K9s for Warriors Service Dogs Bring Hope to Veterans

K9s for Warriors is a non-profit organization that trains service dogs to assist veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury, and other conditions.

These service dogs are trained to provide physical support and comfort, helping veterans to regain their independence and confidence.

Their training program is based in Ponte Vedra, Florida, and has trained over 2,000 dogs and paired them with veterans since its inception in 2011.

The organization's mission is to provide a safe and supportive environment for veterans to heal and recover.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Psychiatric Service Dog Organizations

K9s For Warriors was founded in 2011 by Shari Duval. She was inspired by her son, Brett Simon, a contractor who returned from two tours in Iraq.

Brett developed severe post-traumatic stress. This experience motivated Shari to create a program that would help veterans like her son.

K9s for Warriors has made a significant impact on the lives of veterans with PTSD. Scientific studies have proven that service dogs can be an effective treatment for veterans with PTSD.

Their partnership with Purdue University in 2015 led to a groundbreaking study that found veterans with a PTSD service dog reported lower PTSD symptoms and anxiety. This is a remarkable finding, especially considering the challenges many veterans face.

Veterans with a PTSD service dog also reported better social functioning, better sleep, and less anger, according to the study. These benefits are a testament to the positive impact of service dogs on mental health.

For your interest: Canine Companions Service Dogs

K9s For Warriors partnered with Purdue University in 2015 to study the effectiveness of service dogs for veterans with PTSD. This research was one of the first to define the biobehavioral effects of service dogs on veterans with PTSD.

Military veterans with a PTSD service dog reported lower PTSD symptoms, anxiety, and depression compared to those on the waitlist. They also experienced better social functioning, better sleep, and less anger.

A large-scale clinical trial is currently underway at the National Institutes of Health to further study the efficacy of service dogs for veterans with PTSD. This trial will help us better understand the interrelationships between psychological and behavioral processes, PTSD symptoms, and service dogs.

Gabriel P., a Ponte Vedra Beach resident, recently received a service dog named Chris from K9s For Warriors.

Chris is trained to help Gabriel manage symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder that resulted from his military service.

The training program at K9s For Warriors has been amended to comply with CDC guidelines since the COVID-19 pandemic started.

K9s For Warriors CEO Rory Diamond said getting a service dog can be a life-changing event.

The rate of veteran suicide in the country is unacceptable, according to Diamond.

K9s For Warriors is a national nonprofit that procures eligible shelter dogs and trains them to be service dogs.

The organization operates from two facilities in North Florida, where they pair veterans with service dogs and train them together.

After three weeks with their new service dog, veterans have learned how to reintegrate into society and reduce suicidal ideation, according to K9s For Warriors.

Gabriel's goal is to take his son to a theme park someday with his service dog by his side.

Since moving to Florida, Gabriel has been unable to take his son to theme parks due to his fears of crowds and public places.