August 26th is International Dog Day where we celebrate the joy that dogs bring into our lives! The SMVF TA Center would like to take this opportunity to recognize the profound impact service animals have on the lives of Veterans and military families. These valiant canines are more than pets; they are trained professionals who perform essential tasks for those who have served our country. From aiding those with physical disabilities to providing support for Veterans experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and general anxiety, service animals are a testament to resilience and companionship. They can help restore independence and enhance the quality of life for our heroes at home.
To honor the service animals who walk paw-in-hand among us, we spoke with Yvonne Acosta, a Veteran and member of the Arizona Governor’s Challenge team, who has firsthand experience of this companionship with her faithful friend and service dog, Kodi. She discusses their service training, provides resources (shared in the “Resource Center” below), notes some common misconceptions about service animals, and reflects on her extraordinary bond with Kodi and his impact on her life.
Interview with Yvonne
Kodi
Can you share a little bit about how you and Kodi were matched, and what special trainings he underwent to assist you?
Kodi is a rescue from Payson, Arizona, who was unfortunately removed from a bad home where he was being abused. He was rescued by a non-profit, which moved him into a foster home, where his temperament and character were observed. From there, Kodi and I were introduced to one another. Prior to our introduction, the trainer expressed that Kodi was very timid and shy and often peed when scared. But when Kodi was brought into the room, he walked past everyone in the room, including a child who was with us, and went directly to me; he felt safe, and so did I. After that, Kodi and I went through a year of training. He learned the basics of walking on a leash, sitting and staying, going on outings, learning manners such as not eating food off the floor, followed by tasks such as clearing a room or creating space on command, which was all wrapped up by the final certification test proctored by the Police Department. As a team, we spent one hour a week with an individual trainer and worked one-on-one daily to practice the homework we were given.
Could you discuss the resources that were available to you when you were seeking a service animal and any advice you have for others in a similar process?
Truthfully, I didn’t know much about service animals, and I never considered that option for myself. As you can imagine, Veterans can be stubborn, so was I, and I didn’t want to admit I could use some support. Then, I had a battle buddy who not only handed me a mirror to self-reflect but also handed me resources to guide me as well. From one battle buddy to another, we all have demons, but you don’t have to face them alone. If you are considering a service animal, go for it because what little I will share with you is just the tip of the iceberg for what they can accomplish. Earlier, I shared with you how timid and shy Kodi was when we first met. Today, Kodi Bear is a confident and happy pup. Healing goes both ways and it’s a funny thing how we heal ourselves faster when we’re helping others do the same.
Are there any common misconceptions about service animals that you’d like to address based on your experiences?
Yes, not every dog with a “service dog” vest is a service dog. Observe the handler and the animal; you will know from there. But also remember, a dog is a dog, and they can have “off” days as well. It’s how the team shakes it off and bounces back after a situation.
How do public interactions typically go with your service animal, and what etiquette do you wish more people were aware of?
Public outings go smoothly for us for the most part, but you never know the situations you will encounter when you go out. That is why it is important to continue working on your bond and continuing your training daily. The etiquette I wish more folks were aware of would be to not whistle or call the service animal your way. I know they are amazing creatures, but when they are out, they are actively working. Imagine if you were hyper-focused on a task, and while trying to complete it, one of your co-workers was constantly calling your name or making noises to get you to look their way. That would be frustrating and unfair to you—the same goes for the service dog.
In what ways has your service animal made a significant impact on your daily life and overall well-being?
Kodi Bear has made a major impact on me along my journey in countless ways. He has traveled the country with me, helping to ease my anxiety each step of the way. He has helped remind me that I could attend an event where I didn’t know anyone because he would be there at my side. He has sat with me in my darkness as I have battled my demons, and he has helped bring me back to reality when I am lost in a night terror. I never knew a bond could grow so deeply with a spirit where no words are exchanged. But the bond I have with Kodi defies that he has my back as I have his, and together, we heal as a team.
Conclusion
This month, we salute these remarkable service animals and the Veterans they assist, acknowledging their unbreakable bond and the peace they bring to each other’s lives.
As we strive to spread awareness this month, please find additional resources and information in our “Resource Center” below.
SAMHSA’s SMVF TA Center is honored to provide TA to states, territories, and communities seeking to strengthen their behavioral health support for those who have served in the armed forces. For TA inquiries, please email smvftacenter@prainc.com. For more information about the SMVF TA Center and the resources offered, please visit SAMHSA’s SMVF TA Center’s web pages