By Linda Lemmon

Town Crier Editor

PUTNAM --- While the weather was a bit inhospitable for dog and man, the sixth annual Dog Walk to  support canines for veterans program raised $1,800.

The Putnam Lions Club sponsored the event at the Riverview Marketplace Sept. 6. Lion Stu Neal said the heat and humidity may have kept some from attending the event. He added that $1,800 is collected so far, but more donations are expected to come in and donations are still welcome.

Donation checks may be made out to NEADS or the Putnam Lions (with NEADS in memo) and mailed to Putnam Lions Foundation, PO Box 535, Putnam, CT 06260.

Neal said, "We would like to thank everyone who attended the event or contributed in any way. Despite the weather, we consider the day a great success."

Proceed go to the National Education for Assistance Dog Services (NEADS) Canines for Combat Veterans program. Thus far, over the years, the walk has raised more than $15,000 for NEADS. The group provides service dogs for disabled veterans at little or no cost. In October of 2006, NEADS graduated its first class of "Canines for Combat Veterans" to aid in the rehabilitation of injured soldiers. More than 70 dogs have been trained to serve the needs of veterans ranging from wheelchair and prosthetic aid to hearing and balance conditions caused by roadside bombs. Companion dogs are trained to aid in treatment of post traumatic stress disorder.