Groundbreaking Research on the Life-Changing Impact of Assistance Dogs for Veterans

EXETER, U.K. - April 15, 2025 - PRLog -- Veterans With Dogs, the UK's pioneering charity dedicated to training and providing assistance dogs for current and former members of the British Armed Forces, proudly marks a decade of transformative research into the impact of assistance dogs on veterans' mental health and wellbeing.

Over the past ten years, Veterans With Dogs has led the way in evidence-based practice, demonstrating that highly trained assistance dogs are not just companions, but vital partners in recovery for veterans living with complex mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. The charity's unique PALS™ (Partner Animal Life Skills) programme has set a new standard for how assistance dogs are integrated into veterans' lives, offering a holistic approach that goes far beyond traditional models.

Key Findings from a Decade of Research:

• 94% of PALS™ Veterans maintained clinically significant PTSD symptom reduction at the decade mark, a testament to the enduring impact of the assistance dog partnership.
• Within just six months of partnership, 94% of veterans reported improved mental health, and 40% reduced their reliance on medication.
• 82% of veterans experienced a reduction in PTSD symptoms, with many reporting increased confidence, independence, and a renewed sense of purpose.
• The research also highlights that 75% of veterans developed a greater sense of fulfilment and purpose through their partnership with an assistance dog.

Craig MacLellan, CEO and founder of Veterans With Dogs, commented:

"A decade ago, the idea that an assistance dog could be a lifeline for veterans with 'invisible injuries' was still met with scepticism. Today, our research leaves no doubt: these partnerships are not only life-changing, but life-saving. The PALS™ programme is about more than training dogs; it's about restoring hope, dignity, and independence to those who have served our country."

A Call to Action

Despite the overwhelming evidence of success, the need for qualified assistance dogs remains high. Veterans With Dogs calls on supporters, policymakers, and the wider public to help expand access to these life-changing partnerships.

For more information, to access the full research report, or to support the charity's work, visit veteranswithdogs.org.uk (https://veteranswithdogs.org.uk/research/a-decade-of-tran...).

Media Contact:
Ann Bryant
Veterans With Dogs
ann.bryant@veteranswithdogs.co.uk
07801 422159

Notes to Editors:

• Veterans With Dogs' research is the most comprehensive of its kind in the UK, focusing exclusively on the impact of assistance dogs for veterans with mental health conditions.
• The PALS™ programme is accredited and recognised for its rigorous standards and veteran-centred approach.
• Case studies and interviews with veterans and trainers are available upon request.