War Vets Heal With the Help of Shelter Dogs

Just weeks after bringing home his dog, Brandon Allen, an Iraq war veteran with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), was able to cut in half his dose of anxiety and sleep medications. The terrible dreams at night and suicidal thoughts that filled his brain ended, he finally felt safe and at peace with himself. 

This is a story we often hear, vets who can finally go back into a grocery store for the first time in years, ride the bus and start working on a new life. The dogs that give them this gift are not just pets; they are lifesaving emotional support animals trained to help their people leave the battlefield behind.

Up to 31% of soldiers returning from combat in Iraq and Afghanistan experience depression or PTSD that can affect their jobs, relationships and daily lives according to a new study by Army researchers. For as many as 14% of these veterans, the depression or PTSD causes major problems in their daily lives including alcohol abuse and aggressive behavior.

Canines With a Cause will continue to expand our programs for veterans and their families, we will continue to rescue healthy, adoptable dogs from death row in shelters and train them for their new homes, we will also continue to be grateful for your ongoing financial support to continue our important work.

We ask that you take the time on Veterans Day to thank any veterans you know and maybe even some you don't. Make a phone call, send an email, stop someone in uniform on the street and let them know how much you appreciate the sacrifice they have made for our country.

Thank You,

Cathy King