Service dogs are more than man’s best friend. They’re actual lifesavers — animals specifically-trained to care for people with disabilities, a range of which almost too overwhelming to list. Because it doesn’t stop with just physical, rather, the dogs are highly-successful at treating psychological ailments, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) certainly being one (depression, nightmares and social anxiety).
When you get to see a glimpse of these pups’ personality, showcasing their steadfastness and patience, it suddenly makes sense why they’re so effective at what they do. And why disabled military veterans cherish their company in ways that are so powerful and vital, many of them can’t articulate the bond with words alone.
The following photograph, taken by a Twitter user after he parents sent her the shot while they strolled around Disneyland in California, is a representative peak into the lives of the canines that care for so many vets across the country.
https://twitter.com/cutiechaser_/status/786991700698816512
According to BuzzFeed, the dog’s name is Yahoo, and he’s a service dog in training for the nonprofit organization Canine Companions for Independence. They offer these wonderful pooches to people with disabilities for no cost at all.
A spokesperson for the org said that the trainer took him to the crowded amusement park to practice being around large groups of people and handle “high levels of distractions.” The caricature however? That was meant to teach him the art of being stoic.
Yahoo is also being taught how to pull a wheelchair, flick on a light switch and even open a door.