HOUSTON— KPRC 2 very first included Kirby, considered the Texans puppy, throughout a puppy bowl section in February.
And now, thanks to a sponsorship with the Houston Texans and Kroger, Kirby is being trained to be a service dog. Prior to that, Kirby had to take a break to strike the puppy stadium for a function on Animal World.
On Sunday, the now-famous puppy got to satisfy the army veteran he will quickly be happening with to help serve.
” A great deal of feelings. A great deal of feelings. It’s a true blessing. I understood it was indicated to be,” stated Sergeant Major (Ret.) Kevin Bittenbender.
Sgt. Bittenbender shared what it resembled conference Kirby throughout the Texans video game at NRG.
” It took me 8 years to lastly go speak with somebody,” Bittenbender stated.
Bittenbender stated he struggles with PTSD and likewise confessed took him a long time to come to terms with that conclusion. He stated he established it after serving in the United States Army for 34 years, throughout which he was released numerous times throughout Operation Enduring Flexibility.
In addition to requiring a lower left leg amputation due to fight service and burn pit direct exposure in Afghanistan, Bittenbender likewise handles psychological scars that run deep.
” I have survivor’s regret. I lost 3 terrific good friends of mine in Afghanistan. With that, I battle with it daily,” he stated.
Bittenbender obtained a service dog 6 months ago to help him with his daily life.
” I have a tough time, particularly in public. I’m hoping Kirby will help me out with that and be a channel, supplying me with more social capability to be social, ya understand?” Bittenbender discussed.
To be selected as America’s Vet Dogs‘ most current recipient, he calls it a true blessing.
When it comes to other veterans and very first responders going through a tough time. he stated it is very important to speak out and be heard.
” In the military, I believe we are a few of the very best stars and starlets. We installed this front and this armor and it is difficult to shed that armor. We do not wish to reveal weak point, however it’s ok. If you have a fellow veteran, connect to them and let them understand you got their 6 … you have their back and it’s okay to talk with you and show you what they require to leave their chest,” Bittenbender stated.
Bittenbender will go through his own training to discover Kirby’s commands and after that Kirby will sign up with the entire household at their house in Pennsylvania.
” Like I stated, I’m truly open up to starting this journey with Kirby,” he stated.
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