A German Shepherd named Kaya doesn’t just have an adorable face. She is the loyal service dog of Marine veteran Cole Lyle. She’s been a big part of helping Lyle deal with his post-traumatic stress, but coaching her doesn’t come cheap. So Lyle and Kaya worked together to pass the PAWS Act to help other veterans get service dogs.
Sadly, this heroic and beloved service dog was recently diagnosed with incurable cancer. Many people came together to give her a warm and memorable farewell. Kaya has not only had a great influence on Lyle but also on thousands of people around the world.
Veteran and dog meet
Lyle enlisted as a mechanic for the Marines in 2008. In 2011, he trained as a shipwreck operator when he was deployed to Afghanistan’s Helmand province. During his time there, he suffered from post-traumatic stress. He never adds “disorder” at the end when talking about it.
“I personally don’t think it’s a disorder because I think people can learn as I and millions of other veterans have done to minimize those symptoms and live a fulfilling life,” says Lyle. enough and complete.
When Lyle left the Marines in 2014, Department of Veterans Affairs doctors prescribed medication and therapy for him, but nothing seemed to work. However, when he met Kaya, 10 weeks old, everything changed. Her initial veterinary training and care came to about $10,000, but Lyle needed Kaya in her life.
“Even as a puppy, dogs can provide a sense of purpose that drugs and therapy would never,” says Lyle. “They need care and you always have such a companion by your side, even if they are not trained.”
Kaya makes the world a better place
Kaya was fully trained in 2015. She knows how to wake Lyle from his nightmares and stop his anxiety attacks. If she suspects that Lyle is upset, she will jump up and lick his face to help calm him down and prevent his mood from getting worse.
Lyle’s life would be a lot darker without Kaya by her side. However, not all veterans can afford a service dog if they need one. So Lyle became increasingly determined to pass the PAWS Act. Whenever he has meetings about it with representatives and senators, Kaya is on his side.
Lyle said: “She really is the face of this endeavor. “I mean, sure, I can convince, and I can tell this story. But she’s actually the closer one.
The PAWS Act was passed in August 2021 and Kaya was with Lyle every step of the way. The act requires the VA to help pay for service dogs for veterans who need them.
Throughout Lyle and Kaya’s many adventures together, the puppy also comforts others in need. She has a gift for knowing when someone is upset or in need of help. Plus, her presence helped pass a life-changing action.
Service dog’s last flight
In late 2022, Lyle discovered an unusual bump near Kaya’s elbow. When he took her to the vet, they confirmed she had cancer that had spread throughout her body. Even with treatment, she may only have a few months to live, and she will be in pain for those months. So Lyle knew it was time to say goodbye.
Kaya flew on the plane with Lyle about 320 times. 250 of those were Southwest flights to places where the duo fought for the PAWS Act. So, on the flight back to Texas, Lyle let Southwest know it would be Kaya’s last flight. The staff did not disappoint. Before takeoff, the pilot made a special announcement in honor of Kaya.
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“We are honored to bring our loyal friend and hero, @kayalyle, home to rest after a lifetime of hard work. Over the course of her career, Kaya has flown with us more than 250 times to help establish the PAWS Act linking Veterans to service dogs. We are so grateful to be a part of her legacy and we thank her and owner @ctlyle for their years of service,” Southwest wrote on Instagram.
When Kaya arrived at the Dallas airport, thousands of people greeted her and welcomed her home. Afterwards, Lyle drove her around her hometown so those who knew her could say goodbye. Kaya has a delicious breakfast of pancakes, eggs, ham and bacon the next day. Before long, it was time to say goodbye.
Lyle isn’t ready to get another service dog, but he’s not sure if he needs one. Kaya has helped him in many ways and her impact on him will last a lifetime.
“She made me better than I really am,” Lyle said, “and saved my life.”
Watch the flight’s emotional announcement here:
Featured pictures: Instagram
