A Qualitative Exploration of the Use of Service Dogs in Veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury

Objective This qualitative research was conducted to add to the body of knowledge that supports the benefits of service dogs (SDs), as a tertiary treatment modality, to veterans with post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and/or traumatic brain injury (TBI). Methods This grounded theory research design utilized open‐ended, semi‐structured interviews with veterans (n = 10) who were using SDs as a treatment modality for PTSD and/or TBI. Transcripts were analyzed using NVivo qualitative software until data saturation was achieved. Results Results from the data analysis identified 4 major themes with concurrent subthemes. The most prominent themes were functional status, impact of a SD, recognition of symptoms of PTSD and/or TBI by the SD, and barriers and challenges to the acquisition of a SD. Participants reported that the SD increased socialization and was a positive adjunct to treatment modalities for PTSD and/or TBI. Conclusions Our study highlights the benefits of using a SD as a tertiary treatment for PTSD and/or TBI in veterans. Veterans in our study articulated the benefits of using a SD as a tertiary treatment option, and the need to make this a standard treatment option for all veterans who suffer from PTSD and/or TBI. Highlights In post 9–11 veterans, symptoms of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) have a significant impact on mental health functioning and can have adverse effects on reintegration and overall quality of life. Our qualitative research explores the use of service dogs (SDs) as a form of tertiary treatment for PTSD and TBI in veterans post 9–11. Our grounded theory describes the relationships between four prominent themes: Functional Status, Impact of an SD, Recognition and Diagnosis of PTSD and TBI, and Barriers and Challenges of SD Acquisition. Veterans face a multitude of complex challenges in managing PTSD/TBI, however, participants described an enormous contribution to functional status and overall well‐being while utilizing their SDs.