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How Therapy Dogs Help with PTSD

Feb 3, 2025

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can have a profound impact on daily life—causing nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, and difficulty trusting others. While traditional treatments like therapy and medication remain vital, an unexpected ally has emerged in the fight against PTSD: therapy dogs. Research increasingly shows that dogs’ unconditional love, companionship, and calm presence can be powerful factors in managing symptoms.

In this article, we explore how therapy dogs help with PTSD and introduce you to Mac, our very own therapy dog at Hanley Center.

The Unique Bond Between Humans and Dogs

Dogs have been by our side for millennia. Their ability to read human emotions and respond with loyalty and affection makes them excellent therapy companions. For someone living with PTSD, this special bond can ease daily stressors, improve mood, and foster a sense of security. Unlike people, dogs are nonjudgmental; they don’t ask questions or impose expectations. This simple, empathetic presence can be deeply comforting, especially during therapy sessions.

Benefits of Therapy Dogs for PTSD

  • Emotional Support – When PTSD symptoms surface—such as anxiety, sudden panic, or flashbacks—a therapy dog can offer soothing comfort. Their gentle demeanor and attentive nature help ground individuals in the present moment, making overwhelming emotions more manageable.
  • Reduction in Stress and Anxiety – Studies show that petting a dog can lower cortisol levels (a stress hormone) and increase oxytocin (a “feel-good” hormone). For someone with PTSD, these hormonal changes can significantly alleviate stress, anxiety, and hypervigilance.
  • Creating Routine and Responsibility – Caring for a therapy dog often involves set routines like feeding times and walks. This structure can be particularly helpful for individuals with PTSD, who may struggle with consistency in daily life. A regular schedule encourages healthy habits and goal-setting.
  • Enhanced Social Interaction – Dogs naturally draw people in, encouraging social interaction and conversation. For individuals experiencing isolation or avoidance behaviors due to PTSD, a therapy dog can act as an icebreaker—reducing the fear of engaging with others and helping rebuild self-confidence.
  • Grounding and Mindfulness – Dogs live in the moment. By observing how a therapy dog stays attuned to present surroundings, individuals can practice mindfulness, a therapeutic technique shown to help regulate emotions. Mindful engagement with a therapy dog can break cycles of rumination and worry that often accompany PTSD.
Steve Campana, Firefighter/Paramedic, Ret. and Hanley Center, First Responder Liaison and Mac, Hanley's Therapy Dog

Mac and handler, Steve Campana, Firefighter/Paramedic, Ret. and Hanley Center First Responder Liaison and Alum.

Meet Mac, Hanley Center’s Beloved Therapy Dog

At Hanley Center, we believe that holistic, compassionate care is crucial to healing from PTSD and co-occurring disorders. This is why we’re thrilled to have Mac, our resident therapy dog, as an essential part of our treatment team.

Mac’s Role at Hanley Center

  • Regular Visits: Mac visits group and individual therapy sessions, creating a comforting atmosphere that helps participants feel at ease.
  • Companionship During Treatment: Patients often find it easier to open up about difficult emotions when Mac is present, providing a sense of safety and warmth.
  • Stress Relief: Between treatment sessions, a few minutes of playtime with Mac can reduce tension, boost mood, and help patients refocus.

How Therapy Dogs Help Foster Healing

  • Encouraging Connection: Many individuals with PTSD struggle with trust. Mac’s gentle, nonjudgmental presence helps them rebuild trust and practice bonding in a safe, supportive setting.
  • Offering Emotional Support: When PTSD symptoms flare, Mac provides grounding, reminding patients they are not alone and can overcome moments of panic or distress.
  • Promoting Self-Care: Mac’s needs—brief walks, brushing, and feeding—reinforce the importance of self-care and responsibility, both key components in long-term recovery.

Integrating Therapy Dogs into Recovery

Therapy dogs like Mac are one part of a well-rounded approach to treatment for PTSD. At Hanley Center, patients receive evidence-based therapies—such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, and group counseling—alongside holistic modalities, including mindfulness practices, art therapy, and stress management techniques. Adding a therapy dog to this continuum of care helps create a more welcoming, empathetic environment that fosters true healing.

Take the Next Step

If you or someone you care about is living with PTSD, substance use disorder, or other mental health challenges, we encourage you to reach out. Mac and the dedicated team at Hanley Center are here to help you navigate a path toward recovery. From personalized treatment plans to aftercare support, we’re committed to giving you the tools you need to reclaim your life and well-being.

Your healing journey is important—and you don’t have to face it alone. Call us today to learn how Hanley Center’s comprehensive programs, therapy dog visits, and compassionate care can support you in finding hope and lasting relief from addiction and PTSD.

Hanley Center has been helping people all over the country achieve wellness for more than 40 years. In addition to providing age- and gender-specific treatment for substance use and co-occurring disorders, Hanley offers a Patriots Program for first responders and veterans, a program specifically for pregnant women, and a boutique residential mental health program for adults. For information on our programs, call us today: 561-841-1033.

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