Rescue Dogs Trained To Be PTSD Service Animals For Vets

Rescue Dogs Trained To Be PTSD Service Animals For Vets: From Shelter to Service. In a powerful Special Episode Podcast of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show, listeners are introduced to an inspiring story of second chances, for both people and dogs. Brett Simon from Big Dog Ranch Rescue in Palm Beach County, Florida, joins host Jay Wiley to share how rescue dogs are being trained to become PTSD service animals for veterans. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, is available for free on their website, also on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and many other podcast platforms.

“Every dog deserves a chance, and every veteran deserves help,” says Simon, a former Police K9 Handler and Military Combat Contractor who spent years working with canines in high-stress combat zones. “When we connect the two, a rescue dog needing purpose and a veteran needing healing, something extraordinary happens.” The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms.

From the Shelter to Service

At Big Dog Ranch Rescue (BDRR), the largest cage-free, no-kill rescue in the United States, dogs once abandoned in shelters are given new lives through their Veteran Service Dog Training Program. The initiative not only transforms the lives of veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but also saves the lives of the dogs themselves. Look for supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin .

The program’s mission is simple yet profound: give rescue dogs a second chance by training them to become PTSD service dogs for veterans and active-duty military personnel. “We’re giving hope twice,” Simon explains. “To the veteran who’s struggling and to the dog who was once unwanted.” Rescue Dogs Trained To Be PTSD Service Animals For Vets: From Shelter to Service.

The Healing Power of the Human-Animal Bond

PTSD service dogs are specially trained to perform tasks that help alleviate symptoms and improve daily functioning for individuals living with post-traumatic stress. These dogs offer comfort, protection, and companionship, often becoming an essential part of a veteran’s healing journey. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms.

Some of the trained tasks include:

Interrupting flashbacks or anxiety attacks: by nudging or placing their head on their handler’s lap.
Providing comfort: through deep pressure therapy by leaning or lying against the veteran.
Blocking and covering: positioning themselves in front or behind the veteran to create a sense of security.

Waking from nightmares: recognizing distress and gently waking the veteran.
Encouraging social interaction: helping veterans reconnect and feel more at ease in public spaces.

“PTSD doesn’t go away overnight,” Simon says. “But when you have a loyal companion who senses your anxiety and helps ground you, it changes everything. These dogs are trained not just to obey, they’re trained to care.” Rescue Dogs Trained To Be PTSD Service Animals For Vets: From Shelter to Service. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms.

Backed by the Veterans Administration

The Veterans Administration recognizes Big Dog Ranch Rescue’s program as a “Non-Traditional and Innovative” form of therapy. Through this recognition, BDRR works closely with the VA to ensure veterans receive comprehensive support while integrating their new service dogs into their daily lives.

Training is provided entirely free of charge for veterans, although those from out of state are required to complete a 21-day on-site training session at the ranch in Florida (which may be spread over several months). Sponsorship opportunities are often available to help offset travel expenses.

Each veteran-dog partnership is unique. BDRR’s professional trainers use positive reinforcement techniques, tailoring each dog’s training to match the veteran’s individual needs and lifestyle. The dogs receive full vaccinations, microchipping, and access to reduced-cost veterinary care during their first year through BDRR’s veterinary healing center. The