Service animals are trained to assist individuals with disabilities by performing specific tasks, thereby enhancing their independence and quality of life.
Why it Matters:
Service animals, particularly dogs, have been shown to significantly benefit individuals with PTS by reducing symptoms, enhancing social interactions, and improving overall psychological well-being, according to both empirical studies and anecdotal evidence.
Service animals have become integral to the support systems designed for individuals suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS), providing a non-pharmacological approach that complements traditional therapies. The evolution of service animals for therapeutic purposes has roots in historical practices, yet it is the empirical evidence and personal anecdotes that underscore their value in contemporary mental health treatment, particularly for PTS.
The concept of utilizing animals for therapeutic purposes dates back to ancient civilizations, but it was not until the 20th century that animals, specifically dogs, were formally recognized for their therapeutic potential in mental health. The history of service animals as therapeutic aids began with their use in World War II to assist physically disabled veterans. Over time, this role expanded to include psychological support, particularly for PTS, a condition prevalent among veterans and first responders but also affecting individuals who have experienced traumatic events.
The most common type of service animal used for PTS treatment is the dog. This preference is not arbitrary; dogs have a unique capacity for empathy, can be trained to perform specific tasks, and have a long-standing relationship with humans that fosters a deep bond. These characteristics make them particularly effective for individuals with PTS, who often benefit from the consistent companionship, unconditional support, and sense of safety that a service dog provides.
Empirical evidence supporting the efficacy of service animals in treating PTS is growing. A seminal study by O’Haire and Rodriguez [1] found that veterans with service dogs reported lower levels of PTS symptoms, including reduced anxiety, depression, and an increase in social participation. The study, which used a sample of veterans with service dogs compared to those on a waiting list for a service dog, showed a significant reduction in symptom severity in the group with service dogs, with 82% reporting decreased symptoms.
Further supporting this, a systematic review by Kamioka et al. [2] analyzed outcomes across multiple studies and found that interaction with service animals led to significant improvements in psychological well-being among individuals with PTS. The review highlighted reductions in anxiety levels, enhanced mood, and improved social interactions as key benefits.
Anecdotal evidence also plays a crucial role in understanding the impact of service animals on PTS treatment. Many individuals report profound changes in their quality of life after partnering with a service animal. Veterans, in particular, have shared stories about how their service dogs have helped them manage flashbacks, improve sleep quality, and re-engage with society – outcomes that, for some, were not fully achieved through traditional therapies alone.
The types of tasks that service dogs are trained to perform for individuals with PTS include creating physical space in crowded environments, interrupting harmful behaviors, and providing tactile stimulation during anxiety attacks. These tasks are not only practical but also facilitate a stronger bond between the individual and their service dog, enhancing the therapeutic effects.
Despite the positive outcomes associated with service animals for PTS treatment, there are considerations to be made regarding long-term effects. The dependency on a service animal may pose challenges, such as when the animal ages or if the individual becomes overly reliant on the animal for social interactions. However, these concerns are generally mitigated by the training and support provided by organizations that specialize in service animals for PTS, ensuring that both the individual and the animal are prepared for a healthy, beneficial partnership.
In conclusion, service animals, particularly dogs, have emerged as a significant adjunctive treatment for PTS, offering both empirical and anecdotal evidence of their efficacy. The historical context of their use has evolved from physical assistance to encompass psychological support, reflecting a broader understanding of the multifaceted nature of healing. As research continues to elucidate the mechanisms by which service animals exert their beneficial effects, their role in treating PTS is likely to become even more integral, providing a complementary approach that addresses both the symptoms and the social impacts of this condition.
Written by: Joey Fio, Chief Programs Officer
[1] O’Haire, M. E., & Rodriguez, K. E. (2018). The role of service dogs in the treatment of veterans with PTSD. Psychiatric Annals, 48(2), 85-91.
[2] Kamioka, H., Okada, S., Tsutani, K., Park, H., Okuizumi, H., Handa, S., Oshio, T., Park, S.J., Kitayuguchi, J., Abe, T., Honda, T., & Mutoh, Y. (2014). Effectiveness of animal-assisted therapy: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 22(2), 371-390.
Service animals are expensive and there are quite a few organizations that create them. Understanding that this “treatment” is a band aid that will eventually pass might cause more harm than good down the line.