Service dogs put to the test for veteran PTSD relief

NCT ID NCT05900479

Ongoing Symptom relief Sponsor: University of Arizona Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at whether trained service dogs can help reduce PTSD symptoms in military veterans. 150 veterans who already qualified for a service dog are randomly assigned to receive one or to a waitlist. Researchers track their PTSD severity, depression, and overall well-being over 15 months to see if the dogs make a real difference.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: trained service dog
What this could lead to: If it works, this could show that service dogs are a helpful addition to standard PTSD treatments for veterans.
What could go wrong: This is a relatively small trial (150 people) and results may not apply to all veterans. The study is not yet complete, so benefits are not confirmed.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

combat disorder Human-Animal Bond post-traumatic stress disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANIMAL-HUMAN BONDING COMBAT STRESS DISORDERS STRESS DISORDERS, POST-TRAUMATIC

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Arizona

Tucson, Arizona, 85719, United States

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