The Power of Rescued Support Dogs: Bringing Comfort to Wounded Army Veterans During the Holidays

The holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness, and reflection. But for many wounded army veterans, it can also be a time of loneliness, stress, and emotional challenges. As they cope with physical injuries and the invisible scars of war, such as PTSD and anxiety, veterans often find themselves feeling disconnected from the holiday cheer. In recent years, however, rescued support dogs have become a vital source of comfort and healing for these heroes, particularly during the holiday season.

A Growing Need for Emotional Support

Wounded veterans face unique challenges, especially during the holidays, when the pressures of family gatherings and festive expectations can feel overwhelming. The holidays can also trigger difficult memories of time spent away from loved ones during deployments, or of comrades lost in combat. For those living with physical disabilities or the mental health challenges that often follow active duty, the emotional weight of the season can be even heavier.

This is where support dogs come in. Specially trained to assist individuals with physical or psychological challenges, these loyal companions provide more than just practical assistance. They offer unconditional love, companionship, and a sense of security—critical for veterans who may struggle with feelings of isolation or anxiety during this time of year.

The Role of Rescue 22 Dogs

While many support dogs are bred and trained specifically for service, an increasing number of our life-saving animals are being rescued from shelters and trained to assist wounded veterans. Rescuing dogs for this important role not only saves the life of the animal, but it creates a deep bond between our veterans and dogs, as both have overcome hardship and found new purpose together.

Rescue 22 support dogs offer a unique form of comfort to veterans, as their backgrounds often mirror the emotional journey of recovery. These dogs, having faced abandonment or neglect, seem to sense the emotional needs of their human counterparts. Together, they form a powerful team built on trust, mutual understanding, and healing.

How Support Dogs Help Veterans During the Holidays

1. Reducing Anxiety and Stress: The holiday season can heighten feelings of anxiety and stress for veterans who may already be coping with PTSD. Support dogs are trained to recognize signs of distress and respond in ways that calm and comfort their handler. Whether it’s through physical contact, such as leaning or nudging, or creating a sense of presence by staying close, these dogs help veterans feel grounded in moments of overwhelm.

2. Combating Loneliness: For some veterans, the holidays bring a sense of isolation, especially for those who are estranged from family or living alone. A support dog provides constant companionship, offering a source of affection and emotional support during a season that emphasizes connection.

3. Encouraging Social Interaction: Support dogs often serve as bridges to social interaction. Veterans who may find it difficult to engage with others are more likely to open up when their dog is by their side. The presence of a dog can attract positive attention, leading to conversations and a sense of community, whether at holiday gatherings, in public, or even during routine tasks like walking through the neighborhood.

4. Creating Routine and Stability: The structure and responsibility of caring for a support dog offer veterans a healthy routine. During a time when the chaos of holiday events can disrupt daily life, this routine brings stability and purpose. Walking, feeding, and grooming their dog provides a daily rhythm that can ease feelings of uncertainty or depression.

5. Emotional Healing Through Bonding: The bond between a veteran and their support dog is unlike any other. Especially for veterans who may feel misunderstood by others, a Rescue 22 support dog offers a level of empathy and non-judgmental care. This relationship can foster a deep sense of healing, helping veterans move forward in their recovery journey.

The Growing Impact of Support Dog Programs

Organizations across the country including Rescue 22 Foundation are increasingly recognizing the impact that rescued support dogs have on wounded veterans. Our pair rescued dogs with veterans are gaining momentum, particularly around the holidays, when the demand for emotional support increases. We work tirelessly to train dogs with the right temperament and then train them to assist veterans in their daily lives.

The positive outcomes of these pairings are clear: not only do veterans report feeling less anxious and more connected to the world around them, but the dogs themselves thrive in their new roles as trusted companions. For both dog and veteran, it’s a second chance at a fulfilling life.

A Gift That Lasts Beyond the Holidays

While the holidays are often the catalyst for increased awareness of the benefits support dogs bring, the bond between veterans and their rescued companions is one that lasts far beyond the festive season. For many veterans, their support dog becomes a constant source of strength and comfort year-round, making a profound difference in their overall well-being and quality of life.

As we celebrate the holidays, it’s important to remember the wounded veterans who have given so much for their country. Supporting programs that connect these brave individuals with rescued support dogs is not just a holiday gift—it’s a gift of healing, companionship, and hope that can make all the difference in their lives.


If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back this holiday season, consider donating to Rescue 22 Foundation or Purchasing a item from our store. All profit from shop sales go help us continue our mission to train support dogs for our veterans. Your contribution could help create a life-changing partnership for a veteran in need, offering the gift of companionship and healing that lasts far beyond the holidays.