“Quality of life” often feels like an impossible dream for the countless veterans who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). One non-profit – Northwest Battle Buddies – is helping these veterans reclaim their purpose and independence one furry friend at a time.
“According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, an estimated 20 veterans commit suicide each day; our goal at Northwest Battle Buddies is to eradicate veteran suicide and promote mental well-being,” explains Shannon Walker, who founded the organization in 2012.
To date, Northwest Battle Buddies (NWBB) has paired more than 270 working teams of service dogs and veterans.
A Personal Mission
Walker’s commitment stems from a deeply personal connection to her father, a U.S. Air Force veteran. His experiences became the catalyst for her dedication to making a difference.
“NWBB was founded from a heartfelt desire to address the unique challenges that veterans face,” she continues. “My extensive experience as a dog trainer... led me to discover how dogs are specially equipped to help humans in their times of need. I knew that matching veterans with service dogs... would promote a renewed sense of purpose and belonging.”
The Role of a Service Dog
NWBB focuses on leveraging the exceptional bond between humans and canines to address PTSD. Each dog receives five months of intensive training, and each veteran/dog team receives an additional 160 hours of training together. Many dogs are rescued from shelters and are trained to assist their handlers in specific ways, including:
- Wake their veteran from nightmares
- Interrupt anxiety attacks
- Redirect flashbacks
- Alert on adrenaline
- Provide a social barrier in public
- Perform pressure therapy
- Provide a constant feeling of safety
“Our service dogs empower veterans by boosting their confidence and independence, making life more accessible and comfortable,” Walker comments. “They enable veterans to reengage in activities and experiences previously considered out of reach.”
Breaking Down Barriers
Walker notes that many veterans are reluctant to admit they need assistance due to stigma. By creating safe spaces and fostering a supportive environment, NWBB encourages veterans to seek the assistance they need without fear of judgment.
“There is no cure for PTSD; however, with a canine Battle Buddy by their side, veterans with PTSD can reduce their symptoms with life-changing results,” she explains.
How You Can Help
NWBB is supported entirely through donations. Community involvement is crucial to their mission. Here are some ways to help:
- Join Operation Never Quit: Pledge $22+ monthly to provide a service dog to a veteran.
- Puppy Foster Program: Provide a loving home for a future service dog for up to 12 months.
- Become a Sponsor: Partner with NWBB to help provide resources and support.
- Host a Fundraiser: Create a custom fundraising page for an event, memorial, or registry.
- Request a Speaker: Educate and inspire audiences by sharing the stories of veteran teams.
- Attend the Annual Freedom Gala: A night featuring veteran teams, guest speakers, and a puppy brigade.
- Donate from the Wish List: Purchase needed items like food, beds, and toys directly from the NWBB Amazon Wish List.
The journey begins the moment a veteran meets their dog. The walls start to come down, and they truly begin to hope again.
“My plea to veterans is this: ‘Never quit, never give up,’” Walker declares. “It is my hope that the day before a veteran meets their service dog is their last worst day…and the day they meet their service dog it is their best first day.”
For more information, please visit their website at northwestbattlebuddies.org.