Mason Hosts Service Dog Workshop

GURNEE, Ill. – In partnership with Operation Fetch, state Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, hosted a free service dog education and first-aid workshop at the University Center in Grayslake.

“We had a full day of engaging presentations that covered a lot of important, potentially life-saving material,” Mason said. “It was incredible to have top experts in the country take part in this training, and it was wonderful to see two National Hero Dogs together, demonstrating their skills for us. This event couldn’t have happened without help from the Grayslake Fire Department, TOPS Kennel, Sheriff John Idleburg and Deputy John Forlenza of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, firefighter and paramedic Eric Roth, and Lon Hodge and George Gandara of Operation Fetch. I want to thank every one of them for donating their time and resources to make this day possible.”

The workshop featured instruction from Lon Hodge, Director of Operation Fetch, and his service dog Gander, 2016 American Humane Service Dog Hero and recipient of the 2014 American Kennel Club Award for Canine Excellence. Together, Hodge and Gander assist veterans, first responders and civilians affected by trauma. Hodge and Gander have trained law enforcement, medical schools, corporations and civic organizations throughout the country, and the two are also the subject of two documentary films on post-traumatic stress disorder and trauma. The workshop also featured firefighter and specially trained safety and medical officer Eric “Odie” Roth. Roth is the author of the book, “K9 Medic,” and hosts seminars across the country in K-9 first aid and CPR. A special demonstration on law enforcement canines was given by K-9 Dax, 2019 American Humane Law Enforcement Hero Dog, and his partner Deputy John Forlenza of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.

​