How Service Dogs Can HelpVeterans

BY EDWARD WI THROWEDWARDW I THROW .COM

Service DogsService dogs are trained to

help those with mental and

physical disabilities accomplish

everyday tasks. For veterans

suffering from war-related

injuries and/or PTSD, these

dogs can change lives. The

following are some ways these

pups can help veterans.

DecreaseStress

Dogs have been proven to

reduce stress and anxiety in

their owners. Since veterans

tend to experience a great deal

of stress and anxiety in daily

life, dogs are ideal in that they

provide a constant calming

presence.

GroundingPresenceNot only are they great

companions, dogs are also

grounding forces. When they

are by the side of their owners,

they are a constant reminder of

what is present and real. This is

invaluable to those suffering

from PTSD.

PanicPredictors

Service dogs are trained to be

able to respond to all episodes

their owner goes through. For

example, they can predict a

panic attack before it happens

and work to alleviate its

effects.

SocialCompanion

Many veterans have trouble

reinserting themselves into

social situations. This often

stems from the anxiety of

being surrounded by a lot of

people. Service dogs can

provide a physical barrier

between veterans and others,

making sure veterans remain

comfortable.

TrustingRelationshipA big thing from which veterans

tend to struggle is trust. It is

difficult for them to trust anyone

or anything when they return

from war. Dogs are loyal

creatures, and very easy to trust.

They are the first step to

rebuilding trusting relationships

with others.

MoreInformation

For more information, check out:

http://www.ptsd.va.gov/public/tr

eatment/cope/dogs_and_ptsd.as

p