- Details
- Category: Past Issues
PUTNAM --- The Putnam Lions Club will present its second annual Dog Walk in support of NEADS “Canines for Combat Veterans” from 1 to 4 p.m. Sept. 25 at Rotary Park.
NEADS (National Education for Assistance Dog Services) centered in Princeton, Mass., provides service dogs for disabled veterans at no cost. In October of 2006, NEADS graduated its first class of “Canines for Combat Veterans” to aid in the rehabilitation of injured soldiers. The dogs are trained to serve the needs of veterans ranging from wheelchair and prosthetic aid to hearing and balance conditions caused by roadside bombs and concussive (TBI) injuries. Additionally, many of the hearing dogs are rescued from shelters, some are fostered, and others are trained by inmates in the Prison PUP Partnership, giving both inmates and canines a new lease on life. The dogs play a profound role in the lives of the veterans and their families . Having one of these canine companions instills a sense of independence and confidence in our wounded veterans. Service dogs also are a cost effective alternative to physical and psychological therapy.
There is no cost to participate in the dog walk, however, donations and pledges will be greatly appreciated. Advance sign-up and pledge sheets can be picked up at WINY Radio, King Cadillac GMC, and the Putnam Animal Hospital. Downloads are available at www.winyradio.com . ast year’s walk collected over $4200 for the program and is considered a huge success for its inaugural outing. The club is hoping to exceed that total. For more information about this event contact Stu Neal at (860) 928-4960.
The Putnam Lions also expect to have a number of pet education, animal welfare, and other related groups in attendance and will be sharing the day’s activities with the Putnam Family Day.