Lifestyle

Paws for Purple Hearts Arrives in San Antonio to Help Local Veterans

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Tony Maples Photography

 

An organization opened its doors in San Antonio, Texas last month with a mission to help veterans struggling with the aftermath of serving our country. Paws for Purple Hearts teaches Veterans with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) to train service dogs for fellow comrades with combat-related injuries.

Paws for Purple Hearts is dedicated to improving the lives of America’s Warriors facing mobility impairment challenges and trauma-related conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury and military sexual trauma by providing the highest quality service dogs and canine assist therapy programs in which the Warriors themselves actively train the service dogs for their injured comrades.

Dogs as Healers

veteran and dog

Photo: Facebook/Paws for Purple Hearts National Office

It’s long been known that our family pets are good for us. They can reduce stress and anxiety. They can lower blood pressure and increase positive feelings. More recently, scientific studies have shown that the simple act of stroking a dog or gazing into its eyes releases a rush of the brain chemical called oxytocin. This “love” hormone — released in both human and dog — promotes feelings of bonding and well-being. The Paws for Purple Hearts programs are built on this important science.

Warriors Helping Warriors

Paws for Purple Hearts

Photo: Facebook/Paws for Purple Hearts National Office

Since 9/11, about 2.7 million American men and women have bravely served our country.  Nearly half have returned with a service-related disability. A large portion of this group has some level of post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injury, and other serious mental condition. By caring for and training PPH dogs for mobility impaired warriors, those warriors who suffer on the inside receive an important treatment for their war wounds, too.

How You Can Learn More and Volunteer

dog memorial

Photo: Facebook/Paws for Purple Hearts National Office

To learn more about Paws for Purple Hearts check out their website or follow them on Facebook. Additionally, there is a volunteer orientation on October 14 at the new San Antonio location, if you’re interested in working with this fabulous organization. Learn more on their Facebook page.