Proclamation
WHEREAS, We believe in the joyful, transformative power of the human-canine bond and inclusivity of all citizens; and
WHEREAS, In the United States, more than 70 million adults and children have a disability and only 16,000 service dogs from accredited training programs exist nationwide and the need is growing; and
WHEREAS, Canine Companions is a nonprofit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing expertly trained service dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships; and
WHEREAS, Canine Companions and their service dogs empower people with disabilities to lead life with greater independence by providing best-in- class training, ongoing follow up services and a deeply committed community of support; and
WHEREAS, National Service Dog Month aims to educate our community about the benefits of service dogs and the laws protecting them; and
WHEREAS, In the 250th year of our nation, the City of Merced continues to work toward becoming an inclusive community in which all citizens, and their trained service dogs, are embraced.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, MATTHEW SERRATTO, Mayor in recognition of service dogs and the adults and children with disabilities in our community, I, Mathew Serratto, Mayor of Merced, do hereby proclaim September to be National Service Dog Month. I encourage all citizens to celebrate service dogs and be respectful of the rights to safe access to our community afforded to the adults, children and veterans who lead more independent lives because of their assistance.
Signed this 8
th day of September 2026
Matthew Serratto, Mayor of Merced