Saturday's Star-Tribune featured an op-ed from Senator Al Franken on his first bill. His heartfelt article on providing funds to train service dogs for our Vets is ambitious and influenced by a chance meeting with Iraq War Vet Luis Carlos Montalvan."This January, I met Luis Carlos Montalvan and his service dog named Tuesday, a beautiful golden retriever, at an inaugural event in Washington."
Having online correspondence with Luis, one can easily recognize the importance Tuesday brings to his life. Not just for the assistance she provides, but also the companionship.
The hardships that our Vets go through can be agonizing, whether it be a physical injury or those that suffer PTSD, and in some cases both. Franken goes on to describe that the high costs of training and placing these dogs can cost over $20,000. Providing funding for this is crucial at a time when we see suicides rise at an alarming rate for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans. Being one who has rescued numerous dogs, I can attest to the bond that is between a dog and their owner. For service dogs however, the bond is stronger. Providing assistance to the
ir owners allows a wounded Vet to rebuild their life with their injury and new friend. As Franken points out " they can also detect changes in a person's breathing, perspiration or scent to anticipate and ward off an impending panic attack with some well-timed nuzzling. They are trained to let their masters know when it's time to take their medication and to wake them from terrifying nightmares. " Franken is likely going to face some challenge on this simply because it will be his bill. With Veterans and the public's support, this legislation should be a no brainer. Let Senator Franken know we want the best for our Vets and we support this, 202-224-5641.
No comments:
Post a Comment