Free Service Dogs for PTSD: A Partner in Independence

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Posted Oct 16, 2024

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Photo of Soldiers Talking to Each Other
Credit: pexels.com, Photo of Soldiers Talking to Each Other

Service dogs can be a game-changer for individuals living with PTSD, providing a sense of security and independence.

These highly trained animals are specifically designed to assist with tasks that may be difficult or impossible for their owners to perform on their own.

A service dog can be trained to respond to a person's PTSD triggers, such as loud noises or crowded spaces, by providing a calming presence or distraction.

Some service dogs are even trained to detect changes in their owner's physiological responses, such as increased heart rate or sweating, that may indicate an impending anxiety attack.

By having a service dog by their side, individuals with PTSD can regain a sense of control and confidence in their daily lives.

Service Dogs for PTSD

Service Dogs for PTSD can be a game-changer for veterans struggling with anxiety and stress. A PTSD service dog can help veterans navigate the adjustment to civilian life and reduce overall anxiety and stress.

Credit: youtube.com, Watch service dog calm war vet's PTSD reaction

Putnam Service Dogs provides free service dogs for veterans with PTSD, as well as physical disabilities other than blindness. They also offer free follow-up training on how to work with your dog.

A PTSD service dog can be a wonderful companion for veterans with PTSD, and can help aid or improve their life and well-being. At Putnam Service Dogs, each veteran is matched with a dog who can help them.

The dogs used for service dog training are mixed-breed, rescue dogs that are carefully selected and socialized by volunteers and trainers. A lot of time and effort goes into the service dog training program to assure the dog is ready and prepared for the job.

Valor Service Dogs is another organization that helps post-9/11 wounded veterans regain their independence and return to civilian life with the help of service dogs. They train and place mobility assistance and PTSD service dogs with veterans.

Benefits and Features

Credit: youtube.com, PTSD and service dogs: Beneath the surface | Shannon Walker | TEDxMtHood

A service dog can be a game-changer for individuals with PTSD.

Their presence can help lower blood pressure and give a sense of ease to their handler.

A well-behaved dog can provide emotional support, which is invaluable for those dealing with mental health struggles.

Their companionship can relieve some of the trials associated with disabilities on a mental level.

Who We Help

We help military veterans who are struggling to adjust to civilian life after their service. Many veterans experience PTSD, a condition that can make everyday life a challenge.

Our service dogs are trained to provide physical and psychological support, helping veterans navigate the transition from military life to civilian life.

We match our service dogs with veterans who can provide a stable and loving home for them, as well as the necessary care and attention they need. This includes exercising the dog regularly and affording to care for it, which can cost around $1,500-$2,000 per year.

Credit: youtube.com, How Can Service Dogs Help Individuals with TBI and PTSD?

We also provide follow-up training to help veterans learn how to work with their service dog, so they can make the most of this life-changing experience.

Our service dogs are not just a source of comfort, but also a conversation starter that can help veterans feel more confident and comfortable in public.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the three questions you can ask about a service dog?

You can ask only two questions about a service dog: (1) Is the dog required because of a disability? and (2) What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

Sources

  1. Psychiatric Service Dogs (littleangelsservicedogs.org)
  2. http://www.prosthetics.va.gov/ServiceAndGuideDogs.asp (va.gov)
  3. Assistance Dogs International (assistancedogsinternational.org)
  4. here (assistancedogsinternational.org)
  5. VA Service Dog FAQ (va.gov)
  6. Free Service Dogs for Vets in the NY Area (putnamservicedogs.org)
  7. How To Get A Low-Cost Or Free Service Dog (superdog.com)
  8. Mobility & PTSD Service Dogs for Veterans & First ... (valorservicedogs.org)

Deanna Smitham

Junior Assigning Editor

Deanna Smitham is a seasoned Assigning Editor with a passion for storytelling that makes a difference. With a keen eye for compelling narratives, she has curated a diverse portfolio of articles on topics that resonate with readers, including service dogs, disability organizations, and animal charities. Deanna's expertise lies in assigning and editing articles that highlight the impact of these organizations and the people they serve.

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