City Council proclaims September as National Service Dog Month

posted on 9/6/2024

Deputy Mayor Dennis Shanahan officially proclaimed September as National Service Dog Month during the City Council meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024. The proclamation was accepted by Brendan Madden, founder of the New Hampshire Coalition of Service and Support Dogs (NHCSSD).

"National Service Dog Month provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the incredible contributions of service dogs, honor the dedicated individuals who train and care for these remarkable animals, and celebrate the profound bond between service dogs and the individuals they serve," the deputy mayor said, reading from the proclamation.

The proclamation highlights the significant impact service dogs have on the lives of individuals with disabilities, noting that approximately 61 million adults in the United States live with a disability, representing 26% of the adult population. It also recognizes the estimated 500,000 service dogs in the country that assist individuals with various disabilities, including mobility impairments, visual and hearing impairments, autism, epilepsy, diabetes, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Madden founded NHCSSD after receiving his first service dog, Japhy, in 2005. The NHCSSD assists service dog owners and promotes awareness about the importance of service dogs in the community. The organization's efforts align with the goals of National Service Dog Month, which aims to educate the public about the vital support these animals provide.

The proclamation calls on all citizens of Dover to recognize the observance of National Service Dog Month throughout September.

For more information about the New Hampshire Coalition of Service and Support Dogs, visit https://servicedogsnh.org/.

The complete proclamation can be viewed here: https://www.dover.nh.gov/government/boards-and-commissions/city-council/proclamations-and-awards/.