In a heartwarming story out of Texas, veteran Jake Thompson and his loyal service dog Bella have found their place at a local Lowe’s store. After serving three tours and sustaining injuries that led to his retirement from the military, Jake was eager to rejoin the workforce. However, he faced a unique challenge: finding a job that would allow him to work alongside Bella, his trained service companion.
“During the interview process, Jake stood out as a candidate. He arrived with Bella by his side, and it was clear they were a package deal,” shared Mark Johnson, the store manager, in an interview with a local news outlet. Their presence at the store has been a hit among customers, with Bella’s cheerful demeanor winning hearts. One customer, Lisa Martin, posted a photo of the duo on her social media, exclaiming, “I love seeing veterans like Jake getting support. Kudos to Lowe’s for hiring them both!”
For Jake, this job represents more than just a paycheck; it’s a chance to get back into a routine he cherishes. “Sitting at home isn’t for me. I thrive on being active and helping others,” he remarked. The dynamic duo has been part of the Lowe’s team for over two months, and they are also training another service dog together.
Jake explained how Bella has been a crucial part of his life, especially when dealing with the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Many veterans experience this condition after facing traumatic situations during service. The statistics are staggering, with around 11% to 20% of veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan reporting symptoms of PTSD.
Research indicates that the bond between humans and dogs can have profound benefits. Dogs can increase levels of oxytocin, the hormone associated with trust and emotional bonding. “This hormone helps in overcoming paranoia and enhances social behaviors,” noted Dr. Emily Foster, an expert in animal-assisted therapies. It’s not surprising that Lowe’s would welcome Bella into their workplace as her presence undoubtedly enhances Jake’s ability to serve customers.
This inspiring story sheds light on the importance of employing veterans and the positive impact that service animals can have on their lives. As advocates for more inclusive hiring practices, we hope to see more companies following in Lowe’s footsteps. It’s the least we can do to honor those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of service dogs and the journey of veterans, check out this insightful blog post here.
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In summary, Jake and Bella’s story at Lowe’s highlights the importance of supporting both veterans and their service dogs, showcasing how companies can make a difference in the lives of those who have served.