Having PTSD is hard. Being on constant alert, constantly anxious and going over unpleasant scenarios through your head on repeat is hard. It can be a major challenge to find any source of comfort. I know because my husband suffers from PTSD. As a combat veteran who served two tours of duty in the middle east, he has had his fair share of life-threatening situations to ruminate over. He has born witness to human tragedy and suffering at it’s greatest and I think pieces of that will always be with him. It has been hard for him, to find peace, to find solace. However, one place I know he does find it; is in the eyes of our furry family members.

The benefits on our mental health that animals bring is outstanding and overwhelmingly backed by science. Particularly, dogs are very good for our mental health. It is good, then, that my husband has, in our yellow lab Baldr, a true companion and friend. One of the major benefits of having a dog is that they become in tune with your emotions. Anytime my husband is feeling anxious, our yellow lab can sense it, and is right at my husband’s side and giving kisses.

Another mental health benefit of having dogs is that they improve our level of physical activity. Weather we are taking them for walks, throwing a ball, or playing tug-of-war, dogs help us move more – which is very good for our mental well being. Having dogs, or any other pet for that matter, also gives us people a sense of purpose. For some who are lost in the darkness of depression or other mental health struggles, having a clear and defined purpose can help them feel they have a reason to get out of bed in the morning and a purpose for being.

For veterans, having a dog can offer them companionship and unconditional love. Did you know unconditional love is a basic human need? We cannot live without it. Many veterans, especially those dealing with PTSD, are very isolated. They can have a very difficult time reaching out, engaging in conversation or making friends. It is critical that every human being have companionship, and for veterans in need – dogs can be just that. Dogs can also serve as a starting point for veterans, or others, to meet more people and be an easy conversation point to start off on.

Overall, animals benefit us in many ways and improve our mental health. For those who struggle with complex mental health issues or live with neurological differences,  animals can make a huge difference in their lives.

 

-Alyssa Harrington

Family Violence Prevention Month

Family Violence Prevention Month

Our organization is honored to be trusted in supporting 553 pets escaping family violence. Together we can increase awareness of the warning signs of family violence, resources and supports available in our communities. You can find or share these community...

Working for Parachutes for Pets

Working for Parachutes for Pets

This summer I had the privilege of working with Parachutes for Pets. They do so much to help low income families and seniors in our community. Spreading this kind of kindness is what keeps me going. Knowing that I can impact someone else's life on levels I could never...

A Summer with Parachutes

A Summer with Parachutes

A Summer with Parachutes I have never worked with people as passionate about their cause as Parachutes for Pets. In every interaction, you can tell how much Melissa and everyone on her team care for pets and their owners in need. They work tirelessly to help others...

My Experience With Parachutes For Pets

My Experience With Parachutes For Pets

Generously written by a student from CAREERS program Throughout this summer I have been working with Parachutes For Pets from home. Through the Information, Communication and Technology internship, thanks to a guidance counselor at Our Lady of The Rockies, Mrs. Joanne...

Pet Grief & Loss Information

Pet Grief & Loss Information

Generously written by Mariah McConnell  Pets provide humans with a source of comfort and companionship which means the death or loss of a pet can have serious impacts on owners. Many owners view their pet as a member of their family but will come into contact with...

Double your impact!

Double your impact!

From now until September 17th, we are honouring and celebrating the life of Stella. A beloved dog who brought 14 years of love and laughter to one of our generous donors. After owning, caring for, and loving Stella, our donor learned how essential a pet’s wellness is;...

Stella’s Wellness Tribute

Stella’s Wellness Tribute

We are honoured to share the amazing legacy of Stella in partnership with her beloved owners. The following is a tender testament to Stella by her owners, the donors of Stella’s Wellness Tribute.

Have a pet? Have a plan!

Have a pet? Have a plan!

Sometimes simply loving your pet is not enough. Like most things in life, owning a pet comes with responsibilities and unexpected challenges.  Over the last few months, we have had numerous individuals come to us with newly acquired pets that have no knowledge of the...

XhAle Brew Co.’s Tripawd Penelope NEIPA

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XhAle Brew Co.'s Tripawd Penelope NEIPA launched in March partnered with Parachutes for Pets to pay back the kindness from a gofundme Christina, XhAle's founder, received when her cat lost a leg last year after an incident with a car. Without that kindness from her...