Dogs live to please and serve humans

Whether it's the faithful Dalmatian sitting stoically in the firehouse, the pointer chasing down a pheasant or the St. Bernard rescuing another stranded mountain climber, dogs have a long history of service to humans.

But beyond the cliche images, canines serve their masters in myriad ways.

Junkyard dogs have scared-off their share of thieves. But consider the pooches that sniff out drugs and bombs, and the military dogs that patrol the borders and scout the enemies.

What about those that shepherd the flocks or lead the blind? Think of the thousands of nursing home residents or prisoners cheered by a visit from one of the furry ones. Dogs assist the autistic, the paraplegic, the hearing-impaired, the highly allergic.

Jeanine Konopelski, of California-based Canine Companions for Independence, said dogs have instinctual traits that make them excellent servants.

"Dogs have an innate desire to please their masters," she said. "And they love to work."

The nonprofit Canine Companions has been training assistance dogs for people with disabilities since 1975. The group has placed more than 2,500 dogs since it began.

Konopelski said the benefits of owning a service dog go beyond the practical help they give.

"The bond between humans and animals has existed for centuries," she said. "The companionship that develops is just as important as the independence the dog provides for its owner."

Michigan-based Paws with a Cause is celebrating its 30th year training assistance dogs. Paws spokeswoman Deb Davis said she is still amazed how the animals contribute to the lives of the disabled.

Davis said it's common for people with disabilities to become isolated from society. But dogs serve as "bridge" to the outside world.

"The dog invites social interaction," Davis said. "Instead of averting their eyes to the man in the wheelchair, people will come up and say, 'Hey, what's your dog's name?' Now they stop to visit. The 'guy in the wheelchair' becomes the 'man with the dog' instead. It's dignifying."