I am an Army Veteran who has struggled with PTSD and TBI (traumatic brain injury) for a very long time. I have been through numerous treatments for my PTSD that really didn’t make any significant changes. I did some research and always came across articles about service dogs for veterans with PTSD. I talked it over with my psychiatrist and we agreed to try it. Forward to a year later, she had to do a write up to the D.C office for the VA to get Pretzel covered for pet insurance through the VA. She wrote a detailed letter outlining the significant improved changes she has seen in me because of having Pretzel.
Pretzel has given me strength to face fears that my PTSD had controlled in my life for decades. For example, not going into crowded public places. Pretzel is my Chewbacca. Like Chewbacca, he is a highly trained warrior; loyal, intelligent, a great side kick and cares for his family and friends. June 2019 I received Pretzel and within a year I went from an anti-social person to a person who has helped NHSDI by volunteering for tradeshows, transporting dogs, helped raise two Labs, Humvee and Dior, as well as other things. Thank you New Horizons Service Dogs for everything.
