Paw and stripes is a program still in its infancy stage but it is catching on quickly. It was started right here, near my home, in Rio Rancho, New Mexico.
It began earlier this year when a chance meeting brought together a veteran of the Iraq war and a local dog trainer. These dogs are not only trained to help veterans that are now adjusting to a life as a regular citizen, these dogs are also helping military personnel that are currently in active duty but stationed state side.
These dogs are trained to help these soldiers deal with PTSD – post traumatic stress disorder and to help them lead a normal life. The dogs are trained to be in tune with their partner and to recognize signs that preclude a seizure, anxiety attack or similar episode. They are trained to alert their handler and then offer a way to stabilize this anxiety. Sometimes this is accomplished simply by a behavior the dog will display that distracts and interrupts the episode the veteran was about to experience.
What makes this organization stand out from other therapy dog groups, is their ability to keep their costs down which in turn makes the program more affordable and in most cases, free to these veterans.
Their training method is also quite different from most therapy dog organizations.
They acquire these dogs through rescued dog organizations or local shelters. The dogs are screened and evaluated to see if they have the temperament to handle the job and the ability to handle the training. This is not only a way to save money but is also a way to rescue valuable and precious dogs. In some cases the soldier may even use their own dog if they meet the minimum requirements.
The other way money is saved is the way the training is accomplished. Instead of having a future therapy dog trained with the professionals, the professional teaches the dog owner the methods to do the training themselves. They work with the client as well as the dog simultaneously.
Due to these new and unorthodox methods, they have been able to keep the average cost down to $1,800 which is covered by donations, fundraisers, and other means. When compared to the average price tag of $10,000 for a trained service dog, you can see how this program can reach many more people by keeping it affordable to all veterans.
The great news is the program is catching on and the group is growing. Hopefully, this will inspire others around the country to begin similar worthwhile projects.
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