The Backwoods Blast at Sarasota Trap and Skeet celebrated its 10th year on Sunday, and the milestone belongs to more than just the shooters. Every dollar the event raises goes to training and pairing service dogs with local veterans and first responders through Canines 4 Heroes.
Navy veteran Jim Berger, who served from 1982 to 1986, was paired with a dog through the group. “His ability to read me, my ability to work with him, he’s much more than just a pet,” Berger said. Founder Mark LaFlamme, who started Canines 4 Heroes after his own military service, shared the story of one veteran with severe PTSD who returned to full-time work within six months of receiving a dog.
Ten years of a homegrown Sarasota fundraiser adds up to real change for people in our own community. Do you know a veteran or first responder who could benefit from a service dog? Share this story, or tell us about a local cause you support in the comments.
