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This Veteran’s Got His Service Dog On the Job, Thanks to Lowe’s
In a heartwarming story from Texas, a veteran named Jake Thompson and his service dog Bella have teamed up to work at a local Lowe’s. After serving three deployments and sustaining knee injuries that led to his retirement from the military, Jake found himself in need of a job. However, he also required a role that would allow him to bring Bella along, his faithful service companion. Lucky for them, a nearby Lowe’s had just the opportunity they were looking for.
“During the hiring process, we were interviewing applicants, and Jake came in with Bella by his side,” said Mike Johnson, the store manager, in a chat with a local news outlet. Decked out in their matching vests, Jake and Bella have become a beloved duo at the Abilene hardware store, assisting customers in finding what they need. Bella, with her natural charm, has made quite an impression. One customer even shared a photo of them on social media, exclaiming, “Kudos to Lowe’s for hiring not just a veteran but his service dog too!”
Both Jake and Bella are thrilled about the new chapter in their lives. After two months of part-time work, Jake expressed his relief at getting back into the workforce. “I can’t just sit around at home,” he noted. The pair has spent a decade together and are now in the process of training another service dog. “Instead of relying on medications, I have Bella,” Jake explained, highlighting the crucial role that emotional support animals play for individuals with disabilities, particularly veterans dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder.
Understanding PTSD and the Role of Service Animals
PTSD can emerge after experiencing trauma, something that veterans know all too well. Statistics reveal that approximately 7 to 8 out of every 100 individuals in the U.S. will face PTSD at some point in their lives. For veterans, the numbers are even more staggering, with 11 to 20% reporting such experiences after serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. It’s clear that furry friends like Bella can be lifesavers, fostering connections that lead to increased levels of oxytocin—often referred to as the “trust hormone.” This is significant because oxytocin helps alleviate some of the symptoms associated with PTSD.
It’s wonderful to see companies like Lowe’s paving the way, allowing Jake to bring Bella to work, enhancing both their lives. Here’s hoping more businesses will follow suit and create opportunities for disabled veterans. They’ve given so much for our country, and it’s high time we give back.
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In summary, Jake Thompson and his service dog Bella have found a welcoming workplace at Lowe’s in Texas, where they can thrive together. Their story shines a light on the importance of supporting veterans and the positive impact of service animals in their lives.