From fetching what could be life saving medication, staying calm off the leash through TSA checkpoints, and comforting handlers with anxiety.

A dog demonstration wraps up HMI Guam’s 4th Annual Veteran Symposium at the University of Guam lecture hall on Friday.

“Because I’m also a veteran, this is (about) helping out the other veterans. That’s what motivates me,” said Eddie Toves, a US Army Veteran and retired Guam Air National Guardsman.

Toves has served the country for nearly 29 years. He’s also been a certified master dog trainer since 1996.

“I’ve always loved dogs since I was growing up so, I ended up finding someone to help assist me in learning how to train dogs. After he left, I ended up being a certified trainer by a ten year course,” added Toves.

His family run company K-9 2000 LLC has trained hundreds of dogs for Guam families in the past two decades, including rescue dog Bear.

His owner, Isaiah Cole Torrie says, “He’s helped me stay more focused. I have a problem with spacing out sometimes. I also get very nervous in crowded public spaces. I’m prone to high anxiety. He helps me to stay grounded and stay focused.”

The demo leaving the audience of veterans interested in how they too can rely on their faithful companion to be there during their time of need.

You can check them out by visiting www.guamdogtrainers.com! Or call them at (671) 727-2335.

Whether its for mobility assistance or daily living support, a well trained dog can make a life saving difference.