A chance to meet Winston, Smoky Mountain Service Dog
Winston is an ambassador dog whose purpose is to spread the good news about the organization. (photo:Danyeal Daniels )
Winston won everyone’s heart with his skills and personality.
Brit, a retired lawyer who has volunteered with SMSD for eight years, informed the group of the group’s history as well as current projects.
SMSD was started in 2010 and was approved as a 501 (c)(3) organization in 2013. The group purchases, raises, trains, and matches service dogs to worthy veterans. It is accredited and approved by ADA and Assistance Dogs International. The main campus is at 110 Tooweka Circle, Loudon, Tennessee.
The mission as stated is: “To enchance the physical and psychological quality of life for veterans with disabilities by providing custom-trained, mobility-assistance service dogs at no cost to the veterans.” This includes veterinary bills and supplies. The government will pay benefits for supplies and other needs of certified dogs under the ADA law.
Brit explained the differences between a certificed/accredited service dog and an emotional-support animal.
Service dogs work with people who have severe disabilities and can join their partners on all types of travel, providing physical assistance and companionship.
Each dog is purchased or received through donations at age 8 weeks. SMSDO uses mostly labs, as this breed is best around children and in public. Puppies are raised by trained handlers for the first 10 months of life. The are sent to a fully equipped kennel once a week for training by professionals who use positive reinforcemen, which includes snacks and treats.
By their 11th month, each dog is living in a kennel full-time. Dogs can be sent for family visits on weekends. Outdoor activities and exercise are stressed.
Volunteers are always needed to help raise puppies, give dogs a walk, provide play time, or practice skills. There are only four paid employees at SMSD, with 95% of donations being spent on the dogs and their needs.
Veterans and their families who are interested in receiving a service dog need to apply. Trainers do everything they can to match the personality of the dog to the veteran. When both are ready, there is a ceremony known as “passing of the leash,” as the dog is handed over to become a life-long companion for the veteran and the family.
During the presentation, Winston was called on to perform many of his 40 cues. He happily picked up a phone and returned it, picked up a thin credit card, moved on the left and then on the right, took a sock off a foot, found a lost hat, helped Brit with clothing, carried a small bag, opened a door, and more.
He will respond to smells or smoke, as well as loud or unusual sounds or noises. He will react if he believes the veteran is in trouble.
Volunteers will help with socialization and exercise, or provide foster care for a dog in waiting. All donations are tax deductible.
For more information contact smokyoutainservicedogs.org or phone 865-408-3070.