Clark County Commissioner April Becker will host a special ceremony at the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 17, to celebrate National Service Dog Month. The iconic landmark will be illuminated in blue and yellow to honor the life-changing partnerships between service dogs and the people they support.

“Service dogs give people with disabilities a level of independence that changes everything, from holding a job to living safely on their own,” said Commissioner Becker. “I’m proud that Clark County can help shine a light on their remarkable partnership and the difference it makes across our community.”

“Clark County recognizing National Service Dog Month and affirming its commitment to accessibility is a milestone of global proportions,” said Kyle Kensing, Public Relations Manager, Canine Companions Southwest Region. “The growth of the Canine Companions community in southern Nevada is a reflection of the vibrance and diversity of this fast-growing region. What’s more, as a hub for worldwide tourism, Canine Companions is proud to be recognized in association with Clark County recognizing the life-changing impact of service dogs for the millions who flock here every year.”

More than 70 million adults and children in the United States live with a disability, but only about 16,000 service dogs from accredited training programs are available nationwide, according to Canine Companions. National Service Dog Month raises awareness of the vital role service dogs play and the laws that protect their access rights.