Press Room

Sen. Newell and Rep. Rice Honor Patriotic Pooches

Monday, April 12 2010

Legislators Head to Local Non-Profit to Visit Veterans and Their Service Dogs

Senator Newell speaking with a veteran

DENVER—Senator Linda Newell (D-Littleton) and Representative Joe Rice (D-Littleton), a Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve,  toured the Freedom Service Dogs Facility in Englewood this Sunday to talk with former service members and their canine friends.  The State Senate and House will sponsor a joint resolution this session to honor the Freedom Service Dogs and their owners.

Founded in 1987, Freedom Service Dogs (FSD) is a Colorado-based nonprofit that specially trains dogs rescued from shelters and pairs them with disabled military service members and other individuals who are physically disabled. Since the organization's founding, FSD's custom-trained service dogs have assisted more than 150 individuals in their day-to-day activities and have provided their human companions with a greater degree of independence.

“It’s amazing to see such wonderful work being done in our communities”, stated Senator Newell. “These dogs and their trainers are truly giving back to our veterans who in turn have given their country so much.”

Rep. Rice said, “Taking care of our disabled veterans is part of a sacred trust that exists between our nation and its armed forces. Groups like Freedom Service Dogs deserve all the support we can give them.”

Both lawmakers met with veterans and answered questions about the resolution.