In a compelling turn of events, a veteran from Oklahoma is speaking out against a non-profit organization, Honoring America Warriors (HAW), as they attempt to remove service dogs from two veterans.
This incident has sparked outrage among veterans, highlighting the importance of service dogs in providing emotional and physical support.
Emotional Testimonies from Veterans
Veteran Allysia Scherer expressed her deep emotional distress after witnessing the treatment of her fellow veterans.
“Whenever I watched the segment on Friday, I just broke down in tears,” she shared. Scherer, who is nearing graduation from the HAW program with her service dog, Cinderella, believes the organization should reconsider their stance.
The tension escalated when a video surfaced showing Scotty Deatherage, the director of HAW, confronting a veteran struggling to detach his service dog’s vest.
The emotional exchange raised concerns about the treatment of veterans within the program, leading families to feel threatened by the possibility of losing their essential companions.
The Program’s Demands
According to Deatherage, veterans must attend three classes a week for two years to graduate with their service dogs.
Failure to comply could result in losing their dogs, which adds pressure on veterans who may have health challenges or hospital visits.
Scherer explained the vital role Cinderella plays in her life, stating, “I felt like I was drowning and then when she came into my life, it was like a glimmer of hope.” The pressure to maintain attendance is exacerbated by health issues, leaving veterans in a precarious situation regarding their beloved service animals.
Calls for Change
Veterans have voiced their concerns, pleading with the board to allow them to keep their dogs, Kimber and Feyre. Scherer noted the emotional toll of the situation, stating, “I saw the abuse. I felt like I couldn’t stay silent.
Even though I’m scared to lose my lifeline.” Her remarks highlight the fear that many veterans feel regarding the potential loss of their emotional support systems.
Adding to the controversy, Scherer recounted a distressing incident in which Cinderella was taken by the non-profit to have puppies surgically removed without any prior discussion or apology. This lack of communication further fuels the call for a more compassionate approach to handling service dogs within the organization.
General Rita Aragon’s Response
General Rita Aragon, a board member at HAW, has acknowledged the outcry and stated that the board has decided to allow the veterans to keep their service dogs. However, the stipulation that they must not attend further training sessions has raised concerns about the ongoing support and training veterans will need.
Aragon also emphasized the success of the program, which has trained around 200 service dogs, and expressed a commitment to investigating the situation further. Scherer made a heartfelt appeal to the board, urging them to reflect on the organization’s mission and the veterans it serves.
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Conclusion
The situation surrounding HAW and the service dogs has sparked a much-needed conversation about the treatment of veterans and the significance of their service animals.
As veterans advocate for their rights and the well-being of their beloved dogs, it becomes clear that compassion and understanding must guide these organizations’ actions.
FAQs
1. What is Honoring America Warriors (HAW)?
HAW is a non-profit organization dedicated to training service dogs for veterans, aiming to provide support and companionship for those in need.
2. Why are some veterans asking HAW not to remove their service dogs?
Veterans rely on their service dogs for emotional and physical support. The threat of removal creates anxiety and fear among those who have developed strong bonds with their animals.
3. What happens if a veteran misses training sessions with their service dog?
According to HAW, veterans must attend a certain number of classes; otherwise, they risk losing their service dogs, as the organization retains ownership of the dogs.
4. How does a service dog assist veterans?
Service dogs provide various forms of assistance, including emotional support, helping with mobility, and performing specific tasks tailored to the veteran’s needs.
5. What are the training requirements for service dogs through HAW?
Veterans are required to attend three training classes a week for two years to successfully graduate with their service dogs.
6. What should veterans do if they feel mistreated by a service dog program?
Veterans are encouraged to voice their concerns directly to the organization or seek support from other veterans, advocacy groups, or legal counsel if necessary.
