Veterans Served by Wounded Warrior Project Share Their Service Dog Stories

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Sept. 30, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Dogs are well-known as "man's best friend," but for some of America's service members, the bond goes much deeper. In celebration of National Dog Week, wounded veterans served by Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) shared their stories about their service dogs, how the dogs have helped them cope with the visible and invisible wounds of war, and some tips for owning a service dog.

Army veteran Dozer Reed and his service dog, Leyna

How does your service dog assist you?  
"My dog Leyna helps me on multiple fronts. For my mobility issues, she's acceptably defiant when she feels I am doing something I shouldn't. That happens frequently. She will bark to alert my family if my back locks up and I need assistance. For the other issues, she wakes me up when I'm having nightmares. She keeps a barrier around me in crowds or when walking. She distracts me when I get emotional or start to feel anxiety. Like any great dog, she loves me unconditionally. When I'm having a down day, she will cheer me up and get me back on that logical thought process. She's not great at talking, but that means she never lends her opinion unsolicited. On the flip side, she's a great listener."

Army veteran Angela Peacock and her service dog, GI Joe

What's the best way to discipline a dog?
"Positive reinforcement is by far the best way to discipline a dog. Dogs who are praised for the behavior the owner does want instead of being punished for bad behavior is the best way. When dogs know they will get a toy, treats, or love, they will do anything for you."

To read the rest of their stories, visit: https://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org/warrior-stories-and-more-features.

About Wounded Warrior Project
Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) connects, serves, and empowers wounded warriors. Read more at https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/mission.

SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project