer veterans who feel isolated and lonely a way to improve their mental well-being by simply being by their side 24/7, unlike other forms of treatments or therapy that are temporary.
More than twenty-two veterans die by suicide each day, with over 39 daily attempts in 2023, and numbers are rising at alarming rates. Service Dogs play a significant role in preventing suicide. In the last 14 years, we’ve had many people come to us who had suicide attempts and ideations, but with the assistance of our service dogs, we have not had a suicide among our recipients.
Service dogs also may help veterans dramatically reduce the number of medications they take. Many veterans take multiple medications to manage their nightmares, anxiety, etc. With the assistance of a service dog and under their doctor’s care, they can often reduce or get off their medications.
A service dog’s presence can also improve a veteran’s overall life. In the US, we have a divorce rate of about 47%; for those with a disabled family member, this rises by an additional 90%.
With the help of service dogs, veterans can significantly improve their quality of life and relationships. Our service dogs help create a more positive home environment and prevent secondary factors in veteran families, such as intergenerational PTSD.
How You Can Make an Impact on Veterans’ Lives
In conclusion, the transformative role of service dogs in the lives of veterans cannot be overstated. These remarkable, highly skilled canines enhance mobility and independence, foster emotional healing, and build confidence.
As veterans navigate the complexities of life after service, the unwavering support of a service dog can make all the difference, providing a sense of purpose and stability amidst challenges. By addressing both physical and mental health needs, service dogs play an essential role in restoring hope and enriching the lives of those who have bravely served.
As we continue to advocate for these incredible partnerships, we can cultivate a community of compassion and gratitude, ensuring every veteran receives the support they deserve. Together, we can foster a brighter future marked by resilience, healing, and the joyful companionship and assistance that service dogs so selflessly provide.
At Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, we provide veterans, first responders, and some civilians with service dogs who can help mitigate the challenges of PTSD and several other permanent disabilities, allowing them to re-enter society and reconnect with their loved ones. To learn more about our mission and how you can help provide service dogs for veterans, visit our website today!
