After a decade of unwavering service on the battlefield, a remarkable and loyal dog, named Max, finally received the heartwarming homecoming he had earned. Max, a genuine hero in every sense, stood shoulder-to-shoulder with soldiers in challenging conditions for a decade. He displayed unwavering courage and determination, creating an unbreakable bond with the troops he protected.
Max’s journey took an unexpected turn when he sustained an injury in the line of duty, resulting in a permanent disability that necessitated a wheelchair for mobility. Despite the obstacles he faced, Max’s spirit remained unshaken, and his loyalty to his comrades remained steadfast.
The most heartwarming aspect of Max’s story was when, after his long and dedicated service, he was given the opportunity to return to his homeland. The news of his impending return touched the hearts of millions worldwide. As Max made his journey home, people from every corner of the globe followed his progress and expressed their support for this courageous canine hero.
The moment Max arrived home, it was an emotional and jubilant reunion. Seeing the once battle-hardened dog, now using a wheelchair, welcomed by his loving family and friends, was a testament to the indomitable spirit of these extraordinary animals.
Max’s story is a genuine inspiration, reminding us of the sacrifices and unwavering loyalty of service animals. His transition from the battlefield to the comfort of his homeland moved millions of viewers to tears and admiration. Max’s legacy stands as a powerful symbol of the enduring connection between humans and their devoted
Guide Dogs of America Needs Volunteer ‘Puppy Raisers’
Working with wonderful woofers, the sort of furry joy-bringers that make a difference in people’s lives?
Pitching in with a pack of incredible pups can make a lasting impression on a person’s mind, outlook, and, for sure, their spirit, too.
And that chance to lend a hand, your time, some empathy and understanding, and a whole lot of love is coming up, on Dec. 11, thanks to a “puppy raiser” training session with Guide Dogs of America.
This is a virtual happening, via Zoom, and it will be the final online information event before in-person gatherings return to the Sylmar campus in 2022.
Guide Dogs of American pairs trained pups with “… individuals who are blind/visually impaired and service dogs for veterans and children with autism,” with dogs also being placed in “hospitals, schools, and courtrooms.”
“Our highly skilled canines become trusted companions that increase people’s confidence, mobility, and independence. All programs and services, including transportation, personalized training, room/board, and postgraduate support, are provided at no cost to the recipient,” states the organization on its site.
And helping the organization achieve its mission?
Puppy raisers, those dedicated volunteers who are among some of the first people a young, in-training dog gets to know, trust, and adore.
If you choose to pursue volunteering for this life-changing role, there’ll be a few initial considerations, as well as matters you’ll want to mull.
One consideration? Where you reside. You and the puppy in your care will need to call upon the Sylmar campus on occasion, and attendance at both monthly puppy group meetings and “puppy kindergarten classes” is required.
The Dec. 11 information session will address what you can expect from meetings and classes, as well as what at-home life will be like with the future guide dog you’re helping to raise.
Questions covered include the breeds and types of puppies that volunteers raise, what can be expected in terms of puppy proofing and such, what out-of-pocket expenses might look like, and how long the puppy will live in your home.
And, yes: “(W)hat happens when the dogs ‘go off to college’ to begin formal training” is also a central topic of the session, as well as how dogs are paired with their forever people once they’ve graduated.
The word straight from Sylmar? “We ALWAYS need puppy raisers,” says Stephanie Colman, the coordinator of the puppy program.
So even if you can’t join the December Zoom, you can plan to attend an in-person information session on the Guide Dogs of America campus, in early 2022.
Could this be your new year’s resolution?
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