In Texas, a remarkable story has emerged involving a veteran and his service dog, showcasing the profound bond between them. After serving three deployments and suffering multiple knee injuries, former Air Force member Jake Thompson faced the challenge of finding a job that would accommodate both his needs and those of his loyal service dog, Bella. Fortunately, Lowe’s was willing to hire them both.
“We were in the process of interviewing candidates for an open position when Jake applied. He brought Bella along to the interview,” said Mark Roberts, the manager at the local Lowe’s. Now, dressed in their matching uniforms, Jake and Bella work together in the Abilene store, assisting customers with their needs. Bella’s friendly demeanor has made them a hit among shoppers. One satisfied customer, Lisa Adams, shared a photo of the duo on her social media, praising Lowe’s for hiring both the veteran and his service dog. “I love my Abilene Lowe’s! This is a veteran who needed his service dog to work, and they hired them BOTH!” she wrote.
For Jake, returning to work has been a significant relief. “I can’t just sit at home doing nothing,” he expressed. The duo has been employed part-time for two months now. Having been together for a decade, they are currently training another service dog to help others in need. “Instead of relying on medication, I have Bella by my side,” explained Jake. The role of emotional support animals is crucial for those living with disabilities, particularly veterans who often face challenges such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Understanding PTSD and the Role of Service Animals
PTSD can develop after experiencing traumatic events, a common reality for many veterans. Research indicates that approximately 7 to 8 out of every 100 Americans will experience PTSD at some point in their lives, with veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan reporting rates between 11 and 20%. The companionship of dogs can significantly alleviate symptoms, as bonding with them increases oxytocin levels. “Oxytocin fosters trust and helps with interpreting emotions, counteracting the effects of PTSD,” said Dr. Sarah Williams, a psychologist specializing in veterans’ mental health. It’s heartening to see companies like Lowe’s embrace the importance of service animals in the workplace, and we hope more organizations will follow their example in supporting disabled veterans.
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Conclusion
In summary, Jake and Bella’s story is an inspiring reminder of the power of companionship and support in overcoming life’s challenges. Their presence at Lowe’s not only enriches the workplace but also highlights the importance of integrating service animals into various environments.