What makes a service dog a lifeline for veterans and first responders?
What makes a service dog a lifeline for veterans and first responders?
A lot of people assume service dogs are only for physical disabilities, but for trauma survivors, the right dog can change daily life in powerful, practical ways.
In this episode, Amy Castro is joined by Joe Gionti, CEO of K9 Heroes 4 Heroes, to share how these dogs are trained and matched to support veterans and first responders living with PTSD, trauma, and physical injuries, and why the right match matters as much as the training.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
• How service dogs are trained to support the specific needs of veterans and first responders
• Why the bond between dog and handler is a core part of the healing process
• How you can support K9 Heroes 4 Heroes, or apply for a dog if you or someone you love needs one
SUPPORT K9 HEROES 4 HEROES
Fundraiser: go.eventgroovefundraising.com/benno
Social Media: [@K9H4H on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn]
SHOUTOUT:
American K9 Dynamics
P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk in this episode. That was our original name—don’t worry, you’re in the right place.
Expert Pet Advice for busy pet parents!
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Pet care gets crazy when you're facing behavior issues, rising costs, and confusing pet advice. You need real pet parenting solutions, pet behavior help, and pet budgeting tips you can use every day.
Each week you'll hear pet parenting advice plus expert guidance on dog and cat behavior, dog training, nutrition, stress-free vet visits, and routines that make life easier. We'll help you manage puppy biting, cat aggression, separation anxiety and cat anxiety, emergency vet decisions, and show you how to stay ahead of issues that create stress for pets and their pet parents.
No fluff, no guilt, just practical pet care advice and pet cost hacks to save money, avoid pet parent guilt, and enjoy life with pets.
Follow to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying your pets again.
Contact: Amy@petparenthotline.com
©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro
