The first NIH-funded clinical trial has confirmed that service dogs significantly improve the lives of veterans with PTSD.
Conducted by the University of Arizona in partnership with K9s For Warriors, the study found that veterans paired with service dogs had a 66% lower chance of receiving a PTSD diagnosis compared to those receiving traditional care without a dog.
The research, which is the most extensive of its kind, assessed veterans’ PTSD symptoms, psychosocial functioning, quality of life, and social health over three months.
Veterans with service dogs reported lower levels of anxiety and depression, along with significant improvements in emotional and social well-being.
Kevin Steele, Chief Program Officer at K9s For Warriors, emphasized the transformative power of service dogs, calling them “life-saving and life-transforming” for veterans.
He noted that the study’s findings validate the organization’s mission, showing that service dogs help veterans reconnect with their families, friends, and communities.
Dr. Maggie O’Haire, the study’s lead author, stressed the importance of this scientific evidence, particularly as the popularity of service dogs for PTSD increases among veterans.
“I think that service dogs have become increasingly popular for veterans, specifically for PTSD, and I think that for a while, we could support this based on anecdotes or emotional intuition,” O’Haire said. “But now that this practice is growing, we see the need for evidence on a scientific basis.”
She highlighted the need for clinicians to feel better equipped to support this therapeutic approach, with data confirming its effectiveness.
The study also shared the inspiring story of Marine Corps veteran Bill Lins, who credits his service dog, Link, with helping him recover from severe PTSD and a traumatic brain injury.
“I don’t know how they picked such a remarkably perfect animal to pair with me,” Lins said. “He has done a 180 in my world, and my kids are all so thankful that he’s here.”
Lins described the profound bond he shares with Link, noting that the dog’s presence has drastically improved his life and his relationships with his children.
For veterans struggling with PTSD, this study offers hope and a scientifically-backed alternative to traditional therapies.