A Thank You to Companion Dogs — and the People Who Make Their Work Possible
This World Mental Health Day, we’re celebrating the remarkable relationship between people and dogs—and the volunteers who make those relationships possible.
There are many ways we care for our mental health. Sometimes support comes from a friend, a family member or a professional. And sometimes it arrives on four paws.
For children, veterans and families living with disabilities, a trained service dog can provide far more than companionship. Dogs can be trained to recognize behavioral and emotional changes, interrupt behaviors and perform specific tasks that help their partners navigate everyday life with greater independence.
That’s why, on World Mental Health Day, NatrixOne would like to say thank you to the companion and service dogs doing this extraordinary work—and to the people behind them.
The Humans Behind the Dogs
Organizations such as 4 Paws for Ability in Xenia, Ohio, don’t accomplish this work alone. Since 1998, 4 Paws has created more than 2,000 service-dog teams and today places more than 120 service dogs annually with children and veterans with disabilities.
Every one of those dogs requires people willing to give their time.
Volunteers help exercise and socialize puppies, care for dogs at the facility and tackle everyday projects. Others welcome a service dog in training into their homes and help that dog learn the skills and confidence it will eventually bring to another person’s life.
Right Now, They Need More Volunteers
4 Paws for Ability says its greatest volunteer need is primary foster homes for service dogs in training. Foster volunteers must live within three hours of its Xenia facility, be at least 18 and complete the organization’s training and orientation requirements. 4 Paws for Ability –
Not ready to foster? That’s okay. Onsite and group volunteer opportunities are available as well.
Interested in helping?
Volunteer with 4 Paws for Ability
A Small Thank You
At NatrixOne, we spend a lot of time thinking about mobility and helping people stay active. But wellness is bigger than movement alone.
On World Mental Health Day, we’re grateful for the dogs who provide companionship, confidence and support—and for every volunteer who gives them the opportunity to do it.
To the dogs, trainers, foster families and volunteers: thank you.