On Thursday, June 6, 2019, Jana Spess and Jason Harrar with his service dog Loftus introduced their organization to the Emmaus Rotary. Tails of Valor is five years old and is rescuing both dogs, mostly mixed breeds with some Lab, and veterans returning to civilian life with challenges like post traumatic stress syndrome or traumatic brain injury. Tails of Valor works with both to insure a good match and a working relationship which lasts for years.It costs Tails of Valor between $25,000 and $30,000 bring a dog up to service dog qualifications. Then the selected Vet works with that dog before taking the dog home. Each dog is reevaluated annually and provided with wholesome human quality food for lifese.
Harrar joined the Marines in 1996 and served for 13 years. He then joined the Army Reserve. His service record includes tours of Iraq, Afghanistan and Syria. He credits Loftus with turning his life around.
All the dogs are named for fallen warriors and John Loftus was in the Navy during World War II. Loftus senses Harrar's changes of mood as events become stressful and paces and relaxes him. Harrar reminded Emmaus Rotary that he is not alone as there are 22 veteran suicides a day.
If Harrar got our attention, Loftus captured our hearts. You can do your part. Invite riders and friends, family, co-workers to join us on Saturday, June 29th for the Rotary Poker Run...rain or shine...at Blackman's Cycle. There will be good food and music to enjoy. The Run registration starts at 8 a.m. and the Post-ride check -in is at 11:30 a.m.
