In honor of memorial day, I thought I would highlight the role animals play in helping our veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Here in Arizona, the nonprofit organization Soldiers Best Friend matches dogs with soldiers who suffer from this debilitating problem. Once a soldier is accepted into the program, they are matched with a dog who is usually adopted from a shelter. From that point on, the two live together in order to quickly create a deep bond. They attend classes that teach the veteran and the dog how to work together as a team. Depending upon the program selected, dogs will graduate as either a Certified Service Dog or a Therapeutic Companion Dog.
People with PTSD suffer from a multitude of symptoms including acute panic attacks, fear of crowded areas, nightmares, depression and anxiety. The dogs learn to read their veteran’s emotional state and provide comfort by waking them up, cuddling into their side or protecting them from strangers. The dog gives the veteran the confidence to go out into the world again. More information is available at www.soldiersbestfriend.org.
The Veterinary Health Care Team of Arizona decided to sponsor the team of Staff Sergeant Michael Harris and his dog, Maddy. Maddy was adopted from the Yavapai Humane Society in Prescott, Arizona. They are trying to raise $2,500.00 for training expenses. If you would like to help, please go to www.veterinaryhealthcareteam.org to make a donation.