A trial of assistance dogs for military veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is showing positive signs according to Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel, Darren Chester.
“The first group of dogs have been living with their foster families for the past three months, and are undertaking weekly training over a 12-month period,” Mr Chester said.
“Participating veterans are also undergoing training on how to become handlers of psychiatric assistance dogs over that time.”
He said he was confident this approach to supporting veterans with PTSD would make a meaningful difference to their lives.
“Supporting this trial is just one step this Government is taking to put veterans and their families first, and more than $230 million a year is being invested in supporting the mental health of veterans,” Mr Chester said.
La Trobe University Professor, Pauleen Bennett said the university was now seeking veterans to take part in the second cohort of the assistance dog trial.
“A new group of puppies will soon join the second cohort of the trial, and therefore we are seeking veterans living in the Melbourne area who are being treated for the management of clinically diagnosed PTSD to take part in this next phase,” Professor Bennett said.
“The trial is a comprehensive process that takes into account the specific needs of the participating veteran, such as determining the most appropriate breed and temperament of dog to support the veteran’s mental health needs, and the bonding process between the dog and participant.”
She expected the dogs would improve the veterans’ sleep quality, as well as confidence to socialise with others in their community and engage in everyday life.
