PTSD Assistance Dogs research trial

DVA funded a four-year research trial through La Trobe University, in partnership with the Centre for Service and Therapy Dogs Australia (CSTDA), to provide detailed guidance and evidence to support best practice in the use of psychiatric assistance dogs for veterans with PTSD. Evolution Research were engaged to conduct the independent evaluation of the Trial.

The Trial’s objective was to train, allocate and monitor assistance dogs as an adjunct to evidence-based treatment for veterans with PTSD, to determine the following outcomes: 

• the clinical utility of using specifically-trained assistance dogs as an adjunct to evidence-based treatment for PTSD in a veteran population; 
• the benefits of specifically-trained assistance dogs used by veterans with PTSD in decreasing related caregiver burden; and 
• the key barriers and enablers for a possible future broader implementation of an assistance dog program of the type conducted under the Trial. 

The Trial evaluated the life experiences of 20 veterans with a diagnosis of PTSD through their journey of being paired with a specifically trained assistance dog. The veteran’s journey commenced at the time of recruitment and initial assessment, involvement in a comprehensive training program and matching of a dog to meet their unique needs. Following completion of the training program and preparedness the veteran received handover of their dog to live with them full time. 

Of the 20 veterans recruited, a total of 17 completed the Trial on 30 June 2022 and continue to live with their dog. The three veterans that did not complete the Trial voluntarily withdrew due to personal circumstances. Exit interviews to capture their experiences were conducted and noted in the evaluation report.

The Trial was successful in meeting its objectives and the evaluation findings and recommendations are being considered by DVA’s Psychiatric Assistance Dog Program for opportunities to enhance delivery of the Program.

The following comments were captured from trial participants and support persons during the evaluation and are included in the report

“I can’t express enough how much this program has been of benefit. I have little doubt that my service dog has saved my life” – Veteran John
“My wife says she “has the old me back”, my parents have commented on the change the dog has had on me, with comments such as…”we haven’t seen this bloke in 20yrs” – Veteran Brian

“I have more freedoms to do things that I like without feeling guilty or worrying about my husband. I cannot thank them enough for their dedication, patience and care shown to not only my husband but our entire family” - Support Person Jenny

“Conversations about difficult subjects have become approachable and easier. Our communication has improved in all aspects of our life” – Support Person Susan