When Shari Duval’s son returned from his deployment in Iraq, he began to struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), leaving Duval unsure of how to assist him. The only moments when he was truly himself were those spent with his dog.
This realization propelled Duval to embark on a new mission: training dogs from shelters to become service animals for veterans facing military-related trauma. Her objective was clear; she aimed to help veterans regain control of their lives, much like her son, while also combating the alarming rates of suicide among veterans—an overarching aim of K9 For Warriors.
K9 For Warriors not only focuses on the rehabilitation of veterans but also extends its support to rescue animals. Approximately 70 percent of the dogs trained in their program come from high-kill shelters, saving these animals, who in turn help save human lives.
Research indicates that, alongside traditional treatments, service dogs lead to significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, including decreased depression, improved quality of life, and enhanced social functioning.
CEO Carl Cricco explains: “Because most of our dogs are rescues, the K9 Warrior program fosters a deep connection that aids both the veterans and the dogs in their healing process.”
Training a dog typically takes about four to six months, followed by a three-week period during which the veteran and the dog bond and participate in training together. Cricco mentions that “rescuing, training, and matching a service dog with a veteran incurs an approximate cost of $30,000, but we do not charge the veteran for this. Our operations depend entirely on the generosity of donors who support our mission.”
Project Street Vet
People living on the streets face numerous hardships, yet those who have pets often find solace in their companions, developing exceptionally strong bonds.
Research published in the Journal of Preventive Veterinary Medicine shows that “homeless pet owners exhibit lower levels of depression compared to those without pets.”
Residing in Southern California, veterinarian Dr. Kwane Stewart recognized the challenges faced by the homeless when it came to accessing veterinary care. For many years, he dedicated his spare time to provide basic services to those in need, offering brief check-ups, medications, and food for pets: “While it may not seem like much, sometimes a small gesture can vastly improve someone’s situation.”
To amplify his efforts, Stewart established Project Street Vet, which brings together veterinary teams and volunteers from across California and beyond. With teams now active in locations from San Diego to San Francisco, and even in regions like Georgia and Florida, their ultimate aim is to ensure that both people and their pets can remain together and healthy.
This article was originally published in the January-February 2024 issue of TheWindowsClub magazine (US edition).
