In a touching and exciting collaboration, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs and the Pittsburgh Pirates have come together to introduce the newest member of the Pirates family—Slugger, the team dog. Selected by fans from a lineup of names including Bandit, Homer, and Rookie, Slugger now carries a legacy of community choice and support.
The Journey of Slugger: From Puppy to Service Dog
Slugger’s journey with the Pirates is more than just about being a cute mascot. In collaboration with Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Slugger will undergo rigorous training to become a service dog. This essential training will prepare Slugger to assist individuals with disabilities, providing life-saving support.
Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is renowned for its compassionate and thorough training program. By teaming up with the Pirates, they bring an incredible opportunity for fans to witness the transformative power of service dogs firsthand. Every training session and public appearance will showcase the dedication and hard work that goes into preparing these heroic animals for their future roles.
Slugger’s Role at Pirates Games and Beyond
Throughout training, Slugger will be a familiar face at Pirates games and community events. Fans can look forward to heartwarming moments as Slugger interacts with players, attends games, and participates in community activities. These appearances give Slugger the socialization needed to become a successful service dog.
Last year’s team dog, Bucco, made a significant impact by being paired with a local veteran in September 2023. This marked the first successful integration of a Pirates pup into the community. Bucco’s story is a powerful testament to the mission of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs and the positive influence of these partnerships.
How You Can Get Involved
As a Pirates fan or Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs supporter, your involvement can make a significant impact. Here are a few ways you can support this initiative:
Attend Games and Events: Show your support by attending games and community events where Slugger will be present. Your presence and enthusiasm help raise awareness and celebrate the journey of becoming a service dog.
Share the Story: Spread the word about Slugger and the collaboration between Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs and the Pittsburgh Pirates. Share this article, post on social media, and tell your friends and family about the incredible work being done.
Donate: Consider donating to Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs. Your contribution helps fund the training and care of service dogs like Slugger, ensuring they can continue providing life-changing assistance to veterans, first responders, and civilians with disabilities.
The story of Slugger, the Pirates’ new team dog, is just beginning. With the support of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs and the enthusiastic backing of Pirates fans, Slugger’s journey promises to be filled with hope, love, and incredible achievements.
Join us in celebrating this remarkable collaboration and Slugger’s bright future ahead. Stay tuned to our social media channels and the Pirates’ official page for more updates on Slugger and how you can get involved.
Mrs. Borden’s expertise and accomplishments are acknowledged by numerous national awards from various industries and agencies including the 2018 Corporate Pet Industry Woman of the Year and multiple awards for her organization’s work in mental health and suicide prevention.
She is frequently requested as a Keynote Speaker, and as an Industry Consultant to teach service dog laws to judicial systems, attorneys, and businesses, and to assist in service dog bills in multiple states that were passed into law. In 2020, she started an Institute for Higher Learning and the Borden Veterinary Hospital. Additionally, she has written and teaches college-accredited/VA-approved apprenticeship courses on dog training and service dog training.
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