Dogs have a long history of helping those in need, and for veterans and those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), canine companions can be a great source of support. Dogs can provide a sense of unconditional love and companionship that can help alleviate stress, depression, and other symptoms of PTSD. Additionally, the structure and routine that caring for a dog can provide can be beneficial for those who struggle with the disorder. This article will discuss the ways in which dogs can help those with PTSD and provide insight into how these animals can be an invaluable source of comfort and support.
A quote from a veteran suffering from PTSD provides a unique perspective on the power of canine companionship: “My dog helped me when I was struggling with PTSD. He was always there when I felt overwhelmed with emotion. He was my rock and I could rely on him to make me feel better.” — Jason, Veteran
The companionship of a dog can be an invaluable source of comfort and support for those with PTSD. Dogs can provide non-judgmental and unconditional love, which can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation. Additionally, the presence of a dog can provide a sense of security and can help reduce anxiety and stress. Research has shown that simply petting a dog can be helpful in alleviating symptoms of PTSD.
Caring for a dog can also be beneficial for those with PTSD. Dogs require structure and routine to stay healthy and happy, which can provide a sense of purpose and consistency for those who struggle with the disorder. Having a dog to care for can also help to instill a sense of responsibility and can provide a much-needed distraction from intrusive thoughts. Additionally, simply being around a dog can help to reduce stress and can provide a sense of calm.
Statistics regarding dogs and PTSD can provide insight into the capacity of these animals to help those afflicted with the disorder. According to the Humane Society of the United States, 70 percent of veterans with PTSD report feeling less anxious when they are around their pet. Additionally, research has found that veterans with PTSD who own a pet are more likely to receive regular mental health care than those without a pet. Finally, studies have shown that veterans with PTSD who had a service dog reported a 54 percent decrease in symptoms of the disorder.
In addition to providing comfort and support, there are also a variety of programs designed to help veterans and those suffering from PTSD obtain a canine companion. Organizations such as Paws for Purple Hearts and Pets for Vets provide trained service dogs to those in need. These programs provide veterans and those with PTSD with highly trained dogs that can provide physical and emotional support. Additionally, many animal shelters offer therapy dogs that are available for adoption, as well as programs specifically designed to help veterans with PTSD.
Overall, dogs can be a great source of comfort and support for those with PTSD. The unconditional love and companionship that canine companions provide can help to alleviate feelings of isolation and anxiety, while the structure and routine of caring for a dog can help those with the disorder stay grounded. Statistics regarding dogs and PTSD offer insight into the capacity of these animals to help those afflicted with the disorder, and there are a variety of programs designed to help veterans and those with PTSD obtain a canine companion.
References
1. “PTSD and Animals.” Humane Society of the United States, www.humanesociety.org/resources/ptsd-and-animals.
2. “Pets for Vets.” Pets for Vets, www.petsforvets.com/.
3. “Service Dogs Help Veterans with PTSD.” National Institute of Mental Health, www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/service-dogs-help-veterans-with-ptsd/index.shtml.