Life‑changing assistance dogs for veterans living with mental health injuries.
Veterans With Dogs is the UK’s leading charity dedicated to providing highly trained assistance dogs to former and current members of the British Armed Forces who are living with mental health conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and related injuries. Their work transforms lives, restores independence, and offers hope to those rebuilding their wellbeing after service.
As part of our commitment to the Armed Forces community in Devon, the Royal British Legion is proud to support this exceptional organisation — including sponsoring our very own assistance dog, Devon, named in honour of the county we serve.
Their Mission
Veterans With Dogs pairs veterans with expertly trained assistance dogs through their evidence‑led PALS™ (Partner Animal Life Skills) programme.
This programme focuses on building practical life skills for both the veteran and the dog, supporting daily living, emotional regulation, and confidence in public spaces.
The charity’s approach is grounded in research, lived experience, and long‑term partnership support — ensuring each veteran‑dog team receives ongoing guidance and welfare oversight.
What Is the PALS™ Programme?
The PALS™ curriculum is designed specifically for veterans with service‑related mental health conditions.
It focuses on:
- Calm routines and emotional grounding
- Confident public access and mobility
- Practical support for daily tasks
- Long‑term partnership development
PALS™ is not a replacement for clinical care — it complements existing treatment plans and supports recovery through structured training and ongoing support.
Our Local Commitment: Dog “Devon”
With the support of Devon County, we are proud to have sponsored our own Veterans With Dogs trainee — Dog Devon.
This sponsorship reflects our shared commitment to supporting veterans across the county and ensuring that those living with mental health injuries have access to life‑changing assistance.
Dog Devon represents:
- Our county’s pride
- Our community’s generosity
- Our ongoing dedication to veteran wellbeing
As Devon progresses through training, they will eventually be partnered with a veteran whose life will be transformed by their support.
The Impact
Research and long‑term follow‑up with veteran‑dog partnerships show significant improvements in daily life, including:
- Reduced PTSD symptoms, including fewer flashbacks and episodes of overwhelming anxiety
- Increased confidence in leaving the house, using public transport, and engaging socially
- Improved sleep and emotional regulation
- Renewed sense of purpose, identity, and hope
These changes reflect the profound effect an assistance dog can have on a veteran’s wellbeing and independence.
Based in Devon, Supporting Veterans Nationwide
Veterans With Dogs is headquartered in Exeter, Devon, and supports veterans from Land’s End to John o’ Groats, ensuring that help is available wherever it is needed.
Learn More
Visit Veterans With Dogs to explore their programmes, research, and ways to get involved:
https://veteranswithdogs.org.uk/
