Sussex military veterans with PTSD will receive ‘life-changing’ support from support dogs
Leonard T. Koonce
2 min read
MILITARY veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder are to receive “life-changing” support from service dogs after more funding is secured.
Service Dogs UK has received £24,000 to train dogs to help veterans, living in West Sussex, who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The charity matches rescue dogs with former military and emergency service personnel struggling to cope with civilian life.
Service Dogs UK has been awarded £24,000 to train dogs to help veterans living in West Sussex
Gary Botterill, the charity’s chief operating officer, said he would now be in a better position to meet demand for his services.
He said: “It is vital that we can increase our ‘production’ so that we can help even more veterans.
“Without the support of the Veterans Foundation, this would not be possible. Without this funding, we would have had to turn veterans away from our organization because we wouldn’t have the capacity to hire them.
Dan and Kodi
Funding was provided to the charity by the Veterans Foundation, which raises money through donations and the Veterans Lottery.
Garry said he was grateful for the support of the Veterans Foundation to help the charity bring hope and comfort to those who are struggling.
He said: “We know what we are doing works and that we can ‘change lives two at a time’, but this grant ensures that we can support more people who need our help,” he said. he explains.
“We are thrilled and grateful to receive this grant from the Veterans Foundation and everyone who plays the Veterans Lottery, they are making a real difference to veterans who need our help and support.”
Service Dogs UK selects dogs from rescue centers before training, assessing and matching them with a veteran with PTSD – an anxiety disorder caused by very stressful, frightening or upsetting events.
Once matched, they are placed in a free program that lasts between nine and 12 months, where they work with their new best friend to earn service dog certification.
Dogs are trained to recognize stress triggers and provide companionship and support in coping with civilian life.
To find out more about Service Dogs UK and their incredible work, visit https://www.servicedogsuk.org.
