A veteran of the U.S. Army and Marine Corps, Hank Ford, attributes his life-saving experience to his service dog, a yellow Labrador named Tommy. In February 2024, Tommy alerted Ford to a serious medical issue—an irregular heartbeat—that could have led to a stroke. The incident highlights the significant role service dogs can play in the lives of veterans, particularly those grappling with conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Ford, who resides in Colorado, has openly discussed the profound impact Tommy has had on his life. He describes the transformation as “night and day,” stating, “Everybody that knows me, they can’t believe the difference in me.” This change has not only aided in his emotional recovery but has also instilled a renewed sense of confidence.
On that pivotal morning in February, Tommy deviated from his usual routine of waking Ford at 07:00. Instead, he began to nudge Ford persistently, hitting him in the chest rather than simply approaching his face. Recognizing that something was amiss, Ford sought medical attention, where doctors diagnosed him with a rapid, irregular heartbeat. They informed him that without Tommy’s intervention, he might not have woken up and could have suffered a massive stroke.
Ford emphasizes the importance of service dogs for veterans, many of whom may hesitate to seek such assistance due to societal perceptions. “A lot of veterans, they won’t get a dog because they think people look at you differently when you’re walking through a store,” he explained, underscoring the stigma that can accompany mental health issues. “But a dog makes a huge difference.”
Reflecting on his bond with Tommy, Ford remarked, “Everybody always talks about, you know, there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel. It was a dark spot. He turned the lights on.” This sentiment captures the essence of the profound connection that exists between service animals and their handlers, especially in the context of mental health recovery.
Ford’s experience serves as a powerful reminder of the critical role that service dogs can play in alerting their owners to medical emergencies, while also providing emotional support and companionship. As veterans like Ford continue to advocate for the inclusion of service dogs in their recovery processes, it becomes increasingly clear that these animals are not just pets—they are life-saving partners.
