Puppy power: Devon volunteers needed to help change veterans’ lives
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
A Devon charity is urgently appealing for volunteers to help raise assistance puppies that will go on to support military veterans facing serious mental health challenges.
Veterans With Dogs is calling for “puppy socialisers” to play a vital role in preparing young dogs for their future as highly trained assistance companions.
The charity works with former members of the armed forces who are living with conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression, pairing them with specially trained dogs that can help restore independence and confidence.
Each dog’s journey begins in the home of a volunteer. Puppy socialisers care for the dogs during their early months, introducing them to everyday life including walks, shopping trips, cafés, car travel and public transport. These experiences are essential in helping the puppies develop into calm, adaptable and loyal companions.
Hilary, who volunteers as a puppy socialiser, said she was inspired to get involved after hearing about the impact an assistance dog had on a veteran’s family.
“When I heard about the difference one of these dogs made, including a child saying they felt like they had their dad back, I knew I wanted to be involved,” she said. “Being a puppy socialiser means you’re helping create that kind of life-changing partnership.”
Once fully trained, the dogs are able to detect signs of distress, interrupt anxiety or panic episodes, and provide grounding support. For many veterans, this can be the difference between isolation and re-engaging with daily life.
Sally Williams, an Army veteran and chair of trustees at the charity, said volunteers are at the heart of the programme.
“Every assistance dog begins with a volunteer,” she said. “Puppy socialisers play an incredibly important role in helping these dogs grow into calm, confident companions who will go on to support veterans facing very real mental health challenges.”
She added that although the charity has secured funding to support its work, a shortage of volunteers is limiting how many puppies can enter the programme.
“Without vital puppy socialisers, we cannot bring new dogs into training. We desperately need more people to come forward and help.”
The charity provides full support to volunteers, including guidance throughout the process and veterinary care for the puppies.
Those interested in becoming a puppy socialiser can find out more by visiting the Veterans With Dogs website at : www.veteranswithdogs.org.uk
( Photos: Courtesy of Veterans With Dogs 📸 )