Have you ever seen a cute dog wearing a vest out in public and wanted to run over to pet it? As a natural dog lover, who barked before she talked, this is always an internal struggle for me. While they are cute - often fluffy - dogs who sport vests, these are a special breed known as working service dogs. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, “service animals are working animals, not pets. The work or task a dog has been trained to provide must be directly related to the person’s disability”¹. 

Service dogs may assist an individual who has mobility impairment through tasks which include, but are not limited to, providing balance and stability, retrieving items and pulling wheelchairs. I have always believed in the saying “a dog is a man’s and/ or woman’s best friend” but a service dog brings that to a whole new level. They guide, listen, balance, lead and love. They provide friendship, independence, freedom, and peace of mind. They live to serve their handler to the fullest extent of their capability. A service dog is truly a best friend.

In honor of National Service Dog Month, I would like to introduce you to Kimmie and her service dog, Hershey. Kimmie has a complex medical history that prevents her from completing daily tasks independently. At eight years old her parents decided that a service dog was the best option to assist Kimmie on a constant and daily basis. Hershey came to Kimmie and her family at about 10-weeks-old. 

After 6 months of getting to know one another, Kimmie and Hershey have become inseparable. Hershey accompanies Kimmie just about everywhere. Hershey attends school, shopping trips, field trips and even vacations as a member of the family. Just recently Hershey went on her first cruise. At first, the family wasn’t sure Hershey would be allowed on the cruise ship, but the captain made sure Hershey accompanied Kimmie wherever and whenever she was needed.

When I asked Kimmie’s mother about specific times Hershey has helped Kimmie and their family, she said there are too many to even begin to list. One instance did stick out though - Kimmie was having trouble breathing during the middle of the night and Hershey alerted Kimmie’s parents by barking loudly in their faces! Hershey helps Kimmie navigate daily tasks such as helping with her walker or wheelchair and helps her avoid stairs. Hershey might have started out at as just a service dog, but over time she’s become a large part and active member of the family. They couldn’t imagine life without her. Hershey is a normal and playful dog with her vest off, but once it is on, she knows it is time to work and help Kimmie with whatever she needs.

Kimmie’s mom said it best, “she’s the best decision that we ever made.” Hershey is more than a pet or just a service dog; she’s Kimmie’s best friend, playmate, and companion. 

Source: https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm