What is the story about?
What's Happening?
Audie, formerly the Buffalo Sabres team dog, has transitioned into a service animal for a veteran named DuFrane. After undergoing extensive training at the Niagara County Correctional Facility, Audie has been equipped to assist DuFrane in managing anxiety through pressure therapy. This involves Audie applying physical pressure to help calm DuFrane during panic attacks. The program, supported by various sponsors including Purina, is described as life-changing for veterans, providing them with companionship and emotional support.
Why It's Important?
The transformation of Audie into a service animal highlights the significant impact such programs can have on veterans dealing with anxiety and other mental health challenges. By providing emotional support and companionship, service animals like Audie can improve the quality of life for veterans, helping them navigate daily activities with reduced anxiety. This initiative also underscores the value of rehabilitation programs within correctional facilities, where inmates contribute positively to society by training service animals.
What's Next?
Audie's training will continue under DuFrane's care, with ongoing support from Kreiger, who will visit twice a year to ensure the bond between Audie and DuFrane remains strong. The program's success may encourage further collaboration between correctional facilities and veteran support organizations, potentially expanding the availability of service animals to more veterans in need.
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