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In 2021, suicide was the second leading cause of death among veterans ages 45 and under. Oregon’s veteran suicide rate for 2021 was 49.6 per 100,000, which is higher than the general population and higher than the national suicide rate. In 2022, 17 Washington County veterans died by suicide.
As part of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, Washington County Disability, Aging and Veteran Services (DAVS) is partnering with K9 Kavalry on their fourth annual Dog Training Summit. Veterans and their leashed dogs – along with family and friends – have two chances to participate, both from 10 a.m.-noon:
- September 21, Mountain View Champions Park, 5915 SW 170th Ave., Beaverton
- September 28, Shadywood Park, 535 NE 24th Ave., Hillsboro
In addition to the dog training demonstrations, the free event will include information and resources from several local community-based organizations, as well as free pet food and supplies.
K9 Kavalry is a nonprofit organization that helps military veterans treat their service-connected disabilities through service dog training.
"As a veteran, I know our battles don't end when we leave the field, and that veteran suicide is a crisis we can’t ignore,” K9 Kavalry founder Dan Regester said. “That's why I've dedicated K9 Kavalry to this fight, standing shoulder to shoulder with our brothers and sisters in arms. Through our service dog program, we're committed to ensuring no warrior faces their struggles alone."
Registration for the summit is not required, but RSVPs are welcome at k9kavalry.org/event.
Washington County Veteran Services, part of Washington County Disability, Aging and Veteran Services, is a key resource for veterans and their families. Staff submit disability and benefit claims on behalf of veterans and serve as a resource hub, connecting veterans with local, state and federal resources. Veteran Services currently serves about half of the nearly 30,000 veterans who call Washington County home.
“We use a holistic approach in approaching veteran resources, making sure to include resources for their mental and emotional well-being,” says Paul Riggs, program specialist with DAVS. “We help them build community with other veterans, connect them with vital resources, and provide free gun safety locks as a way to reduce access to lethal means. This dog training summit is one of several activities we organize each year.”
Veterans and their families can learn more about DAVS’ services and programs by visiting the Veteran Services web page or calling 503-846-3060.
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