Liberty Dogs asks Sparks to adopt workplace policy and host info sessions to support veteran service-dog program

Liberty Dogs, presented by CEO Andre Berry, outlined a veteran-focused service-dog program and asked Sparks City Council to support local volunteer roles and adopt a voluntary workplace policy to allow city employees to participate as puppy raisers or hosts.

Berry described Liberty Dogs as a "27 acre campus in South Reno" and said the program is intended to match veterans with trained service dogs at no cost to the veteran. "This is the first U.S. veteran service dog organization to combine service dog with wellness and education," he said, noting the program includes clinical social workers, chaplains, a warrior-wellness class, and plans for research and national conferences.

Berry asked the council to direct staff to draft a service-dog and training policy and to host an information session for city employees using the Washoe County framework as a model. Councilor Diane Vanderwell told the presenter she would place a "dogs in the workplace" policy on the Aug. 10 agenda so the council could consider adoption. Council members and other attendees praised the program and several said they had toured the facility.

Liberty Dogs also requested Sparks27 help recruiting puppy raisers, guardian homes and volunteer support; Berry said Liberty Dogs covers canine expenses and that local placements were scheduled in August. Council thanked Liberty Dogs for the presentation and agreed to follow up on the policy request.