In a recent meeting, the Pennington County Board of Commissioners officially proclaimed September as National Service Dog Month, highlighting the vital role service dogs play in enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities. Walter McDuff, the county's Risk Manager, shared his personal experiences with service dogs, emphasizing their transformative impact on mental health and daily functioning.

McDuff introduced his service dog, Baumer, and recounted his journey with another service dog, Bruno, who had to retire due to health issues. He described how these dogs have helped him manage stress and anxiety stemming from his military service, allowing him to engage more fully in everyday activities, such as shopping with his wife.

The proclamation aims to raise awareness about the benefits of service dogs and the legal protections afforded to them. It notes that while approximately 64 million Americans live with disabilities, only about 16,000 service dogs from accredited programs are available, underscoring the growing need for these essential companions.

Commissioner Drews moved to approve the proclamation, with fellow Commissioner Knecht seconding the motion. The board expressed gratitude for McDuff's insights, recognizing the importance of service dogs in fostering independence and improving quality of life for many individuals in the community.