Dogs can help treat soldiers with PTSD

More than 7 million Americans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) every year. Many of them are soldiers who have engaged in combat. Rehabilitation facilities can help individuals suffering from the condition, but a furry friend can be motivational as well.

Last week, the first dog trained by a prisoner at the Naval Consolidated Brig Charleston finished schooling, according to the Associated Press. His job is to now serve as a lovable companion to soldiers suffering from PTSD. Experts say that the unconditional loyalty that dogs have toward their owners has proven beneficial to individuals suffering from the condition.

Approximately 240 soldiers from Afghanistan and Iraq are on the waiting list for prisoner-trained assistance dogs. These animals are taught more than 350 tasks and 70 commands to help their owners cope with the emotional and physical struggles of PTSD.

Nearly 200,000 veterans received disability compensation for PTSD in 2005, according to Medicine Net, a statistics site. Between 7 and 8 percent of individuals will develop PTSD in their lifetime. Rehabilitation facilities can teach individuals how to manage the illness, and assistance dogs may be able to further the treatment process.