Donate to New Horizons Service Dogs, Inc.

I was introduced to my new best friend in December 2010 and things would never be the same again. Kobe, a yellow Labrador retriever, immediately began to simplify my life the first time I dropped my phone. Gravity is not my friend, as evidenced by the number of things that it has pulled from my hand and thrust to the floor. Kobe's keen senses inform him when something has fallen, and he eagerly picks it up and brings it to me. Of course, if the item is edible, then all bets are off.

Kobe and I donated over 500 volunteer hours at the Tampa VA Hospital, mainly in the Community Living Center, bringing smiles of joy to patients, visitors and staff alike. I was always willing to let people pet Kobe, causing him to roll onto his back, an invitation to pet his welcoming chest. I heard such comments as, "Thank you. You've made my day," and, "How did you know that I needed you today?" I wrote several articles for PN Magazine, a publication of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, about our adventures as volunteers. As I often said, Kobe is the volunteer. I just drive him there.

NHSDI breeds, raises and trains service dogs, meeting strict standards to ensure that they can provide adequate help to their disabled handlers. Although the added independence and confidence that these four-legged angels offer the handicapped is priceless, it costs between $20-25,000 to prepare each dog for service. 

The photo I chose to attach to this fundraiser is one I took as Kobe and I traveled down the street with the evening sun to our backs. Together, we cast a long shadow.