Service Dogs for Veterans in Illinois
Providing Veterans with the Best German Shepherd Service Dogs
For some disabled veterans, being discharged from the military signifies the beginnings of a daunting battle at home. Fortunately, service dogs can provide relief and assist them with many of their special needs. These capable dogs are uniquely suited to make the homes of veterans more disability-friendly because they can be rigorously trained to perform many helpful tasks.
If you are a veteran looking for a service dog in Chicago, Illinois, or nearby areas, understand that they are quite different from the “touchy-feely” dogs you see that are used for emotional support and therapy. Unlike these dogs, which mostly provide value in the form of being cuddle bugs, service dogs are trained to perform essential and specialized tasks for their veteran partners.
Here at Regis Regal German Shepherds, we can get you the perfect service dog according to your own individual needs.
How Veteran Service Dogs Assist Your Day-to-Day Life
One classic example of a veteran service dog at work is a German Shepherd retrieving a dropped object from the floor, a task a disabled vet might have difficulty performing. Service dogs accompany their partners everywhere they go, and other tasks they can perform include:
- Retrieving objects from counters & tables
- Turning light switches on or off
- Pushing automatic elevator buttons
- Standing & bracing for stability during transfer
- Following a command to bark for help
- Fetching a cordless phone in case of an emergency
Pairing hard-working service dogs with their partners helps their humans stay safe, and also allows them to return to a life of independence and dignity. There are also other benefits to consider that are a part of pet ownership. For example, veterans who use service dogs report that they have fewer hospitalizations, less anxiety, depression and numerous other health benefits.
The Ultimate German Shepherd Service Dog
Service dogs are asked to perform complex tasks that require great discipline and considerable intelligence. Although there are various dog breeds that can be fantastic service dogs, German Shepherds are exceptionally suited for this role. German Shepherds are world-class dogs that are renowned for their intelligence and working ability for over a century. This majestic breed’s temperament, obedience, and impeccable characteristics make them a perfect match for veterans and those who suffer from PTSD and anxiety.
What to Know Before Getting a Service Dog
As far as matching with a service dog, one must know that these canines are suited to vets who have a physical disability like hearing loss, MS, or progressive conditions. However, keep in mind that if you are a veteran with impaired vision, you might want to enlist the capabilities of a guide dog.
Additionally, if you live in Illinois and are researching for service dogs it is imperative that you are familiar with the breed. This will help you prepare for the special partnership you will have with your service dog. Adopting from a top German Shepherd breeder such as Regis Regal will ensure your dog will receive the specialized training necessary for your needs.
Achieving Well-Being for PTSD
“Service dogs raise their masters' sense of well-being.” ~ Al Franken
The quote above from a former Minnesota senator is an apt statement to describe service dogs. This particularly relates to veterans who have spent time in war zones and are troubled by Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Veterans with PTSD may often experience night terrors, flashbacks, insomnia, fear, depression, anxiety, and other debilitating effects. Some former Armed Service members discover that their severe PTSD is often resistant to conventional antidepressant treatments. Many vets often experience fear and hopelessness that there is no viable treatment for their traumatic symptoms. That is why our German Shepherd breeders in Illinois are committed to breeding, raising, training, and matching the best German Shepherd to accommodate your special needs.
Service Dogs for PTSD & Anxiety
Less than 40 percent of veterans with PTSD seek treatment and those who do usually face long wait times due to heavy demand. A good solution can come in the form of a wagging tail, four paws, and a cold wet nose.
PTSD Service Dogs are specifically trained to perform tasks to accommodate their master’s anxiety or fear. This can include “The Block” which is when a dog will gently nudge a person away if their master is in a crowded place. That way they are not overwhelmed by their space being invaded.
These intelligent service dogs are adept at tasks such as bracing and picking things off the floor. However, one of a service dog’s biggest assets is that they can help veterans suffering from night terrors.
Regis Regal GSDs are Fit for Duty
The reason that German Shepherds are often illustrated on the logos of organizations that train service dogs. Due to their loyal, intelligent, and obedient nature, they are one of the best service dogs for veterans with or without PTSD.
Located in Spring Grove, IL, Regis Regal is the top German Shepherd breeder in North America. For 30 years, we have offered top-notch service dog training for service dogs. We continually go above and beyond to match the pup to their right partner.
We specialize in breeding, raising, training, and providing service dogs for veterans that suffer from anxiety or PTSD as our way to give back to our Armed Services. We also work closely with charities across the country to ensure that veterans are being matched with their perfect canine partner. Our dogs for special needs and veterans can also be sent to anywhere in the US.
For more information about our service dogs and specialized training program, please contact us at (847) 721-1908 or regisregal@gmail.com .
Veterans We've Helped
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