A FAMOUS ENGLISH LABRADOR

A FAMOUS LABRADOR HERO

Endal December 13, 1995---March 13, 2009

Today I would like to recognize one of the most famous English Labrador Retrievers known to date.

Endal was a service dog that gained international fame in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s. He was trained to assist his owner and veteran, Allen Parton who was left wheelchair bound after a serious car accident during the Gulf War.

Endal was specially trained to perform a wide range of tasks, which included operating light switches, opening doors, and even using an ATM machine.

After falling out of his wheelchair, Parton suffered a seizure. Luckily Endal was right there and dragged him into the recovery position, ultimately saving Parton’s life. This incident gained Endal a great deal of media attention, who was soon awarded the PDSA Gold Medal for his bravery and devotion, an award which is the animal equivalent to the Victoria Cross.

Among other distinctions, Endal was described as "the most decorated dog in the world" (including "Dog of the Millennium".

Endal who passed away in 2009 left behind a legacy that has inspired countless people around the world to recognize the value of a service dog. Endal is buried in Ilford PDSA Animal Cemetery, London, England, UK.

The Americans with Disabilities Act defines the term ‘service animal’ as “dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities”. Dogs being the most common service animals have been assisting humans since at least 1927.

I hope you enjoyed reading this article.

P.S. Remember to hug your dog today!