When soldiers come back from war, part of the war comes back with them. For many veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan, the return home is not a postscript to the war so much as another chapter. In these conflicts, mental wounds have outnumbered physical ones. Post traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury have been called the wars' signature injuries.
In recent years rates of substance abuse and suicide among veterans have ticked steadily upward. A certain number of veterans suffering from mental-health issues will, invariably, end up in jail or prison.
Approximately 10 percent of people who are incarcerated at any one time are estimated to be veterans. With many of them suffering from PTSD, mental illnesses or substance abuse problems, several national initiatives and treatment programs have surfaced to help prevent unnecessary incarceration when possible.
K9s for Warriors rescues dogs from shelters prior to being euthanized and trains them to be service dogs for veterans with PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injury. The dogs are trained to meet CGC (Canine Good Citizen) standards. Upon completion, they are paired with a veteran with PTSD based upon his/her special needs and the special tasks the dog is most capable of performing. It's been known that service dogs are a natural cure for PTSD.
Furry Pawz & Clawz supports "K9s for warriors" we do believe that dogs are really man's best friend;-) If you would like to take part in spreading the awareness please do so. You can also make a donation by clicking on the link below.
