Westchester County veterans are joining together to help raise money to supply a service dog to a combat veteran with a permanent disability. All funds raised will go to “Canines for Combat Veterans,” a program run by NEADS (Dogs for Deaf and Disabled Americans). The non-profit organization trains and provides rescued dogs and donated puppies to people who are physically disabled, helping them lead more independent lives and enjoy more social interaction.

Any combat veteran whose service injury has resulted in a permanent physical disability is eligible to apply. NEADS provides fully-trained assistance dogs at no cost to qualified veterans. Travel and accommodations for the two-week training camp in Princeton, Massachusetts are also provided at no cost, thanks to the generous donations of thousands of individuals, private foundations and small businesses.

The dogs can help veterans in many ways:

• Help a person stay balanced on Prosthetics
• Help with tasks for a person using a wheelchair
• Retrieve and carry objects
• Press buttons and open doors
• Turn lights on and off
• Assist on ramps
• Respond to sounds for those who are deaf or hard of hearing
• Provide social interaction

For more information, visit NEADS online and click on “Canines for Combat Veterans.” Find the service dog or hearing dog icon, click on “APPLY NOW” to find an application or contact NEADS directly at (978) 422-9064 ext. 22 for an assistance dog application. The Veterans Service Agency may also be able to answer your questions. Call (914) 995-2145.

To make a donation, please make all checks payable to the:
 
Westchester County Veterans Service Committee
(And in the memo section include NEADS Dogs for Deaf and Disabled Americans)

And mail to:

Mr. Lucian Caldara
Westchester County Veterans Service Committee Treasurer
5 Downey Rd.
Ossining, NY 10562