By SGT. Clay Rankin, AW2 Soldier
I injured my lower back in Iraq in 2003 during combat operations; I also suffer from PTSD from my war experiences. My disabilities significantly limited my ability to live independently; I became more and more dependant upon my wife and children to live day to day. I began looking for ways to regain my independence and was referred to Patriot Paws in August 2006, to explore the possibility of having a service dog to assist me in doing day to day activities.
My service dog, Archie, actually picked me and our relationship is a partnership. We take care of each other. Archie does everything from pulling a grocery cart, carrying shopping bags from the car, opening bedroom drawers, and picking up my fallen cane. He even opens the refrigerator and retrieves requested items from the bottom shelf. Although Archie was trained as a physically handicap assistance dog, specific to my needs, the added unintended benefit was that Archie also senses and responds to my PTSD symptoms to assist me to remain grounded in reality.
Any soldier who deals with PTSD or a serious physical injury knows the fear of the unknown, the what if’s, that cause us not to go out into public alone because were not sure what we will do if we fall down and can’t get up on our own, or what we will do if we have a flash back or if someone does something that causes us to perceive something to be a threat even though in reality it may not be. Archie has allowed me to regain the confidence to go out into public again without having to wait until my wife or son can go with me. Archie will not only help me with various physical needs that I have, he also senses my increased anxiety, flashback episodes and stressors. Archie alerts to changes in my chemistry and alerts me by rubbing up against me, punching me with his nose or even pawing at me until I snap out of it and pay attention to him. If someone unknowingly approaches me from the rear Archie will place himself between me and the person, alerting me to their presence and causing the person to stop or slow their approach.
The physical and mental pain persists. But with Archie, the going isn't as rough.
For more information about the Patriot Paws, call 972-772-3282 or go to www.patriotpaws.org
Here is a photo of me and Archie:
