How Impactful are Service Dogs?
The Dogtopia Foundation was established to “enable dogs to positively change our world” and they are doing just that.
Professional studies and evidence further validate what many people already know to be true: animal companionship can help support beneficial physical and mental health outcomes including:
Assistance with Physical Disabilities: Service dogs can be trained to assist veterans with mobility concerns, such as those who use wheelchairs, by opening doors, picking items up from the floor or another surface, and providing balance and stability.
Improving Mental Health Conditions: Service dogs can provide support to veterans with mental health conditions such as PTSD, depression and anxiety. They can offer emotional support, interrupt panic attacks, provide a sense of security, and help veterans feel more connected to the world around them.
Increased Socialization: Veterans with service dogs may find it easier to interact with other people as the dog can act as a social bridge and help them feel more comfortable in social situations.
Regain a Sense of Independence: Service dogs can enable veterans to perform tasks that they may not be able to do on their own, therefore increasing their sense of independence.
Companionship: Service dogs can offer companionship and unconditional love, which can be particularly beneficial for veterans who may feel isolated or alone.