SB198

Dear Chairperson and Members of the Committee, My name is Kathleen Metz, and I am the Director of Assistance Canine Training Services (ACTS), a New Hampshire-based nonprofit dedicated to training and placing service dogs to assist individuals with a range of physical and developmental disabilities. I write to you today in strong support of SB198, which proposes to designate the third week of September as Service Dog Week in the State of New Hampshire. At ACTS, we see firsthand the life-changing impact that service dogs have on the individuals they serve. These highly trained dogs provide far more than physical assistance—they offer companionship, increase confidence, and restore a sense of independence and dignity to those living with disabilities. Whether it's retrieving dropped items, opening doors, alerting to medical needs, or providing support in social settings, the role of a service dog is both profound and deeply personal. Behind each service dog is a network of dedicated trainers, volunteers, puppy raisers, and professionals who spend years preparing these incredible animals for their important work. These individuals, often working quietly and without recognition, deserve our deepest gratitude and respect. By proclaiming a Service Dog Week each September, New Hampshire has the opportunity to formally recognize and honor not only the incredible contributions of these animals, but also the communities and individuals who make this work possible. This designation will raise awareness about the rights and responsibilities surrounding service dog use, encourage inclusivity and understanding, and celebrate the unique bond between service dogs and the people they assist. I respectfully urge the Committee to support SB198 and help shine a light on the extraordinary work being done every day by service dogs and those who partner with them. Thank you for your time, your service, and your consideration of this important measure. Sincerely, Kathleen Metz Director Assistance Canine Training Services (ACTS)

This is one way to bring attention to the importance of service dogs that play such a vital part in the lives of those who depend on them.

Finally, a bipartisan bill that does something positive in our state. Support this bill.

I've been following the actions of the NH House and Senate for weeks now and would like to thank the sponsors for a bipartisan bill I can finally use to explain the process to a child without frightening them. Please vote YES on this bill and recognize the positive effect service dogs have on all of us. Thank you.

This bill when enacted will provide a boost to awareness in the public eye. Events and publications can help call out the value and contribution of a true service dog trained for a specific purpose dependent on the needs of the individual. Having dates of recognition on the state calendar would help to foster continuing education on what a service dog is and isn't as there remain many misconceptions that minimize the contribution of a properly trained and acclimated service dog. It's so much more than a vest. The bill will provide a platform for further education and awareness per enacted state law on accommodation and consideration that must be made for recognized and trained service dogs in public spaces like restaurants, transportation and retail stores.