Wayne Simanovich - April 6 2024

Protection Dogs are Not Just for Protection

Protection dogs, also known as service dogs or assistance dogs, can be highly beneficial for a variety of individuals in need of specialized support and companionship..
Here are a few more types of people who can benefit from having a protection dog in their life:

Individuals with PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)

For veterans or civilians who have experienced trauma, protection dogs can offer emotional support, provide a sense of security, and help mitigate symptoms of anxiety and hypervigilance. These dogs are trained to recognize signs of distress and intervene to comfort their handler. They can offer calming cues, such as nudging or leaning against their handler, to help alleviate anxiety when needed most. What is even more important for people with PTSD is that they can suffer flashbacks that can be very emotionally unsettling. Protection Dogs will act as “grounders” during these episodes so that the individual who is having a moment of traumatic dissociation can be brought back to the present moment in a calm and safe manner.

People with physical disabilities

Protection dogs can be trained to assist individuals with mobility impairments, such as those who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility. These dogs can retrieve items, open doors, and provide stability and balance support when walking. Those with a physical disability can go about their daily life with greater ease when they have a protection dog.

Individuals with medical conditions

Some protection dogs are trained to detect changes in their handler's body odor or behavior, signaling the onset of medical issues such as seizures, diabetes, or allergic reactions. They can alert their handler or caregivers to take necessary precautions or seek medical assistance.

Children with developmental disorders

Apart from autism, protection dogs can also benefit children with conditions like ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) or Down syndrome. These dogs can provide comfort, companionship and help in improving social skills and emotional regulation. With autism in particular, children may struggle with changes or transitions. Therefore, the presence of a well-trained protection dog can provide a sense of stability and consistency in the child's daily life, helping them feel more secure and at ease. Another area where protection dogs play a role is in sensory regulation. Many children with autism experience extreme sensory sensitivities and challenges. Protection dogs can be trained to recognize signs of sensory overload or distress in their handlers and provide calming sensory input, such as gentle pressure or deep pressure therapy, to help regulate the child’s sensory systems and reduce anxiety.

Elderly individuals

As of January 2022, approximately 28% of adults aged 65 and older in the United States live alone, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. For seniors living alone or those with limited mobility, a protection dog can offer companionship, assistance with daily tasks, and above anything else security. Many elderly individuals experience feelings of loneliness or isolation, especially if they have limited social interactions. Protection dogs offer constant companionship and emotional support, providing comfort, affection, and a sense of purpose. In addition, These dogs can also help prevent falls or accidents by providing stability and physical support when walking, getting into bed and performing light daily household tasks.

Victims of domestic violence

According to the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS) conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 4 women (24.3%) and 1 in 9 men (11.5%) have experienced severe partner physical violence or intimate partner stalking with impacts such as injury, fearfulness, or post-traumatic stress disorder during their lifetime. Protection dogs can play a crucial role in providing security and emotional support to survivors of such domestic abuse. They can help alleviate fear and anxiety, provide a sense of safety, and empower individuals to rebuild their lives.

People with psychiatric disorders

Individuals with conditions such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or depression can benefit from the companionship provided by a protection dog. These dogs can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation and provide a sense of purpose and responsibility. In ways similar to children with autism or ADHD, protection dogs are strong emotional rocks that support the social, emotional, and practical needs of those with psychiatric disorders, enhancing their quality of life and promoting their overall well-being.

IN SUMMARY

Overall, protection dogs can offer a wide range of benefits beyond physical protection, including emotional support, companionship, and assistance with daily tasks, making them valuable companions for individuals facing various challenges in their lives.

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