Apollo is a service dog from the AKC CH Devanley's Grand Canyon "Rocky" x Devanley's Sweet Peppermint Patty "Patty" litter from October 2017.
Lovingly Submitted by Sandra Bohle - My special boy Apollo is both service dog and Ambassador for Angels for Veterans. He is a handsome rich dark chocolate English Lab which I acquired from Devanley Labradors when he was just four months old. He recently turned two years old.He functions in two distinct capacities. As Ambassador Apollo does socialize with the public. He provides opportunities for questions about our program and service dogs. He also provides hugs to veterans who want to share their stories with me. He brings a smile and joy to into that person’s day who was feeling empty and lonesome.Apollo’s role would be to accompany me to engage an audience when I am keynote speaker at events, veteran organizations, private clubs, business gatherings.
Apollo’s job is to provide physical assistance to me as well. Apollo can retrieve items for me when I am unable to bend down. It’s a comfort knowing that I can count on Apollo to help. He is there beside me when I have intense pain and I feel anxious or overwhelmed. He seems to know when I need a hug. He always knows when I am not well. He stays close to me in bed on bad days. He either will lay up close against my leg or across my legs. He is always exceptionally gentle and assuring. That’s just the sweetest trait ever. I have to say that Apollo is so instinctive that I never need to ask for his support, love or his hugs. It almost as though someone whispers in his ear when I I need him the most.
He’s not shy when it comes to entertaining me with his silliness. He likes to parade around with a toy or household object in his mouth. His whole body engages in his wiggle routine. He’s laughing the whole time. He struts and wiggles showing off and making me laugh with him. But it is in our quieter moments that we connect on the deepest level of understanding and shared love and appreciation for one another. I am the Founder and Director of Angels for Veterans. We are a charitable 501c3 nonprofit organization. Our mission includes providing service dogs to veterans whose lives have been altered, interrupted, and forever changed by physical and also psychological disabilities. Our service dogs are making profound changes in the lives of so many honorable veterans.
I love hearing feedback from veterans and their families how their lives have changed for the better. Having that special new buddy beside them 24/7 is a game changer. One veteran described his dog as a miracle. Several veterans have had some of their medications reduced. Others have a recaptured joy and ability to socialize and participate in family functions once again. They state that having their dog beside them gives them the ability and calm to go into public places. Veterans suffering from PTSD often isolate from crowds and social activities. Having a dog that can lead you to an exit and also address your anxiety is a true gift.
These kind beautiful dogs are always sensing and reading their owners. Although they may appear to be doing nothing, all of their senses and training are activated when they are working. This is why we discourage the public from approaching and petting a working dog - they honestly are doing a very important job. They might even be monitored sugar levels or sensing the onset of a seizure. Not to mention the sights sounds and smells of the immediate environment. Pretty incredible to say the least.
To learn more about Angels for Veterans, please see http://www.angelsforveterans.org/ .
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