10 years of raising funds for veterans, service dogs

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - An annual clay shoot at Sarasota Trap and Skeet raised funds Sunday for an organization that supports local veterans, first responders and their service dogs.The Backwoods Blast marked its 10th year. Organizers said 100% of funds raised go directly toward training and connecting service dogs with local veterans and first responders.A veteran’s service continuesJim Berger, a veteran, served in the Navy from 1982 to 1986. “Its an extreme honor and a pleasure. I’ve always wanted to serve my country ever since I was a little kid,” Berger said.Berger is now paired with a service dog.“His ability to read me, my ability to work with him, he’s much more than just a pet,” Berger said.Canines 4 HeroesBerger was trained with his service dog by Canines 4 Heroes. The organization was founded by Mark LaFlamme after he served in the military and saw how a service dog could change a life. LaFlamme described the change he’s seen in those who receive a service dog.“His PTSD was s