Pearson Engineering lends a paw to Veterans with Dogs

Veterans with Dogs specialises in the training of dogs to become loyal and dependable helpers, and in the partnering of those dogs with those who need it. Quite often, the beneficiaries of the organisation suffer with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and experience terrible flashbacks and nightmares.

The assistance dogs are trained to help their partners to recognise the early signs of distress and in doing so, help with emotional regulation and ‘grounding’ to bring someone who is suffering back to the present moment.

Ferris, the canine ambassador for Veterans with Dogs, visited Pearson Engineering in February to give a demonstration of his colleague’s work. His partner, Bryan Maddams, a volunteer fundraiser for the organisation, allowed Ferris to explore his surroundings before subtly showing an example of a ‘tell’ such as shaking hands. Ferris immediately detected the example of distress and arrived at Bryan’s side.

Richard Beatson, Business Development Director at Pearson Engineering said “Having seen first hand a small example of the support that these assistance dogs can give, we are really proud to have the opportunity to support Veterans with Dogs. We hope that whatever support we provide can give those who suffer for their service some comfort”.

Bryan Maddams went on to share “”As a small charity the support that we get from industry really helps Veterans with Dogs, and we are so grateful to Pearson for their ongoing support.  It is also important that we are able to promote our charity, especially in the defence industry where there is a high proportion of veterans in the workforce. These visits are how we can let veterans know that we are there if needed.  Thank you, Pearson Engineering!”