Air Force veteran’s service dog has become her ‘battle buddy and working partner.’
National Service Dog Day iss Sept. 20 and is designed to honor the role of service dogs in the lives of people with disabilities and America's veterans. The day was designated by Congress in 2023 and is part of September’s National Service Dog Month.
We asked you to share how your service dog has impacted your life, so we can share your story with others. We will continue to publish those stories throughout September.
Submit your own story and photo on www.legiontown.org in the “Why I Love My Service Animal” section.
Our latest in the series is from U.S. Air Force veteran Sharon Hunter and her dog Perch, who serves as Hunter’s “battle buddy and working partner.”
Thank you for asking me to share my experience with my new service dog. Looking back on the time before she arrived compared to where I am today, the impact on my life has been profound. (STORY CONTINUES BELOW)
Even with cochlear implants, the reality is that I’m still deaf. The implants help, but they don't cure anything. In a loud, crowded room, I still miss a lot. And during the times my processors have to come off – like when I’m sleeping, showering, or just giving my ears a much-needed break – I don't hear a thing.
Before Perch came along, those quiet times came with a lot of stress. I was constantly worried about missing something important, and I had to rely heavily on my husband and the people around me just to feel safe.
Perch changed all of that. She’s trained to be my ears, alerting me when the phone rings, when an alarm goes off or when someone calls my name. Because I know she’s paying attention, I can finally let my guard down and just breathe. She has given me my confidence and independence back, whether I'm at home or out in public.
But Perch is more than a companion. She is my battle buddy and my working partner, and our relationship is built entirely on trust. Having her by my side also opens the door to teach people that hearing loss is often an invisible disability—even for those of us with high-tech implants.
Having Perch hasn't just brought me peace of mind; she has completely changed my daily life. I am beyond grateful to have her standing watch with me.
- Veterans Healthcare