PAWS for Hope and Understanding: service dogs for veterans

“The world would be a nicer place if everyone had the ability to love as unconditionally as a dog” - M.K. Clinton 

Since World War I, dogs have always accompanied Australians to war, whether as mascots, messengers, scouts, guards or comforting companions. Dogs have served our nation with courage, bravery, valour and enduring loyalty, saving the lives of countless military personnel and civilians. Beyond the battlefields, they also play a crucial role as service animals, supporting veterans who are experiencing mental health issues. 

In this talk, guest speaker Bill Marklew OAM from PAWs for Hope and Understanding will explore the long history of dogs in the ADF. He will also share how PAWs, a not-for-profit organisation, is providing ex-defence personnel with task-trained service dogs that offer unwavering support for those navigating the challenges of mental health, specialising in PTSD. PAWs trains dogs to perform a range of life-enhancing tasks, from fetching objects to alerting and alleviating medical episodes, allowing veterans to reclaim their independence and find comfort in adversity. For Bill, a Vietnam veteran, the work of this program is especially important: 

“I served in the Army (Infantry) for 24 years, with a diagnosis of PTSD, and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Raven, my angel with paws, settles me during nightmares or panic attacks by putting her paws on my shoulder and sits across my lap until the panic subsides. Without her I may not be here. She has made such a difference in my life.” 

Since 2015, PAWs has successfully placed 118 'angels with paws' to worthy veterans and assisted 2536 veterans with disability claims. 

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