At a glance
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Evaluating the Efficacy of a Service Dog Training Program for Military Veterans With PTSD
In Brief
A clinical study evaluating Service Dog Training Program and Dog Training Education for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Completed, enrolled 60 participants across 1 site.
Detailed Summary
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), an invisible wound of war, affects approximately 20%1 of the 18.5 million U.S. veterans and places them at higher risk for impaired biopsychosocial functioning. PTSD symptom severity (PTSDSS) is significantly correlated with stress and psychosocial consequences of inability to regulate emotions, control impulsive behaviors, and function within family and society. Alarming veteran PTSD rates and its insidious effects demand empirically validated treatment programs. More than a million veterans receive new diagnoses of each year. VA PTSD therapy programs reach only 1% of veterans. Nearly 35% of veterans do not respond to widely used psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy treatments. Training a service dog (SD) is a novel rehabilitative animal-assisted intervention that shows promise in other populations. This project evaluates the efficacy of a service dog training program (SDTP) as an alternative and adjunctive treatment and rehabilitative option for veterans with PTSD.
Study Details
Timeline
Interventions
Participate in 8 weekly dog training sessions using a positive reinforcement method and curriculum under the direct supervision of trainer at the Warrior Canine Connection facility in Boyds (Montgomery County) MD.
Learn about training dogs by watching 8 weekly dog training online modules programs at the Warrior Canine Connection facility in Boyds (Montgomery County) MD. After completing this education the participants will participate in the service dog training program.