The Science Behind Service Dogs Helping Veterans with PTSD
For many veterans, the impact of having a service animal goes beyond just companionship. Jay William Cook II, a U.S. Army veteran, struggled with driving and hyper-vigilance after returning home from service. That is, until he met Spalding, a rescue dog turned service dog by K9s for Warriors.
“It was just, I hate to be – but – love at first sight, just all that energy. She poured it all into me,” Cook said.
Through the companionship and support of Spalding, Cook was able to reintegrate into normal activities and overcome his PTSD symptoms. This experience mirrors what many veterans have shared about the positive impact of service dogs on their mental health and quality of life.
Researchers at the University of Arizona have now scientifically proven this impact through a recent study that followed 156 veterans, half of whom received a service dog after their first assessment. The results showed that veterans with a service dog experienced lower PTSD symptoms, less depression and anxiety, and an overall higher quality of life.
Maggie O’Haire, associate dean for research at the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Arizona, emphasized the significance of these findings, especially in addressing the high rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide among veterans.
“Our studies are showing that veterans with a service dog appear to be struggling less,” O’Haire said.
Furthermore, clinicians working with veterans diagnosed with PTSD independently reported that veterans with a service dog had 66% lower odds of having a PTSD diagnosis. This evidence highlights the potential benefits of incorporating service dogs into treatment plans for veterans with mental health challenges.
For veterans like Cook, having a service dog like Thunder by their side is not just a companionship but a crucial tool for managing symptoms and improving daily life.
As this research continues to shed light on the positive impact of service dogs, it is hoped that more veterans will have access to these valuable resources for their mental health and well-being.
