Man’s Best Friend: In War and At Home

Saturday, May 16 | 1-2 pm | Included with admission

NOTE: ICAN will have an informational table and dogs from 10 am – 4 pm.

Throughout history, dogs have been trained to complete a variety of tasks to assist their human handlers. Even during the Vietnam War, approximately four to five thousand dogs assisted troops by serving as sentries, scouts, and trackers- saving the lives of an estimated ten thousand military personnel. After returning from the war, veterans often found themselves needing assistance in new ways. Organizations like the Indiana Canine Assistant Network (ICAN) found themselves well-equipped to fill the needs of returning soldiers. ICAN is Indiana’s only accredited service dog organization, dedicated to empowering people with disabilities through highly trained service dogs. ICAN’s mission is rooted in connection, independence, and opportunity—impacting lives in communities across the state. 

Join us for a short presentation about working dogs in the Vietnam War and a demonstration by ICAN on how dogs continue to assist humans after they return home. The presentation is open for all ages, but best suited for eight and older. 

Presented in partnership with the Indiana Canine Assistant Network (ICAN)

Presented by Carter Family Fund with Additional Support from Ayres Foundation and Nicholas H. Noyes, Jr., Memorial Foundation, Inc., and Arthur Jordan Foundation