Hero Dog Day
Effective Date: Saturday, October 6th, 2012
WHEREAS, in addition to our brave first responders, those who risk their own lives to secure the safety of others deserve our appreciation; and
WHEREAS, dogs play an important role in the daily operations of first responders, the military, law enforcement, and search and rescue teams, as well as the lives of private citizens needing assistance because of a medical disability. Brave and loyal, these exemplary canine heroes help humans through dangerous situations with remarkable obedience and expertise; and
WHEREAS, dogs may be trained to help with narcotics and drug detection, search and rescue missions, wilderness tracking, evidence gathering, and responses to disasters such as earthquakes and avalanches. In the rugged Alaskan wilderness, search and rescue dogs serve a highly important role; and
WHEREAS, Alaskans affected by a disability often rely on the assistance of highly-trained service dogs, who may act as their owner’s eyes, hands, or ears, and people dealing with depression and disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder gain emotional support and guidance through everyday situations from their canine companions. In addition, hospital therapy dogs bring love, comfort, and healing to those working through recovery; and
WHEREAS, dogs, who have famously been called “man’s best friend,” occupy a place of significance in Alaska. From Balto the Siberian Husky, who led a dog-team delivering life-saving medicine to Nome in the early twentieth century, to the numerous pets who offer unconditional love and support to their owners, our canine friends enrich our lives in countless ways.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sean Parnell, Governor of the State of Alaska, do hereby proclaim October 6, 2012 as:
Hero Dog Day
in Alaska, and encourage Alaskans to recognize the important role dogs play in our state and nation as support for law enforcement, the military, first responders, search and rescue, and Alaskans dealing with disabilities and medical conditions.
Dated: September 10, 2012
