They have an unbelievable impact.
In a recent clinical trial, researchers discovered a significant breakthrough for military veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study, published in JAMA Network Open, revealed that pairing veterans with service dogs led to a remarkable 66% reduction in the likelihood of receiving a PTSD diagnosis compared to veterans without such companions. Lead researcher Maggie O’Haire from the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine emphasized the decade-long evidence supporting the positive impact of service dogs on veterans’ mental health, noting that these animals play a crucial role in helping veterans readjust and thrive after their service.
Over the course of three months, the study tracked more than 150 military veterans, the majority of whom received service dogs through the K9s For Warriors program, the largest provider of trained service dogs for veterans in the nation. These dogs, most of which are rescues, undergo an average of six months of training before being matched with veterans at no cost. The program aims to support veterans grappling with emotional distress and elevated suicide risk, a particularly urgent concern given the grim statistics indicating that nearly 20 veterans die by suicide each day.
The study’s findings underscore the urgent need for effective interventions to address the mental health challenges faced by veterans. With over 1 million veterans suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury, or military sexual trauma, initiatives like K9s For Warriors play a critical role in providing tangible support and companionship to those in need. Kevin Steele, chief program officer at K9s For Warriors, highlighted the transformative impact of service dogs, noting that these animals not only save lives but also enable veterans to reconnect with their families, communities, and a sense of hope for the future.
The results of the study further validate the success of programs like K9s For Warriors in improving the well-being of veterans and offer compelling evidence of the effectiveness of service dogs as a therapeutic intervention. This research underscores the importance of ongoing support and research into initiatives aimed at supporting veterans’ mental health and highlights the potential for service dogs to continue playing a vital role in assisting veterans in their transition to civilian life and beyond.
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