In a shocking incident, Jim Stanek, a disabled military veteran, says United Airlines employees kicked his service dog not once but twice, while at the airport.
One employee also insulted Jim by calling him derogatory names.
Jim Stanek is the founder of Paws and Stripes, which pairs disabled vets with service dogs.
Jim has served three combat tours in Iraq and has PTSD and a brain injury.
Jim now says he wants to help raise awareness of the issue.
He’s not seeking a boycott of United Airlines. He just doesn’t want other disabled veterans, and individuals with service dogs to have a similar experience. He would like to see employees of the airline better educated on disabilities and service dogs. He would also like people to share his story to help make positive changes for service dogs and disabled veterans. [Source Story on DogHeirs.com]
Commentary. Below is a commentary by Greg Johnson of the Consumer Defense Resource Group.
“This is really a sad story, and unfortunately a common one. I think Jim is doing an exceptional job of telling his story respectfully. Jim acknowledges that a small minority of employees acted rudely and unprofessionally. So, he’s not calling for a boycott of United Airlines, but asking that changes be made to ensure something like this doesn’t happen again. Such changes could be achieved through better employee training regarding service dogs and people with special needs. Also, it’s essential to discipline and dismiss employees who consistently act rude and unprofessional.” ~ Greg Johnson
Video. Below is a video of Jim telling the story of this incident.
Below are two videos explaining more about Paws and Stripes.