The Chester McKay Bulletin

For veterans returning from active duty, the transition back to civilian life can be a challenging process. One of the ways that some veterans cope with this transition is through the use of service dogs, therapy dogs, and companion dogs . Each type of dog plays a different role in supporting veterans, and it's important to understand the differences between them.  Service dogs are specifically trained to assist individuals with disabilities, including veterans who may have physical or mental health conditions. These dogs are trained to perform specific tasks, such as opening doors, picking up dropped items, and alerting their owners to potential hazards. For veterans, service dogs can provide a sense of independence and help with mobility and navigation. In order to be considered a service dog, a dog must be trained to perform specific tasks related to their owner's disability. They must also have appropriate public access training, which includes being well-behaved in public