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PUTNAM — The Fourth Annual NEADS Dog Walk to support “Canines for Combat Veterans” will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. Sept. 8 at the Putnam Farmers’ Market on Kennedy Drive .
Major sponsors to date are Brooklyn Cares, The Citizens National Bank, Linemaster Switch, Putnam Bank, Quinebaug Valley Veterinary Hospital and BOW WOW Biscuit Bakery at Victoria Station Café.
NEADS (National Education for Assistance Dog Services in Princeton, Mass., 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. 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. 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. Having a canine companion instills a sense of independence and confidence and plays a profound role in the lives of veterans and their families. Service dogs also are a cost effective alternative in addition to physical and psychological therapy.
The Putnam Lions also expect to have pet education, animal rescue and other related groups. Over the past three years the dog walk has raised more than $10,000 for NEADS. There is no cost to participate in the dog walk; however, donations and pledges are gratefully appreciated. Advance sign-up and pledge sheets can be picked up at WINY Radio. Additionally, downloads are available at www.winyradio.com or www.putnamct.us. For more info, call 928-4960.