How to treat canine PTSD?

Therapy dogs can offer soothing comfort when PTSD symptoms surface—such as anxiety, sudden panic, or flashbacks. Their gentle demeanor and attentive nature help ground individuals in the present moment, making overwhelming emotions more manageable. Caring for a therapy dog often involves set routines like feeding times and walks, which 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. By observing how a therapy dog stays attuned to present surroundings, individuals can practice mindfulness, a therapeutic technique shown to help regulate emotions. Mac visits group and individual therapy sessions, creating a comforting atmosphere that helps participants feel at ease. Patients often find it easier to open up about difficult emotions when Mac is present, providing a sense of safety and warmth. Between treatment sessions, a few minutes of playtime with Mac can reduce tension, boost mood, and help patients refocus. 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.

Pet owners who suspect their furry friend may be suffering from this condition should ideally seek help from a veterinary behavioralist, who will develop an appropriate treatment plan. The best ways to manage PTSD in dogs will be a combination of behavioral therapy and medication. Behavioral management might include desensitization therapy, in which a dog is exposed to low levels of stress, and then this level is gradually increased to build tolerance for that stimulus, playtime with a well-socialized dog, increased exercise, and mental stimulation. Medications prescribed could include anxiolytics, anti-depressants, or beta-blockers. Teller adds that time and patience are vital to the management of canine PTSD. Owners will need to actively work with their dog on a daily basis and be in regular communication with their veterinary team. If access to a veterinary behavioralist is not possible, your primary veterinarian will still be able to help your dog get the care they need. Pet owners seeking this care may wish to reference the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior’s directory.

A type of behavioral training called systematic desensitization is common for dogs with PTSD. It exposes your dog to whatever it is that brings on their anxiety or fear. If noise is the trigger, your dog will hear the noise very quietly at first and get a treat for good behavior. The noise will slowly get louder and the treats will keep coming, as long as they stay calm. The goal is to get your dog to associate the trigger with treats, not trauma. Other important parts of PTSD treatment include daily exercise, play sessions, and positive reinforcement training. Training could take weeks or years. It may not cure the PTSD, but it could help your dog live a healthy, happy life, so long as you limit their exposure to the things that trigger a stressful episode. Just because a dog doesn’t have PTSD doesn’t mean their behavior isn’t difficult for the owner and potentially dangerous to others. Don’t offer comfort, like soothing words, pets, or kisses. Instead, they tell them it’s OK to act afraid or aggressive. The best way to work through fear and anxiety, Ignore the problem and do something else with them.