Service animals and their human companions will soon be honored in Miami-Dade through a special event designed to raise awareness and appreciation. Miami-Dade County Animal Services is teaming up with Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired to celebrate International Guide Dog Day tomorrow, as reported by Miami-Dade County's official release. The day's highlight is set to be the unveiling of the "SUPER EVA" Seeing Eye Dog painting, paying homage to a retired service animal that has played a critical role in the life of Miami Lighthouse’s President and CEO, Virginia A. Jacko.
With Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, and Annette Jose, Director of Miami-Dade County Animal Services, in attendance, the event promises to be a significant call to action for the recognition of the contributions that service animals bring to the lives of their caregivers, as well as an opportunity for public education about their role, according to the aforelinked release. Miami Lighthouse for the Blind has been a recipient of Miami-Dade County Community-Based Organization (CBO) funding since 2010, which supports their SGA Program serving seniors affected by vision loss.
The press conference will be held at Miami-Dade County Animal Services Pet Adoption and Protection Center at 3599 NW 79 Avenue, Doral, FL 33122, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. It is not just an awareness event but also a celebration of the bond between service animals and those they assist. Local artists from Miami Lighthouse, who will also be available for interviews, have contributed their creative expressions to share a message of inspiration and determination that transcends the visual limitations they face daily.
For those interested in learning more about service animals, or for media planning to cover the occasion, Miami-Dade County's announcement advises that Miami Lighthouse Artists will be on site, ready to share their stories and experiences.
