Evaluating how service dogs help military Veterans with PTSD
Multi-site, longitudinal trial evaluating the efficacy, mechanisms, and moderators of service dogs for military Veterans with PTSD
This study is looking at how well trained service dogs can help military Veterans with PTSD feel better and improve their daily lives, and it will follow participants over time to see who benefits the most from having a service dog.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10900817 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of trained service dogs in alleviating PTSD symptoms among military Veterans. It aims to understand the long-term benefits and mechanisms behind the use of service dogs, focusing on how they can improve mental health and psychosocial functioning. The study will involve multiple sites and will track participants over time to gather comprehensive data on their experiences and outcomes. By analyzing various factors, the research seeks to identify which Veterans may benefit the most from having a service dog.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are military Veterans diagnosed with PTSD, particularly those who may also have other mental health conditions.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have PTSD or related mental health issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide valuable insights into how service dogs can significantly improve the quality of life for Veterans suffering from PTSD.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results regarding the use of service dogs for PTSD, but this study aims to explore the long-term effects and underlying mechanisms, making it a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Tucson, United States
- University of Arizona — Tucson, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'haire, Marguerite Elizabeth — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: O'haire, Marguerite Elizabeth
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.